Linda Mazar" />

Memorial Gardens Revisited

Oct 1, 2001 - © Linda Mazar

In the light of recent events, revisiting the memorial gardens theme seems appropriate. To my readers, I am so sorry if you have lost loved ones in these recent events. This has been a very difficult time for many families. It can be especially hard for the children who may not fully understand what all has happened or what affect it will have on their young lives.

Many families have been left with little to hang on to as a memorial of their loved one. In these situations, creating a memorial can be. An idea for this is to plant a special garden in memory of the loved ones who have passed on. Planning the garden, digging the soil, and planting the garden can be a comforting experience for a family. It can be part of the healing process. And year after year, the garden will be a gentle memory of the one who has gone on.

A memorial garden does not have to be a large garden. It can range in size from a single perennial flower planted in a special pot, to a garden bed with many flowers and shrubs, or even more. It all depends on the space you have available and the amount of time you have to devote to it.

For families that have little time and little help, a simple idea may be the best. Consider planting a tree that has some significance to your family or loved one. Be sure you plant a variety that does well in your area. Maybe the variety has part of their name in it or they always liked the way the tree looked in the fall or something. If you do not have room for a big tree, a small flowering crab apple or other ornamental tree would be nice. And if a tree isn't an option, perhaps a favorite bush or even a favorite flower in a special pot, a favorite spot, or a place of prominence would work. If it is a potted plant, it can be taken with the family if they move at a future date.

If a flower bed is preferred, consider choosing flowers, bushes and small trees that have some significance either with their name, because they were favored, or for color - whatever might make them a special reminder. Choose an area to put them that will be easily seen from your home, a place you pass everyday, or a place that may have a special significance for your family. If you find any garden ornaments that recall your loved one, you can add them as well.

The copyright of the article Memorial Gardens Revisited in Gardening with Children is owned by Linda Mazar. Permission to republish Memorial Gardens Revisited in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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