January 2008 Newsletter

GARDEN WALKS

We have been told, by our parents, doctors and countless articles—that exercise is good for us. It helps to break down the hormones and other chemicals that build up during periods of intense stress. The Government and others tell us that we should exercise 30 minutes a day and this can seem like a chore to some. Well, why not make it fun? Walking is one of the simple and easiest forms of exercise. And we all like to socialize. Then, why not take walks with a friend? Schedule a time to meet, in the morning before the day gets started, at lunch or at the end of the day when things are winding down. And—plan to walk in the park, through the garden or any other nicely landscaped area that provides a positive distraction. After all, it has been proven that nature can take our mind off of our ills. This is a recipe for exercise for the new year. Take once a day, everyday!

“Autumn arrives in the early morning, but spring at the close of a winter day.”
-- Elizabeth Bowen

PLANT TREES

Did you know that planting trees near a building can help to reduce summer air conditioning costs by as much as 50% or more? Trees not only keep people cooler, they can cool a building too. Now is the time to plant.

IMPROVED MOOD

OK. We know that looking at flowers can change a person’s attitude and improve one’s mood. People who made point of looking at flowers in the morning have indicated that they felt better and had more energy throughout the day. So, why not take a few simple steps to make this happen for your self and possibly others? Try this:

• Place a hanging basket outside your window or a flowering plant on your desk
  
• Arrange for flowers to be sent to yourself once a month
  
• Practice random acts of sending flowers to others
  
• Plant more flowers in your garden
  
• Pick wildflowers
  
• Place a container of flowers outside the front door
  

VIOLETS

African violets are an easy plant to take care of. I remember my grandmother tending to hers every Saturday morning—feeding and watering them. They did surprisingly well during the cold months. They need bright, indirect light and places away from drafts and heating vents. The soil should be well drained and kept slightly moist. In return work this minimal care, Violets will provide a colorful display of flowers throughout the year.

WINTER SHRUBS

The winter landscape can appear somewhat monotone in colors. It doesn’t have to be that way. You can add plants that provide color during the winter months. Winterberry Holly has berries that stand out in the distance. Red Twig and Yellow Twig Dogwood have vibrant colored branches. Coral Bark Maples have multicolored bark. The exfoliating bark of the River Birch stands out in the garden. And Witch Hazel blooms in January. These are a few ideas of a few of the many trees and shrubs that can be added to the garden for an interesting winter look.

A GOOD BOOK

This is the time of year to settle in with a good book, of the gardening kind. Thinking about what to add is always fun. Keep in mind layers. Does it attract nature into the garden, offer seasonal interest throughout the year, is useful in cooking or crafts, provide fragrance and is non-invasive? Few plants can answer all of these questions. However, take a close look and see if the plant you order has several functions.

BLOGS

We are entering into another realm of the web by starting a Blog. You can find it here at http://gardening-for-wellness.blogspot.com -- take a look and see what you think. It will offer a way to keep in touch more frequently and provide additional information on gardens.

Green is great in 2008!

ABOUT US

Nancy Carman, MA, CMC—Editor. For further information on how to design, develop and care for Therapeutic Gardens and outdoor environments, call 609-953-5881,
email us at jpcarman1@comcast.net or visit www.designforgenerations.com.