Creating memorial gardens is a wonderful way to honor a deceased loved one. It also offers a lovely place for people to go and remember a lost friend or family member. However, it will also require careful planning and some thought.
Consider the life of the person being memorialized and ask yourself a few questions about their favorite things. Consider how much space is available and how it will be used. Gardens can be as large or as small as space and funds will allow.
Consider a place for people to sit. A nice bench or variety of benches will make an excellent choice. Including the favorite flowers and colors in this garden is a great way to remind people of their loved one. Most people associate certain smells with fond memories. If "grandma" for example, always had roses on the kitchen table, roses are sure to remind Grandma's loved ones of her. Including them in the garden is truly a wonderful idea.
Always plant the largest plants towards the back and the shortest to the front, as with any garden. This will create a professional and pleasant place that is attractive and inviting.
Consider whether running water is available. If it is not, consider plants that require less watering. This is a good way to make it less likely to lose plants from neglect. Allow visitors to take clippings from flowering bushes and trees that remind them of the person being memorialized. This will allow them to keep of memory of their loved in their own home.
Visit the living memorial often and enjoy the accomplishment, both of the creation and the life it honors. Encourage others to visit and help with the planting. This type of a memorial is one that gives back to those who appreciate what the past gifts to the future.
