How to Create a Memory Garden

Losing a loved one is a difficult part of life but it is important and comforting to remember the special memories that you once shared. Creating a memory garden will help you feel closer to those you lost and create a tribute to the one you loved for the rest of his/her friends and family members to heal. To begin a memory garden, find a private place or choose a location that has meaning. Remember to plant from your heart.

Things to Consider When Creating Your Garden:

• Plant their favorite flowers or choose flowers that you loved or has special significance and plant those.  
• Plant during their favorite season and choose flowers and plants that are in season at that time. For example, if they loved spring, plant bulbs.
• Select flowers in colors that he/she loved.   
• Choose flowers with their favorite fragrances or certain scents they loved. For example, if they loved the smell of lavender, include a lavender plant in the garden.
• Select flowers and plants with special meanings. For example, pink carnations mean “I’ll never forget you” and yellow roses represent friendship.
• Include statues and remembrance gifts throughout the garden. If they loved dogs, include a small statue of their favorite breed.
• Add a small plaque describing what is in the garden and its significance, or simply put their favorite phrase or poem.
• If possible, try and include a bench in the area. This way, friends and family have a place to sit and reflect on special times that were shared.