Sense of touch in a garden

Small spaces are seldom considered worthy of a garden. Yet in today's urban areas, plot sizes and consequently garden spaces are increasingly getting smaller.

While we often give consideration to sight, we tend to underestimate the influence of other senses.

Touch is one of the most important yet least considered senses in garden design. No other sense elicits intimacy with the garden greater than the sense of touch.

Use plants that can tolerate being touched.

Put them in places where users will easily touch and feel their texture either intentionally or by accident.

Places like raised beds next to walkways and hanging baskets are good starting points.

Also, vary hardscape textures from soft polished timber railings or floors to coarse stonework for a retaining wall.

Create sunny and shady areas for temperature contrast.