Herb-Wellbeing ‘dry’ Garden

Creating a dedicated Herb ‘Dry’ Garden/Well being area within the garden with three goals in mind:
1. A place for both members of the garden and visitors to be able to sit down and relax. We recognise the very positive impact on mental and physical wellbeing that the whole community garden can have and would like the herb garden to be the mental wellbeing focal point. The rest of the garden is a busy and industrious place and we feel it is also important to provide a ‘sanctuary space’ at the heart of our garden too.

2. A place to explore the sensory benefits of herbs. We hope to create an exchange of ideas around all aspects of herbs: health, diet/cooking, biodiversity and gardening (see Jekka’s Herbs for inspiration)

3. Adapting what we plant to suit our changing climate - many herbs are drought tolerant. LCKG’s rainwater harvesting project is ongoing, but we are located in the driest region of the UK and must be mindful of the types of plants we grow and how best to support a healthy soil and biodiversity..

We have planned an attractive, sensory area with sections of timber raised beds, at different heights, to allow everyone to access and experience the textures, tastes, and aromas of the herbs. It will be the one part of the garden where there is no need to bend down to tend plants and pick things, which will appeal to a few members! The sections of plantings will be linked by wood chip paths. We would like to buy benches but will be making some ourselves; the benches will be carefully positioned to allow members to sit and chat but also enjoy quiet contemplation.
(Approx costs £3-6K)