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A garden retreat needs to be outside and away from the busy world where you can relax and gather your thoughts in peace, quiet, and solitude. In a sense, any garden can provide retreat for the world-weary, nerve-jangled gardener. But some backyard retreats are more soothing than others. Having a simple and undemanding landscaping and decor can encourage you to relax, not jump up to attend to garden chores or errant weeds. Plants with relaxing colors of blue, green, and pastels also help set the mood.

You needn’t turn your entire garden to a Zen-like space (but you could). A special corner or tucked-away nook will do. Privacy, protection, and isolation are key elements of a good retreat. Think about adding a fence or wall to block out sights and, equally importantly, sounds. Less-solid screens in the shape of trellises or tall and dense plantings of trees and shrubs or even a gathering of potted plants can also enclose a space. The idea is to make a garden room accessible yet insulated. For summertime relaxation, consider a shady retreat.

Within the walls of your retreat, make a comfortable place to sit or even recline. A full table-and-chairs set is appropriate if you plan to share the space and enjoy meals or quiet cups of tea here. A hammock or a chaise lounge invites reading and relaxing.

Now consider the furnishings — namely, plants and decor:

 Choose plants that don’t require fussing. For shade, try impatiens or ferns; for sun, marigolds or zinnias are good choices. Stick to a simple or even monochromatic color scheme, one that’s soothing to the eye.

 Consider a water element, such as a small, tubbed water garden or fountain. The inherently soothing sight and sound of water can help block out distracting noises. Units now on the market work on solar energy and don’t require electric hookups (see Chapter 20 for water garden ideas).

 Personalize the space. A judiciously employed ornament, such as a hummingbird feeder, a large clay urn, a garden statue of St. Fiacre (the patron saint of gardeners), Buddha, or an interesting rock can further the mood. Use simple ornaments that have meaning to you and are in keeping with your theme.