5 Flowers to Plant That the Scent will Provide you with Calm

In the hustle and bustle of modern day life, our gardens can provide us with some real tranquility. It’s essential to our wellbeing, particularly at a time where more and more of us are struggling with mental health conditions.

The likes of depression and anxiety are at all time highs, while more people are seeking out private drug treatment than ever before as a result of the likes of the opioid crisis and rising levels of alcohol abuse. That means it’s more important than ever before to look after our mental health, and gardens can certainly help do that.

The stimulation of the senses play a big part in that and in gardens you’ve not only got the sights of lush greenery and flowers, but also the beautiful scents too, many of which are proven to be calming.

But what are the most calming plants and flowers out there that will boost your mood and help improve your mental health?

Lavender

Lavender is a classic choice for promoting relaxation. Its heavenly scent has been used for centuries to calm nerves and encourage sleep. This hardy perennial produces lovely purple spikes of flowers and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. Plant lavender near windows or pathways where you can easily brush against its foliage to release its calming aroma. You can also dry the flowers to make sachets or potpourri to enjoy its fragrance indoors.

Jasmine

Jasmine is renowned for its sweet and exotic fragrance, which is particularly intense in the evening. The scent of jasmine is often associated with serenity and is known to reduce stress and anxiety. This climbing vine produces delicate white or yellow flowers and prefers a warm, sunny spot with well-drained soil. Train jasmine to climb trellises or pergolas near outdoor seating areas where you can fully appreciate its enchanting perfume.

Rose

Roses are not only admired for their beauty but also for their diverse range of fragrances. Some rose varieties, such as Damask roses or old-fashioned scented roses like ‘Gertrude Jekyll’, exude a rich, rosy scent that is incredibly calming. Roses thrive in sunny locations with fertile soil. Plant them in borders or containers near seating areas where you can enjoy their lovely blooms and delightful aroma.

Chamomile

Chamomile is well-known for its mild apple-like scent, which has relaxing properties that can help ease tension and promote better sleep. This dainty herb produces small, daisy-like flowers and is easy to grow in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Chamomile can be planted in garden beds or containers. Harvest the flowers to make soothing chamomile tea or use them in herbal baths for a calming experience.

Gardenia

Gardenias are prized for their exquisite white flowers and intoxicating fragrance. The scent of gardenias is often described as creamy and floral, evoking a sense of luxury and tranquillity. These evergreen shrubs prefer partial shade and consistently moist, well-drained soil. Plant gardenias near windows or doorways where you can catch their heavenly scent. In colder climates, gardenias can be grown indoors in containers.