According to the Merriam -Webster dictionary, a legacy garden is a greenspace dedicated to an ancestor, predecessor, or an event in the past. A peace garden is similar in that it is dedicated to an event or individual(s). However, it also serves as a gathering place for peace and reflection. Both types of gardens may be either private or public.
Why Create a Legacy or Peace Garden?
First, creating a garden specifically to commemorate loved ones or special events is a thoughtful and beautiful way to show respect for their memory, sacrifice, or legacy. Second, public peace gardens are wonderful gathering places for healing and bringing people together. They help us to consider not only our immediate environment, but also, how we can better care for each other and our planet. A single hectare of mixed forest space with gardens removes over 16 tons of polluted particulate air matter, increases absorption of greenhouse gases, and improves our air quality and our health.
Types of Legacy and Peace Gardens
The possibilities are limitless, with some reflecting the use of only a single tree or plant while others incorporate elaborate designs and extensive plantings over hundreds of acres. Here are a few ideas:
Legacy and peace gardens for schools – What a wonderful way to teach children about nature and the environment while also possibly commemorating a person or event. For example, low-maintenance or native gardens could be planted in early spring and cared for with minimal fuss by student or family volunteers over the summer. As the garden blossoms, the community would also witness the beauty of additional birds, butterflies, bumblebees, and beneficial insects in their neighborhood. Once autumn arrives and school is back in session, incoming classes and their families could then reap the benefits of the garden’s harvest.
Legacy and peace gardens for communities – These types of gardens vary widely also and could include small city parks to large patches of corporate/private land. Some public gardens may also include vegetable or community gardens which support reliable food sources for individuals, families, and food banks.
Private legacy and peace gardens – You do not need acres of land, tons of money, or extensive gardening and plant knowledge to create a legacy or peace garden. Sometimes small and simple is best. What is important is acknowledging the emotion, intent, and purpose which motivated you to create the garden in the first place. Create the greenspace to honor the love, respect, and special memories you have for the person or event you wish to commemorate. Did they love roses? Many varieties now are low maintenance and ever-blooming. Did they love to walk along nature trails? Perhaps a special tree or bush. Did the event take place in a specific location or season? Then consider plants which look their best for that place or time of year.
Need further ideas? There are over 150 registered peace gardens around the world you can visit for peace, relaxation, and great gardening inspiration. I’ve included a link here for their listing: https://peace.maripo.com/p_gardens.htm
