Things being what they are, many of us will being spending more of our time in our own back yards this summer. We're planning "staycations", entertaining at home, and enjoying low cost weekends in town. Here's an idea that will make your outdoor living at home extra special. Plant a fragrant garden.

Think how wonderful it will be to sit on your patio in the evening, or stroll through your garden in the morning, inhaling the sweet and spicy fragrances of everything growing around you. We often think of our gardens only in visual terms, but scent adds an extra richness and luxury to your landscape. So here are some things to consider when planning your own fragrant garden.

Location

Plant your fragrant plants where you will most enjoy them- close to or on your patio, porch or deck, or along a garden path. If possible, shelter them from winds that will whisk the scent away. Planting in a courtyard or against a wall will keep the fragrance close.

Keep in mind that the leaves of many plants are fragrant when touched or crushed. Consider planting them at the edge of walkways, where contact will release the aroma. Some can even be planted on paths, and will survive light foot traffic, delighting passersby with scent when stepped on.

Time of day

If you use your deck or patio in the evenings, look for plants that release their fragrance late in the day. If you enjoy your morning coffee near an open window, or like spending your days outside, plant accordingly.

Season

With some research and planning, your garden can be rich with fragrance almost year round. There are flowers, shrubs, herbs and trees that will keep your garden aromatic through the seasons.

Nighttime Scent

• night scented stock
  
• Nicotiana
  
• Four o’clocks
  
• Moonflower vine
  

Fall & Winter Fragrance

• Nicotiana
  
• Four o’clocks
  
• Moonflower vine
  
• Autumn Clematis
  
• Evergreens such as fir, spruce, juniper

Fragrant herbs. Most herbs are fragrant. Here are a few I love:

• Lavender
• Lemon Balm
  
• Mints
  
• Scented Geraniums

Of course, I've left out some obvious fragrant delights like Lilac, Roses, and others. I knew you'd remember them on your own! What are some of your favorite fragrant plants? Share!