Published in the March 2013 issue of North of 68, by Teresa Carey…
Spring is on its way and many of us have been fantasizing about what to plant in our gardens this year. For those who enjoy using their imagination, why not try planting a faery garden? It’s a sure fire way to add enchantment to your home or yard, and you don’t need a lot of space or money.
You can create a miniature faery garden for your porch or deck using things you already have at the back of your cupboard or garage. Old pots and chipped bowls make fine vessels for small plants. If you happen to have an old drawer or crate, try a medium sized faery garden for your deck, or tucked away in a quiet spot in your yard.
Start by drawing out a plan on paper. Plot out pathways, sitting areas and living quarters, then gather your treasures and collect stones–some for drainage at the bottom of your planters, and others to create pathways and alcoves.
Coloured aquarium gravel would make a pretty cobblestone sidewalk. Twigs lined up closely could serve as a bridge over a pond. Perhaps make a little faery house from an old tea pot, or build a tiny hut or teepee from branches.
Faeries tend to like vibrant colours and natural materials, but anything that is lovingly chosen will do, since faeries are very aware of the motives of humans.
If you are enlisting the help of children, ask them if they have any old toys they want to incorporate into the garden. Even a faery would enjoy a pet, regardless of whether it’s plastic. Barbie dolls and action figures might be welcomed into a faery family, although humans must be more circumspect as faeries are quite private.
Faeries like an orderly, joy-filled life. They are reputed to love sweet smelling flowers. However, avoid planting St. John’s Wort, Rue or Yarrow. These are said to be anti-faery herbs. Try mosses, pansies, Lobelia or Lily of the Valley instead. Use smaller plants if you are building the garden in a container. You might even consider a faery-themed herb garden.
Faeries are known to like quiet, private spots and are grateful for a bowl of clean water, which they use to wash their children. So, if you have a small bowl to spare, inset it into the soil and replenish it daily.
Finally, make little signs from popsicle sticks or an old piece of barn wood, directing the way through Faery Land.
Remember, always treat faeries kindly. They are apt to return the favour.
