Add Fragrant Scents to Your Home Garden

A Rose ( Rosa). Likely you've heard Shakespeare's famous quotation, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet." The rose is perhaps the plant most renowned for scent; however, some people are frightened away from growing them because of their persnickety reputation. A less temperamental type of rose is the shrub rose (zones 3-9). They're true repeat bloomers and the easiest roses to grow. Look for the Knockout shrub rose in cherry red, "Carefree Sunshine" shrub rose in yellow, "Secret" Hybrid Tea rose, or French Collection Star Roses (so called because they're named after famous people).

Double Tuberoses ( Polianthes tuberosa). The tuberose is a super fragrant bulb that is hardy in warmer regions (zones 7-10), but is grown as an annual in colder climates. In colder regions, the bulb can be dug up for winter and replanted in warmer weather. The tuberose grows 2-3 feet, so it's perfect for gardens where tall background plants are needed. The abundant waxy flowers and intense smell make these common plants in floral arrangements and in perfumes. Plant after danger of frost has passed.

Lily of the Valley ( Convallaria keiskei). Known for long, glossy green leaves; tiny bell-shaped flowers; and delightful fragrance, the lily of the valley can be grown in most climates (zones 3-9). In really cold climates, it should be dug up for the winter and replanted. This plant is a shade plant that can be used as a ground cover in low-traffic areas. These plants are low maintenance.

Primrose ( Primula). Last month we discussed growing primroses indoors, but this is also a delightful outdoor plant. If your garden store has a variety, you'll be able to choose from a selection of colors to complement the enticing scent. Some of the varieties to look for are P. malacoides, P. obconica, P. sinensis, and P. X polyantha. Hardiness varies by variety, so check with your local garden center, but some varieties are reported to be hardy down to zone 2.

Pansy ( Viola x wittrockiana). Pansies (zones 1-11) are not only hardy in cooler temperatures, they also delight you with a perky, smiling face and a delicate fragrance. In cooler climates, they'll bloom twice a year, but really hot temperatures usually are not their favorite. Look for the Bingo mix.

Butterfly Bush ( Buddleja [Or Buddleia] davidii). Often referred to as the summer lilac, the butterfly bush (zones 5-9) is by far one of the easiest plants to manage. It's available in blue, pink, purple, white, and yellow, and you'll be rewarded with wonderful honey-scented flowers. Another reward is that it attracts butterflies, which explains the name.

Summersweet Clethra ( Clethraceae Clethra alnifolia). Summersweet Clethra (zones 4-9) boasts perfect white, delightfully fragrant flowers that last for 4-6 weeks. It grows well in sun or part shade and damp or dry soils, and even tolerates salt spray, which is why it's sometimes referred to as the sport utility of the plant world. Look for the Hummingbird—an excellent dwarf variety.

Lilacs ( Syringa sp.). The common lilac (zones 3-7) is one of the most well-known and loved fragrant shrubs. There are many lilacs available, but a very manageable variety is the Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri 'Palibin'). It grows to about 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, so it's also more compact than more typical varieties. Also look for Tinkerbell—it's a new variety with pink blossoms and a sweet fragrance.

Viburnum ( Viburnum) (zones 4-8). Judd Viburnum ( Viburnum x juddi) has a spicy scent that can literally overwhelm the yard. Mohawk Viburnum ( Viburnum x burkwoodii 'Mohawk') has beautiful glossy leaves, clove fragrance, and abundant showy fruit.

Gardenia ( Gardenia jasminoides) . The exceedingly fragrant flowers of the gardenia (zones 3-5[6]) make it a great plant to have near the patio or deck. It also has handsome foliage. Look for these cultivars: "First Love®" and "Kleim's Hardy," to name a couple.

Herbs
An herb garden is also a delightful way to add some fragrance to your garden. And, of course, you can use some herbs in cooking and decorating. Some herbs to try include Lavender, Basil, Rosemary, Mint (including chocolate), and Thyme. And again, a visit to the garden store is a delightful way to see what varieties are available.

Virtual Gardening and Inspiration
Please note that when you click on the links to visit these sites, you will be leaving Home Made Simple.

The American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta has listings for gardens in the United States, Canada, England, and other locales. It also has beautiful pictures of plants and gardens that are sure to lift spirits on gloomy days and inspire your own gardening. Favorites were the University of British Columbia Botanical Garden, Vancouver, B.C., Canada and the VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Further Reading
WEBSITES:
www.plantamerica.com
You can personalize information based on your location, search for plants in the plant encyclopedia, browse, and print care sheets at this website.

www.buckeyegardening.com
This site is primarily for Midwest gardeners, but the beautiful pictures, extensive database, tips, and Q&A section make it worthwhile for all to check out.

BOOK:
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr