Sound Garden How natural and ambient sounds can contribute to our enjoyment of outdoor spaces.
Outdoor spaces are living, breathing environments where sound can play a major role, writes Helen Young.
Each of our senses contributes to the ways we experience and enjoy gardens. Hearing is probably the least explored of these, but there are plenty of ways to create a pleasing ‘surround sound’ effect.
WHEN THE WIND BLOWS
Wind creates many different sounds in the garden, depending on the plants involved and strength of air currents. Think about whispering sighs of breezes moving through a grove of she-oaks or casuarinas, or the audible ‘shush’ of ornamental grasses (1). Bamboo leaves rustle in light gusts and the plant’s tall canes creak as they sway. In stronger winds, the movement of high tree canopies signals a change in the weather. For greater effect, add wind chimes. Those with metal tubes make melodious tones (the best are musically tuned), but you may prefer the tinkle of glass or bells, or the soft clacking of bamboo.
WATER MUSIC
Moving water (main image) can add a splash or gurgle that’s not only soothing but masks other, intrusive sounds. Ponds in larger gardens can be fitted with a waterfall, but small spaces can also have watery sound effects, courtesy of a fountain in a large pot or a wall-mounted water feature. Today’s choice of plug-andplay features is better than ever, including low-voltage and solar-powered options. If young children are about, choose a child-safe design. Ponds usually attract frogs, which will add to the soundscape, but beware placing close to a bedroom window as frogs can be very loud at night.
SWEET TWEETS
Birds are an obvious source of sound in the garden, and learning to distinguish the warbling, chirruping or singing of various species is fun for children and adults. To attract birdlife, provide a clean source of water and food such as nectar-rich flowers, seed heads and fruits. Different food sources will attract different species. You can add bird feeders and houses, too (2). And those with chooks will know just how comforting their clucking can be.
MUSIC TO YOUR EARS
Outdoor speakers have come a long way, so we can experience our favourite music outside without loss of quality. Some speakers are disguised as flowerpots or rocks (3), others mounted under eaves. Ensure the equipment is weatherproof and suitable for outdoor use. You could use wireless speakers outside temporarily, but don’t forget to bring them in.
CRUNCH TIME
Other sounds to consider include the crunch of gravel or pebbles underfoot on driveways and paths (4), the buzz of bees, the summer drone of cicadas and the rustle of fallen autumn leaves. And one of the best? Children’s laughter.