SOUNDS OF SILENCE

Every sanctuary needs a soundtrack, whether it’s to help you relax, create the sense of being immersed in nature or, let’s be honest, to block out the sound of the neighbours mowing their lawn.

Running water is wonderfully soothing. You don’t need a huge, fully stocked fishpond – a small water feature hooked up to a fountain will do the job. Add some solar lighting or floating candles and it will be your go-to spot from sun-up to sundown.

Wildlife, and birdsong in particular, adds a wonderfully calming dimension so make sure to plant nature-attracting shrubs and flowers around your space. Honeysuckle, with its scented flowers, attracts insects (which in turn attract birds); sunflowers provide food for finches, tits and sparrows and can be grown in pots on a balcony or smaller garden; and what’s nicer than the gentle hum of buzzing bees on a hot day? Entice them into your garden with traditional cottage flowers such as daisies, foxgloves, lavender and evening primrose.

Plants Create natural sound by planting grasses that rustle in the wind and trees with leaves that pick up even the slightest breeze. Briza maxima (greater quaking grass) shivers delightfully as does Miscanthus oligostachyus with its bamboo-like leaves. Aspen, birch and maple trees produce lovely sound too.

Wind chimes They may not be everyone’s choice, but wind chimes hanging from trees or bushes can add a lovely melody to your garden – bamboo chimes have mellow, muted notes, while glass chimes tinkle pleasantly (and reflect the sunlight too).

If you’re going for a metal chime, copper and brass have a softer sound than those made from cheaper materials.

Online offerings A range of streaming services have ready-made playlists for summer garden listening, ranging from relaxing jazz to waterfall and birdsong sounds. Just remember your earphones, for a completely immersive experience.