Landscape Design and Landscaping by Martin Palma

In landscape design, scents play just as important a role as visual elements. Properly selected aromatic plants can not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also create a unique atmosphere of coziness and harmony. In this blog, Ecolandscape Studio shares recommendations on how to create a fragrant garden that will delight you not only visually but also aromatically. We will also explain how to choose plants and care for them so that your garden is filled with pleasant scents all year round.

Why Scents Matter in Landscape Design?

Scents can significantly alter the perception of space. They can create an atmosphere of peace and harmony, improve mood, and reduce stress. For example, the scent of lavender is known for its relaxing effect, while jasmine helps alleviate tension and set a romantic mood. Plant fragrances influence not only emotional states but also physical ones. Scientific studies have shown that scents can help reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality.

Martin Palma, founder and CEO of Ecolandscape Studio, always emphasizes the importance of incorporating scents in garden design. He says, «Aromas in landscape design are an essential part of creating harmony. They not only enhance the perception of the garden but also make the space alive and layered.» With his extensive experience in the field, Martin believes that the right choice of aromatic plants can transform a space, filling it with a unique atmosphere.

How to Choose Aromatic Plants for Your Garden

When selecting aromatic plants for your garden, it’s important to consider not only their appearance but also the scent they will emit. Lavender, for example, is a classic choice for creating a fragrant garden. It has a relaxing effect, improves sleep, helps relieve stress, and attracts beneficial insects while repelling pests. Lavender is perfect for relaxation zones such as terraces, benches, or gazebos.

Jasmine is another wonderful plant to consider, especially in areas where you often relax. Its strong and sweet fragrance is particularly noticeable in the evening, creating a romantic ambiance. Moreover, jasmine is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing properties.

Lemon balm, with its citrus scent, is an excellent choice for those wanting to create a fresh and peaceful atmosphere in the garden. This fragrance helps improve concentration, reduce stress, and stimulate mental activity, making it perfect for creating a relaxation or meditation space.

Where to Place Aromatic Plants?

The location of aromatic plants in the garden plays a key role in how their scents are released. To maximize the scent, it’s important to place them in areas where you frequently spend time. For example, place them near benches, terraces, or gazebos to enjoy their fragrance while resting. Also, remember that scents spread well in areas with good air circulation, so choosing sunny spots is essential for the full release of their fragrance.

Additionally, creating aromatic «corridors» along garden paths or walkways will enhance the effect. Designing fragrant zones with different plants along pathways will not only add visual variety but also allow you to enjoy the scents with every step.

How Do Plant Aromas Change Throughout the Seasons?

To ensure your garden is fragrant year-round, it’s important to consider the seasonality of the flowers. In spring and summer, you can enjoy the fragrances of plants such as jasmine, petunias, and mint. These plants will bring lightness and freshness to your garden, and their scents will intensify with the arrival of warm weather.

In the fall, consider adding plants like camellias, which maintain their fragrance even in cooler months. These plants will brighten up your garden with vibrant colors and a pleasant scent, creating a cozy atmosphere during the transitional period.

In winter, enrich your garden with the aromas of evergreen trees, such as spruce or pine. These plants will fill your garden with freshness and coolness, providing a pleasant scent even on chilly days. Thus, by carefully choosing plants, you can create a fragrant garden that will delight you throughout the year.

Caring for Aromatic Plants

To ensure your aromatic plants delight you not only visually but also with their scent, they need proper care. Plants like lavender and jasmine do not tolerate excessive moisture, so good soil drainage is essential. It’s important to water the plants moderately to prevent root rot.

Pruning also plays an important role. Removing wilted flowers and shoots promotes new blooming and strengthens the fragrances. For example, jasmine and lavender require regular pruning to maintain shape and stimulate new flowers.

Additionally, using organic fertilizers will support the healthy development of the plants and help unlock their full fragrance potential.

How Does Water Affect Aromas?

Water features and fountains are not only beautiful elements of landscape design but also excellent tools for enhancing plant fragrances. Water helps spread aromas, increasing their intensity. Adding water features to your garden will not only enhance the fragrances but also create an atmosphere of freshness and tranquility.

Martin Palma adds that water elements can not only enhance scents but also improve the overall atmosphere of the garden. «Water in the garden helps release the fragrances of plants and creates a space for rest and harmony, where all the elements merge into a cohesive composition.»


Creating a fragrant garden is not just about selecting plants; it’s an entire process that involves proper placement, care, and attention to detail. Aromatic plants can not only beautify your space but also create an environment that will delight you throughout the year. It’s important to choose plants that will harmonize with the other elements of your garden and enhance its overall atmosphere.

At Ecolandscape Studio, we believe that creating a fragrant garden is key to designing not only a beautiful but also a functional space. We are always ready to help you design a garden that will delight you not only visually but also with its scents, creating an atmosphere of coziness and tranquility.