Special Gardens are a Treat for All Five Senses

Scented plants, textured sculptures, trickling water and audio “talk” stations are some of the features of one of Wickham Park’s newest attractions - it's Sensory Garden.

Spanning more than three-quarters of one acre, the garden, with its six sections, is the largest of its kind in New England and one of the largest in the country.

Although geared toward the handicapped to accommodate “the senses,” the garden appeals to everyone, including children, who benefit by the developmental and educational opportunities it offers. To the eyes, there is color; to the touch, there are soft lamb’s ear plants, ornate railings and thorns; to the ears, there are wind chimes, a model railroad and water sculptures; and to the nose, there is a smelling “game” and oh-so many scented plants.

With benches throughout, one can sit and take in the warmth of the sun, or relax and cool off in the shade. With bees buzzing and butterflies fluttering, Wickham Park’s Sensory Garden is certainly a feast for all the senses.

The Sensory Garden opened in May of 2010 with a price tag of roughly $300,000. Staff at the park planned and built a majority of the garden over a two-year period, with a large amount of donated materials. Dozens of different organizations and individuals, including advocates for those with disabilities, local home improvement companies and several garden clubs, also contributed their expertise as well as monetary support.  

To learn more about the Sensory Garden and ways to help Wickham Park realize the full potential of the facility, visit www.wickhampark.org.

Wickham Park is located at 1329 West Middle Turnpike in Manchester and features many attractions, including a Cabin Garden, English Garden, Italian Shrine, Lotus Garden, Oriental Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Wetlands Garden, an Aviary, Nature Center, picnic store (weekends only), playgrounds, sports facilities and panoramic views of Hartford and surrounding areas.