Color in the garden may contribute more than just physical properties. A positive well-being may be easier to ascertain when we are surrounded by certain colors.

Practitioners of color therapy believe we are drawn to an individual color because it is one that we need to include more in our lives.

What better place is there for the establishment of a beneficial balance of color than in the garden?

The color wheel is the ideal place to begin understanding the therapeutic virtues of color.

Planting two-thirds of your garden with your favorite color and the rest in its complementary color is a basic recipe.

Of course, if your predominant color is red, you will have automatically added its complementary color of green with the foliage.

If you want to add a little of your own brand of color therapy to your garden, keep some of these colors and their associated benefits in mind:

Green, a natural color related to growth, promotes change.

Peace and harmony exist when green is present.

Red is an excellent energizer that removes negativity and strengthens your will. Red also aids in keeping one alert.

Violet is a rich color that promotes feelings of inner calmness and self worth.

Creative inspiration and insight are also improved with violet, along with greater knowledge, spirituality, dignity and wealth.

Yellow symbolizes the power of the sun and provides inspirational and intellectual stimulation.

This color also promotes an agile mind, thought precision and absorption of pertinent material.

Exposure to orange stimulates a warm, welcome feeling.

Opportunity and enthusiasm for life is represented by this joyful color.

Blue is a relaxing color that supplies a feeling of calmness and tranquility and has the ability to contribute to a clearer mind and soul. Blue is an ideal color for relieving stress.

Add some seating, preferably in shade during summer, so that it will be a comfortable place to spend time.

Make sure that the seating area is close to the plants for the full benefit.

Keep in mind that depending on the season, it may be more difficult to plant in certain colors. In fall and winter, many plants are available for a fiery orange garden, although violet may be a more difficult color to locate.

Don’t forget to include bark, berries, foliage, furniture, pots and garden accessories when planning your color therapy landscape.

Experiment with this technique and most of all have fun with it. Color your garden with hues that promote a positive effect on your emotional and physical well-being. After all, it may really work.

Rely on your instincts, relax and have a great time!

Traci Maier writes a weekly gardening column. She can be reached at ratmaier@bellsouth.net.