Easter renewal in the garden

Easter has a different meaning for everyone. For children, it’s about chocolate eggs, coloured candies and Easter bonnet competitions. For many, it’s the freedom of the long weekend. But for us Catholics, it’s a holy and precious time of renewal and quiet transformation, as we reflect on the death and Resurrection of our Lord. We attend Holy Thursday Mass, participate in the Good Friday activities and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Easter Sunday.

For me, in addition to attending Mass, one important component of preparing is sprucing my garden. In keeping with my annual tradition, this year my visit to the garden shop came a bit earlier, with specific plants in mind.

I’ve always loved plumbago for its quiet elegance. Its soft purple-blue blooms rest gently against any greenery. It’s the kind of plant that reminds us that not everything needs to be bold to be impactful. I bought a few and transplanted them into circular concrete pots for my front yard.

Plumbago plants are ideal for borders or pathways, creating a sense of calm that feels perfectly in tune with the spirit of Easter.

To add more colour, the blooming bougainvillea naturally caught my attention.  Its vibrant bursts of colour, whether pink, purple, red or white, bring an instant sense of celebration.

Bougainvillea does not require perfect conditions to thrive, only the right balance of light, space and a little care. One of its most remarkable qualities is its versatility: it can climb gracefully along a fence, spill dramatically over a wall or be shaped into a hedge. I potted mine into large containers, using a mix of two different colours in each.  To complete my Easter garden, I added two arborvitae plants. Often referred to as the “tree of life,” arborvitae carries both practical and symbolic value. Its dense, rich green foliage creates a natural screen, offering privacy and shelter while maintaining a refined appearance.

Whether planted as a hedge, border or a stand-alone feature, it introduces a sense of intention to any space. While arborvitae can grow as either a tree or shrub depending on the species, I potted mine with the intention of using them as a decorative shrub. As we prepare our homes, tend to our gardens and reflect within our hearts, may this Easter bring a renewed sense of peace, hope and quiet joy to you and your families.

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