Mastering the Look of a Japanese Garden
by
Sarah Clark, All About Lawns Columnist
Japanese gardening has long been embraced by western gardeners.
Living in a world that is increasingly chaotic, the Japanese garden -
with its emphasis on serenity, contemplation, and quiet - has become
increasingly appealing. To seriously consider
whether to cultivate a Japanese garden or just incorporate some of its
elements in your existing garden, you'll first need to learn some of
its defining characteristics. With its focus on
simplicity, it comes as little surprise that Japanese gardening relies
on just a few natural elements: sand, stone, and plants. During the
15th century Zen Buddhism ushered in one of the most common styles of
Japanese garden: the dry landscape garden.
Dry Landscape or "Flat" Garden Dry landscape gardens consist
of sand, stone, and moss. Usually they take the form of a flat,
geometric surface. The sand, or gravel, is raked into ripples to
represent water. On top of the sand one or two vertical stones are
placed at a distance from each other. Rocks are typically covered in
moss. The simplicity of such gardens is intentional as their minimalist
features are thought to promote a clear mind.
Strolling Garden As its name suggests, strolling gardens are
designed for slow, relaxing walks that promote tranquillity. Such
gardens carry visitors along narrow footpaths that wind through
moss-covered landscapes that change with every few steps. You'll
encounter different arrangements of rocks, bushes, and wooded areas.
Water also plays an important role in strolling gardens - you'll hear
and see water falls and streams. A moon bridge will lead you over a
pond reflecting the surrounding foliage. As with all Japanese gardens,
the strolling garden is designed to promote relaxation.
Tea Garden Tea gardens provide a special place for enjoying a
much beloved tradition of the Japanese: tea drinking. These small tea
houses, which are open and airy, often overlook a pond surrounded by
large trees and other plants. Tea gardens are small, often consisting
of no more than 300 square yards.
Japanese Gardening Tips If you want to stay true to the
Japanese gardening tradition, stay away from too much color. Rich hues
of green dominate most Japanese gardens along with patches of white
gravel and stones. Also, Japanese gardens - unlike classical French
gardens - endeavour to embrace nature in its pristine form. Try to
maintain a natural look and you'll likely be closer to aping the
tranquil feeling enjoyed in an authentic Japanese garden.
About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in the Washington metro area.
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