No matter how much space you have for a relaxing outdoor area, a Japanese garden theme is an
excellent choice. For centuries the people of Japan have used these areas for meditation and reflection. Today, gardens are an integral part of their culture that has begun to take root in the West.
Each garden uses each of the elements in order to create a sense of natural asymmetry. From water to rocks, each one is presented in a manner to harmonize with the other elements. Additional elements include trees, flowers, bamboo and sand.
Not all gardens will utilize every one of these in the design. For instance, the Japanese garden theme that focuses on rocks and sand doesn’t use water. Instead, the raked sand symbolizes water while the rocks represent mountains. The use of symbols is involved in all types of Japanese gardens.
The use of color should be minimal, chosen only to enhance the surrounding greenery. In order to break up the visual presentation of your plant selections, focus on choosing different shades, textures and leaf shapes. These should be placed in aesthetically pleasing arrangements that allow each plant to contribute to the overall design.
Though rock gardens use symbolized water, most other garden themes utilize real water to create a relaxing atmosphere. Waterfalls provide soothing sounds while koi add a new dimension to ponds. Use appropriate elements and colors to balance the water effectively.
Bamboo is popular for Japanese themed gardens in several different ways. First of all, you can grow some along the borders of your garden to create a perimeter that your neighbors can’t see through. Alternatively, you can use basic bamboo fencing to create a barrier and enclose your garden.
An attractive entrance to your Zen garden will make it more inviting and help mentally prepare you for the peace and calm that await as you meditate and relax. Bamboo gate doors and/or an attractive arbor made from natural woods are a great place to begin.
Winding paths are very popular in Japanese gardens. Instead of being able to view everything from one vantage point, visiting the garden is a stroll through the unexpected. Even if you know the plants that are lying beyond the next bend, it helps you to see them with new eyes each time.
If you don’t want to use sand, you might be searching for the best ground cover to blend with your garden. Moss is an excellent choice that has been used by gardeners around the world. Because it doesn’t stand up well to traffic, make sure that you place flat stones along the path for folks to walk on.
The modern world is so hectic and full of demands that you need to carve a space for yourself to relax and unwind. A Japanese garden will allow you to meditate and get in touch with nature without leaving your own property! Use these suggestions and check out several garden designs to create a personalized Zen garden that you can appreciate for years to come!
Zen Garden
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9