Japanese landscaping is soothing and beautiful. Many people are considering adding elements of Japanese design to their garden to add a peaceful serenity. Most do not know where to begin, however.
You need to understand the basics of Japanese design in their landscaping. Balance is key, with a blending of stone, water and plants in a way that looks like it was made by nature, not you. There should be no straight lines or angles in your garden. Curves are the lines found in nature.
One of the most challenging parts of creating a Japanese garden is the balance. There should not be too many plants, yet at the same time you want to capture the changing of the seasons with plants that will accent each season with blossoms, color or form. The entire garden needs to be in the proper scale. For example, if you have ten acres to work with, you can use large trees, boulders and water features. If your garden is only ten feet by twenty feet, everything should be scaled down. You want to envision your garden like a view from a window, so it is enjoyable as a whole as well as when you are wandering through it.
Everything in Japanese landscaping is symbolic. A stone may be a mountain. A tiny brook may be a rushing river. Nature is reproduced in captivity. Water brings movement, though it can be represented by a flow of small stones as well. If you have the space, take a look at Japanese water gardens. If you can fit one of those elements in without crowding, it will add to the beauty of your garden. Water can also be incorporated through the installation of a small bamboo fountain as well.
If you study Japanese landscaping, you will notice a great variety of plants that can be used. It will take some research on your part to find those that grow in your area and that are available. You also want to keep in mind what they look like in each season. Leaf variety and texture is important.
Even more important than the plants are the stones. Rocks are the backbone of the Japanese garden. Each stone is carefully chosen for its shape and significance. They can be used as stepping stones, in streams or waterfalls, or to represent mountains or islands.
There are many types of Japanese gardens to choose from. All of them incorporate the aforementioned elements. You'll have to decide if you want a tea garden, a flat open space garden or a hill and pond garden. Sometimes the decision is made for you by the limitations of your space.
Decorations may also be strategically placed in a Japanese garden. A stone pagoda or a metal lantern may add a little personalization. Other items that may suit your design may be a chime, a gong or a rain chain. Rain chains help direct the water from your roof down to the ground, creating a wonderful watery melody not unlike a babbling brook.
As you can see, there is a lot to be understood when making a Japanese garden. Take a little time and learn as you go. Before you know it, your garden will reflect peace and inner serenity.
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