Are you planning a major landscaping project this summer? Maybe you’ve moved into a new home or just want to give your backyard a makeover. One of the more popular garden design styles is the Japanese inspired garden, and for good reason. The appeal of the Japanese style garden is that it fosters a feeling of seclusion, relaxation and calmness, giving you a peaceful retreat from the hectic pace and stress of the everyday. Another wonderful aspect of this style is its overall versatility; it works in both small and large spaces. There are a number of elements you can pick and choose from when landscaping, here are a few that you may consider.
image via bhg
Rock Steady
Japanese rock gardens are a traditional mode of garden design that often use a combination of rocks and plants to create a space of balance using natural elements. For a minimalist zen garden you may choose to use primarily rocks, or if you want to get closer to mimicking nature you can create lush plantscapes that feature islands of rock.
Rustic Planter from Greentea Design
Green Appeal
Evergreens, ornamental grasses, bonsai trees and full-sized trees are often found in Japanese gardens. Try if you can to pick a variety of plants that will last throughout the year so your garden will be as beautiful in the fall as it is in the spring. Rustic planters like the one from Greentea pictured above are also a way to add some natural beauty and interest to your landscaping.
Let it Flow
The traditional Japanese garden often includes a water feature such as a fountain with basin or a pond. The sound of running water helps create a soothing atmosphere. A koi pond is also a way to add a peaceful ambience, but in order to keep the fish happy and the pond beautiful a great deal of maintenance and care is required. Here are some useful tips on maintaining a koi pond.
Architecturally Sound
A teahouse is often the central building in a traditional garden, but Japanese inspired architecture can be incorporated in many different ways: lanterns, bridges, benches, gates and pagodas. Pay attention to how lines of architectural pieces work with the plants you’ve chosen
image via Portland Japanese Garden
There are a number of Japanese gardens all over the world that are an excellent source of inspiration, so you may choose to start your garden planning after visiting a few large scale gardens. I’ve always wanted to go to the Portland Japanese Garden pictured above.
Happy Friday Everyone!
