Are you thinking about having your own Zen garden so you can have a spot in your yard where you can just sit idly and commune with nature? Zen gardens have become so popular in the U.S. that you can find one in a lot of upscale and local communities. Their appeal comes from their simplistic appearance, nature-inspired elements, and a relaxing atmosphere that is almost surreal.
The good news is that there are many reliable landscapers in Minneapolis, MN and other locations who can help you install your very own Zen garden. It’s nor a complicated project but it would require a degree of expertise that only professional landscaper can offer. In the hands of the experts, you can have a stunning Zen garden installed to your specifications so you can begin enjoying its calming and therapeutic benefits.
Here are five Zen garden ideas that you should keep in mind:
Rake it, Ralph
No Zen garden would be complete without the characteristic raked sand. Now, your name may not be Ralph but the idea here is to ensure that this element is present in your set-up. Raked sand is not only placed there for aesthetic considerations but also to achieve a relaxing aura that helps people enjoy improved concentration and focus. If you’re wondering how that’s possible, just look at some photos of a Zen garden and see the patterns that simulate waves and ripples, all of which helps train the mind to focus on them.
Mind your plants
If you’re gunning for an authentic Japanese Zen garden look, then you should realize that you can’t use just any plants available. If you want your own Zen garden to look every inch an authentic one, then be ready to source specific plants used by the Japanese for their gardens. These include the following:
- Azalea
- Bamboo
- Japanese Camellia
- Cherry
- Hydrangea
- Iris
- Lotus
- Hosta
Consider adding a pavilion
A pavilion made of wood and bamboo would be a perfect focal point in your Zen garden. Consider placing it in the middle of your garden and in a raised position so you can have the best vantage view possible of your entire Zen garden. It won’t hurt if you’ll have some coffee or tea with your loved ones and friends as you enjoy quiet moments and bask in the relaxing atmosphere of your garden.
Include a karetaki
Karetaki is Japanese for “dry waterfall” and is a salient feature of any Zen garden. You can achieve this effect by placing some small boulders and rocks, driftwood, and sand that is carefully raked to simulate flowing water. You’ll surely be amazed at the sheer subtle beauty of such an element.
Fence out the garden
The whole idea behind a Zen garden is to achieve peace and quiet and, in a sense, being detached from the outside world. As such, you should install a perimeter fencing to enclose the entire garden and provide a sense of exclusivity and privacy to it. You may use wood or bamboo for the fencing and never forget to include a gate for that total secluded atmosphere.
Creating a great environment in your property is important to your health and well-being. Consider these great ideas to enjoy a Zen garden that is truly relaxing and awe-inspiring.
