Japanese Gardens

Japanese gardens have become increasingly popular over recent years, with their soothing contemplative atmosphere achieved through the use of natural materials like wooden benches, raked sand and carefully placed rocks -- as well as running streams and quiet pools.

Along with the popularity, demand for plants to fit in Japanese gardens has grown. It's thus much easier to find bonsai plants from commercial growers than ever before. You'll usually find trained, mature plants which will do well but make sure your climate is similar to that in which the bonsai was created. Local nursery trees which are pot-conditioned are an option as well and can be worked on as a bonsai immediately. Look for bonsai characteristics such as branches low on the trunk.

Restraint is the keyword to Japanese gardening, which means you don't need many plants unless you wish to do so. The hard landscaping and uncluttered look provides a semblance of space, even if you're working with a smaller lot.

Some of the traditional elements found in Japanese gardens (in addition to water, which can be real or symbolic, and arrangements of rocks and stones) include a stone lantern, a wall or hedge enclosure and stepping stones.

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