6 Tips to Create Your Own Life-Sized Zen Garden
In today’s hectic world, finding some time for rest and relaxation can be challenging, to say the least. It comes as no surprise then, that many of us do whatever we can to inject some peace and serenity into our lives, one of the most popular being the addition of those mini zen gardens you see on office desks all over the world. A mini zen garden is a simple meditation device that allows you to clear your head and soothe your mind. Whether you are at home or at the office, it is an accessory that can help to chase stress away and improve your concentration.
However, what if we told you that you could take the principle of that mini zen garden you have on your desk and turn it into a life-sized reality? The truth is, with a little ingenuity and effort, curating the ultimate backyard haven for rejuvenation is entirely possible. Today, we share 6 tips on how you can create your very own life-sized zen garden in the comfort of your home backyard, so read on to find out more!
1. Consider Including A Water Feature
It is no secret that zen gardens and water go hand in hand, but the good news is that you don’t have to use a lot of water to create the effect you are going for. Even if you have limited space in your backyard, there are a variety of water features available in all sizes and styles to suit your individual needs. The sound of moving water can create a highly soothing environment that is conducive to meditation, relaxation or simply enjoying a warm cup of tea in the afternoon. As such, building a low water zen garden with the help of a beautiful water feature creates the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day. Oh, and don’t forget to position a bench, seat or chair nearby to take in the spectacular sounds and view.
2. Choose The Perfect Plants
According to Japanese culture, plants represent mountains or islands in the garden. A zen garden can benefit a lot from trees, shrubs and plants as they provide a sanctuary canopy, as well as shade. In this environment, they also represent long life. Trees typically found in a zen garden include Japanese maples, black pines and red pines. When it comes to flowers and foliage, popular options include Azaleas, Camellias, Hydrangeas and Hostas, in addition to moss and bamboo. Ornamental Japanese cherry blossoms are also one of the most gorgeous and relaxing blooms, however if you source a Japanese cherry tree, consider adding plants that offer the same colour scheme for the ultimate Zen effect.
Learn more about the perfect plants to add to your backyard zen garden in this article.
3. Incorporate Some Rocks and Pebbles
The symbolism of the pebbles, rocks and stones in a zen garden is one of the most important design elements to consider when turning your backyard into the ultimate haven for relaxation. In Japanese culture, rocks and pebbles represent the human desire for eternity and the ever-enduring elements in nature. A simple way to create pockets of interest in your zen garden is to arrange miniature rockeries alongside your path, lawn, or gravelled space. Be sure to choose complementary tones and add a mixture of textures for visual appeal that mirrors the natural environment. Your zen garden could also contain a simple bridge or path made of rock or stone. These features add a sense of distance, and you can use them as a focal point to aid meditation and relaxation.
Top Tip: Depending on the size of your backyard, you may consider introducing a mixture of different types of rocks, ranging from upright vertical stones, horizontal stones and arching stones. Try different layouts to see what natural elements the design calls to mind. As a general rule, larger rocks, which act as sculptural elements, should be installed first since they are the heaviest material and are the primary focus in your space. Find out more about the best rock and gravel to use in your zen garden here.
4. Create A Pathway
Adding a simple pathway to your backyard zen garden is not only a great way to lead visitors into the space, but can also aid in making your garden more accessible to maintain. This is a really simple project, depending of course on how large you want your path to be. To start off, we recommend creating a basic pathway between your plants or including a small one from your backdoor to the area where your Zen garden stops. Before installing your pathway, remember to clear away any plants, grass or weeds that are currently growing in the space. Then don’t forget to rake the soil so that it’s flat, and fairly level.
Traditionally, the Japanese use large stepping stones in a sand or gravel path as a common way of creating walkways. However, if you are lacking in space or resources, another great option would be to install some simple pavers made of concrete, limestone or marble that come in various sizes, shapes and designs.
Learn more about the meaning of different Japanese garden paths and stone meanings here.
5. Opt For An Archway
If you are looking to take your garden to the next level and add extra height and interest to your space, nothing beats a simple garden archway. Also commonly referred to as a Japanese Torii Gate, this element is often used as a physical or symbolic entryway to shrines and temples in Japan. Torii garden archways are also often painted red in line with the old belief that the colour wards off evil spirits. Regardless of whether you choose a bright red stunner or something a little more subdued, the addition of a garden archway is a lovely way to frame your beautiful plants or other focal points in the garden, and works especially well for narrow plots when combined with a simple stepping stone pathway.
There are many different styles of archways commercially available for you to choose from, with the most popular materials including metal, wood and composite vinyl. If you’re a crafty person at heart, you could even try your hand at creating a DIY archway that you can customise to your individual style and preference.
6. Introduce A Few Planting Pillars
Last but not least, sometimes, the smallest (and most inexpensive) of changes can make all the difference to your space. Traditionally, Japanese gardens are void of planters, pots and decorative garden figurines. However, if you are looking to add another element of height and dimension to your space, we highly recommend introducing a few planting pillars to your backyard garden. Putting plants into inexpensive tall pillars will add an instant touch of zen to even the simplest of backyards, and most importantly, this is a project you can complete in a matter of hours.
If you build the pillars or columns yourself – complete with solar lighting – you can fully customise your pillars to your space, all while saving a ton of money at the same time. We absolutely love the idea of nestling a bunch of gorgeous succulents or cacti into homemade pillars, to create a clean yet relaxing landscape that you can enjoy with your friends and family.
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And there you have it – 6 tips that will equip you with all the knowledge you need to build the ultimate life-sized zen garden in your very own backyard. Even if you don’t use your space for active meditation, a zen garden is the perfect, low-maintenance addition that offers you a bubble away from the daily stresses and anxieties of life. And who wouldn’t want that?
Do you have some of your own tips for creating the ultimate zen garden sanctuary? Be sure to leave your ideas and thoughts in the comments section below!
