Japanese garden landscaping is categorized into three types. The virgin and the most common is the Tsukiyama type, which means constructed mountain in English. A Tsukiyama inspired garden is somewhere a garden with contours and hills. It may and interject a pond or shaft with multifarious plants and shrubs. A typical Japanese stomping grounds or a temple may be erected on the grounds.

Major main feature of a Tsukiyama garden is that the entire place can be empitic from strategically placed vantage points.

The particular class of Japanese garden landscaping is called the Karensansui or dry prospect gardens. Gardens of this type are associated with humans who practice Zen Buddhism.

What makes this garden apart from other gardens is that it has onliest inadequate or no production at all. Instead, the main elements of a Karensansui garden are carefully arranged rocks and beige. The rocks generally express the Japanese islands. The fawn, which is raked in bill patterns, symbolizes the sea. The rock gardens of the Ryoanji and the Daitokuji temples are perfect examples of Karensansui.

Unlike a Tsukimaya garden, a Karensansui garden is to be viewed from a single, seated perspective.

Lastly, the query clique of Japanese garden landscaping is the Chaniwa. This type of garden dates back to the 14th century. This is not a garden in the undeniable sense of the consultation. Instead, this type of Japanese garden landscaping is characterized by a beautiful, carefully planned path fabricated out of stepping stones that lead to a affair room. This entertainment room is called Chaniwa, thus, the nomen of the garden. The Chaniwa besides has stone water basins where the guests can wash themselves so they could partake of a tea ceremony.

Apparently, the designer of the Chaniwa type of garden wants to invoke to his guests a feeling of peace, solitude and enlightenment with this design. Therefore, the Chaniwa garden is a perfect place for meditation. Usually, Chaniwa gardens are not open to the public.

It is worthwhile to see these types of Japanese gardens. By doing so, one will truly feel at peace with himself while having a glimpse with the unique Japanese culture.

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Koi fish ponds are the rage right now because of the aesthetic value and implied meaning of having pet Koi fish. A garden pond is not only good to look at, but Koi fish also mean friendship and love, and are even considered by others to be a symbol of good luck. Thus a Koi pond is not simply a decorative element in a garden, but it also stands for something greater. Regardless of the breed, these gentle fish exude a sense of calm and relaxation, another thing that makes Koi fish ponds a must in many landscapes, especially ones designed with a distinct Zen feel to them. Especially with particular breeds of Koi that have special markings, a garden pond can serve as a good water complement and element to your greens and browns. A Koi pond is not really that hard to maintain besides the usual rigors required in fish care, as Koi are very hardy and can adapt to different atmospheres and surroundings.

A Brief History

Koi are basically a breed or type of carp, purposely bred for pets and not for human consumption. The etymology of the term is simple enough – it means “carp” in Japanese. The development of Koi, however, is not limited to the Japanese, as it also has its roots in China and various parts of East Asia. And a bit of trivia – it was the breeding of carp – Prussian carp, to be specific – that led to the emergence of gold fish. Carp breeding for color patterns is not a new thing, as China practiced this more than a thousand years ago. But it was through the Japanese that Koi breeding became prevalent – sometime in 1914, during an exposition in Tokyo. Before that though, some areas in Japan were specializing in Koi breeding, some as early as the 1820’s.

Care

One important point in maintaining a Koi pond is to keep the filter clean at all times, and regularly subject it to cleaning. As with all filters a Koi fish pond’s filter will accumulate dirt after a period of time, and especially with a big garden pond, even heavy-duty filters need to be regularly cleaned and checked for any damage or malfunctions. Having ammonia build-up in a tank or garden pond will eventually harm your fish, so be sure that does not happen. Summer is usually the most active time for Koi, as this is mating season, and they will also need more food, and must be fed 3-5 times a day. When a Koi is hungry, it surfaces repeatedly, so you should look out for signs like that to know when it’s feeding time. Germ-rich food is best, as it helps the fish have better digestion.

Koi are gentle pets that are both lucky and pretty to look at. It is no surprise that many people are taken with these multicoloured and gleaming fish that are considered to stand for love and friendship. They are a positive energy in every garden and landscape, and the addition of a Koi fish pond is sure to make your garden a much homier and relaxing place to be.

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Garden dcor is no different from home dcor but with numerous elements. Choose items like fences, trees, grass, walkway, bird feeder and flowers. Furniture is commonplace in garden dcor but it should be comprised of material that will withstand all kinds of weather. Obviously, don’t forget to hide your furniture during winter months if you live in a location that has winters.

Singular focus – one way to change your garden decor is to emphasize one part of the garden and build the rest around it. This can be accomplished by making a gazebo, a rose pillar or any statue or sculpture you fancy.

A sense of architecture – you can provide an architectural form and a sense of style to your garden decor by adding a bit of iron gate work, elegant metal topiary forms or concrete statuary to the garden. Simple garden ornaments and artful decor contribute tremendously to the aesthetic value of your outdoor living garden.

Adding water features – creating a waterfall or a fountain can add a lot of value to your garden decor. As a matter of fact, most Japanese gardens have a water feature. Those without water features have something that symbolizes water like grey gravel or sand. To be a little creative, transform your whole garden into a water garden.

Collect and scatter – after collecting different art and ornamentation for your garden decor, remember to scatter it all over the landscape. Some people place topiary or sculpture forms in distant small landscaped garden areas for positive viewing impact. Try and frame ornamental pieces of art with easy-growing shrubs and low-growing flowers.

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Temperature.

These trees ahould have a minimum temperature of between 6 – 10 C in the winter and summer temperatures of between 18 – 22 C. You can place these trees outdoor on a warm summers day.

Location.

The ideal location to place your tree is on a east facing window sill or a bright north is second best. It’s best not too place your tree on a southern or western facing window as this will cause rapid drying of the soil with the heat of the afternoon sun, so be vigilant during the summer months if you have to place your trees there.

Misting and Humidity.

Indoor trees should be misted at least once daily to compensate for the low humidity in homes. This is particulary important with winter heating. Avoid placing your Bonsai near a radiator, fire or hot air duct as no amount of misting will save your tree.
You can use a humidity tray to help your Bonsai stay moist. This is best done by placing some small pebbles (Aquarium gravel) on a tray and adding some water. Rest your Bonsai on the stones making sure its not sitting on the water. As the water evaporates, it will provide a more humid environment for your tree. Also remember that misting and humidity tray will not replace proper watering techniques.

Watering.

Before you water your tree it is best to leave the water standing in a container to reach room temperature. I tend to collect rain water or use filtered water. If you have a high lime cotent in your water dont use tap water on Azalea’s.

How do you know when to water?

Scratch or rub the surface of the soil. If the soil is wet leave it. if the soil is damp you can give some slight watering or soil misting and if it is dry, well it needs watering.

How to water?

The best method is to use a fine ‘rose spray watering can’ as you would use for watering seedlings. You can submerse your tree about once a month.

Do not over water your tree as you could drown the roots.

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Pond lighting is a way to catch subtle attention and really emphasize the existing beauty of your Japanese water garden, it also provides additional depth to your night views.

There are several types of submerged lights on the market, each one creating its own special effect, depending on how you position it. Most submerged lights come with dark colored casings so that the lights disappear into the darkness of the Japanese water garden. They can be set either to illuminate an area or a feature underwater or to shine up out of the water to illuminate a design element outside of the pond. Use underwater lighting for drama but use them sparingly.

Waterfall lights can add a dynamic effect to waterfalls and spillways when placed beneath or behind them, it brings a new dimension to your Japanese garden after dark.

Fountain lights either in white or in color, give a fantasy effect to a spray. Some come equipped with transparent wheels of several colors. Some light sets feature transformers that include built in timers to allow you to set the time period during which the lights remain on. Others are equipped with light sensing cells so that the lights go on at dusk and off at dawn.

Lanterns are another form of accent lighting that seem to fit in every Japanese water garden. They stand alone and are either wired for electricity or candle powered.

Much favored in Japanese gardens are, snow lanterns, or yukimidoro, these have a wide roof that collects snow, which is then illuminated by the light chamber below. In warmer seasons, the illuminated lantern casts an interesting mix of light and shadows on the water’s surface.

Here are some tips for your pond lighting:

1. Pond lighting works best in clear ponds.

2. Never light up the entire pond if you have fish. Fish need dark places in which to hide and feel safe. They also need darkness to regulate their body cycles.

3. You should position the dome or spotlights where you can easily conceal their cables and connecting wires.

4. You can conceal exposed cable and cords with wood chips, plants or other design elements.

Pond lighting with tasteful garden accents, creates an unbelievable ambiance and a unforgettable experience for your guests at your next party.
Pond lighting is also the best and only way to fully utilize and appreciate your Japanese water garden during the night time hours.

The joy of having your Japanese garden, stream, waterfall, and fountains lit up well into the night will help turn an everyday spectacular, landscaping feature into a magical, mystical, after-dark wonderland.

http://www.bonsai.ie/japanese-water-garden-and-light/

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With the recent burst of gardening enthusiasm sweeping the U.S., Japanese and other Asian-inspired gardens are among the most popular designs sprouting up in backyards everywhere. Picture a tranquil spot filled with lush ferns and cushiony moss, the soft trickle of running water, and ancient-looking miniature trees, and you’ll come to appreciate why Japanese-style gardens have been popular for thousands of years.

But what many people don’t realize is that Asian-inspired gardens can be among the least expensive and most environmentally friendly gardens to create and maintain. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Nature is the Nurture

Unlike many other landscape styles, Asian gardens are intended to replicate the natural environment. Asian gardens attempt to create the perfect natural setting; what you might see and experience by walking through the deep woods under perfect conditions. Most other types of gardens attempt to create an environment unlike any found in nature, with cascades of constantly flowering annuals, specialized specimen plants not native to the area, and adorned with manmade decorative objects. Because Asian-influenced gardens have their roots in nature, they can be far less expensive to create and care for than other garden styles.

Start with the Plants

Japanese gardens utilize perennials almost exclusively; that is, plants that live year after year, as opposed to annuals that need to be replaced each year. So each plant in your Japanese garden is an investment that should last for many years. Many plants found in Asian-inspired gardens (e.g. ferns, bamboo, irises, ornamental grasses, ground covers, etc.) are inexpensive to purchase and extremely prolific, creating more plants on their own or with a little help. While the plants listed above, for example, will spread naturally, you can also divide them with a spade from time to time and transplant the clumps around the garden to speed up the procreation process. Some plants, like bamboo, can be invasive, so plant and control them carefully. Most of the plants typically used in a Japanese garden require little if any man-supplied water, fertilizers, or pesticides.

Rocks of Ages

Asian-inspired gardens traditionally incorporate stones in various shapes and sizes as their primary ornamentation, again good news for the budget conscious gardener. Garden paths are often covered in pea gravel, a slightly more expensive alternative to wood mulch, but one that, unlike mulch, will last forever. A few well placed large stones, whether round and smooth to calm the inner soul or jagged and sharp to simulate miniature mountain peaks, are the focal point of many Japanese gardens, and can often be scavenged from construction sites or a friend’s yard (both with permission, of course). Beds of smaller smooth stones are sometimes used to conjure up the image of a dry stream bed, and beds of very fine gravel or sand can be raked into decorative patterns to create a type of Zen garden known as karesansui.

Just Add Water

While not every Japanese garden has a water feature, most do, as the calming effect of water is undeniable. While a goldfish pond filled with water lilies, lotus, and perhaps a small fountain is ideal and may be less costly than you think, even a small stone or ceramic basin of water in the garden provides a restful moment. Many gardening books contain instructions on how to build a simple water basin or fountain, including models constructed out of salvaged materials like old sinks, barrels or broken pots. Just add water and a couple of 20-cent goldfish from your local pet store, and feel the stress release.

Bonsai on a Budget

When many people think about Japanese gardens, they immediately think of finely sculpted miniature trees or bonsai. Either planted in ornamental pots or simply topiary specimens planted directly in the ground, a bonsai plant or two can really set off your Asian-inspired garden. While professionally cultivated bonsai can easily cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, with a little practice you can sculpt your own by starting with container-grown nursery plants, particularly those with twisted, old stems, like you find on sale at the end of the season at most nurseries. Thrift stores are a great source for used bonsai pots (thanks to hobbyists lacking in the green thumb department) and other containers suitable for bonsai.

So, if you have a limited budget but want to add some tranquility and beauty to your yard, consider an economical, eco-friendly, Asian-inspired garden.

With the recent burst of gardening enthusiasm sweeping the U.S., Japanese and other Asian-inspired gardens are among the most popular designs sprouting up in backyards everywhere. Picture a tranquil spot filled with lush ferns and cushiony moss, the soft trickle of running water, and ancient-looking miniature trees, and you’ll come to appreciate why Japanese-style gardens have been popular for thousands of years.

But what many people don’t realize is that Asian-inspired gardens can be among the least expensive and most environmentally friendly gardens to create and maintain. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Nature is the Nurture

Unlike many other landscape styles, Asian gardens are intended to replicate the natural environment. Asian gardens attempt to create the perfect natural setting; what you might see and experience by walking through the deep woods under perfect conditions. Most other types of gardens attempt to create an environment unlike any found in nature, with cascades of constantly flowering annuals, specialized specimen plants not native to the area, and adorned with manmade decorative objects. Because Asian-influenced gardens have their roots in nature, they can be far less expensive to create and care for than other garden styles.

Start with the Plants

Japanese gardens utilize perennials almost exclusively; that is, plants that live year after year, as opposed to annuals that need to be replaced each year. So each plant in your Japanese garden is an investment that should last for many years. Many plants found in Asian-inspired gardens (e.g. ferns, bamboo, irises, ornamental grasses, ground covers, etc.) are inexpensive to purchase and extremely prolific, creating more plants on their own or with a little help. While the plants listed above, for example, will spread naturally, you can also divide them with a spade from time to time and transplant the clumps around the garden to speed up the procreation process. Some plants, like bamboo, can be invasive, so plant and control them carefully. Most of the plants typically used in a Japanese garden require little if any man-supplied water, fertilizers, or pesticides.

Rocks of Ages

Asian-inspired gardens traditionally incorporate stones in various shapes and sizes as their primary ornamentation, again good news for the budget conscious gardener. Garden paths are often covered in pea gravel, a slightly more expensive alternative to wood mulch, but one that, unlike mulch, will last forever. A few well placed large stones, whether round and smooth to calm the inner soul or jagged and sharp to simulate miniature mountain peaks, are the focal point of many Japanese gardens, and can often be scavenged from construction sites or a friend’s yard (both with permission, of course). Beds of smaller smooth stones are sometimes used to conjure up the image of a dry stream bed, and beds of very fine gravel or sand can be raked into decorative patterns to create a type of Zen garden known as karesansui.

Just Add Water

While not every Japanese garden has a water feature, most do, as the calming effect of water is undeniable. While a goldfish pond filled with water lilies, lotus, and perhaps a small fountain is ideal and may be less costly than you think, even a small stone or ceramic basin of water in the garden provides a restful moment. Many gardening books contain instructions on how to build a simple water basin or fountain, including models constructed out of salvaged materials like old sinks, barrels or broken pots. Just add water and a couple of 20-cent goldfish from your local pet store, and feel the stress release.

Bonsai on a Budget

When many people think about Japanese gardens, they immediately think of finely sculpted miniature trees or bonsai. Either planted in ornamental pots or simply topiary specimens planted directly in the ground, a bonsai plant or two can really set off your Asian-inspired garden. While professionally cultivated bonsai can easily cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, with a little practice you can sculpt your own by starting with container-grown nursery plants, particularly those with twisted, old stems, like you find on sale at the end of the season at most nurseries. Thrift stores are a great source for used bonsai pots (thanks to hobbyists lacking in the green thumb department) and other containers suitable for bonsai.

So, if you have a limited budget but want to add some tranquility and beauty to your yard, consider an economical, eco-friendly, Asian-inspired garden.

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Contact: 01905 774907.

Open: tomorrow; Sept 6 (2pm-6pm). Also by appointment.

This 140ft x 40ft garden is a lesson in what can be done in a small space. High hedges, clad with clematis from the 100-plus varieties grown, obscure views of neighbouring houses. Borders are filled with an array of interesting plants, many rare. Sweeping curves of lawn and grassy paths disguise the plot’s size and lead from the main herbaceous and shrub borders to a woodland area where shade-loving plants thrive. The south-facing front garden is filled with drought-tolerant plants. Beautifully designed and planted to maximise the feeling of space and tranquillity.

2 23 Anglesey Road, Aldershot, Hants GU12 4RF

Contact: 01252 677623

Open: Wed Sept 23 (2pm-6pm). Also by appointment.

Set within a Thirties housing estate, three into one small garden does go; this garden is 28ft wide and of standard semi-detached format, with the house set back 12ft from the road. Mediterranean at the front, shady fernery down the side and urban jungle around the back. Trees, shrubs and bold perennials give a feeling of maturity and seclusion. Generous geometric beds house many unusual specimens.

3 Special Plants, near Cold Ashton, Somerset SN14 8LA

Contact 01225 891686; www.specialplants.net

Open: Thurs Aug 20; Thurs Sept 17; Thurs Oct 15 (11am-5pm).

Garden of well-known plantswoman Derry Watkins. This hillside, ¾-acre garden has stunning views. Many exotic plants and gravel gardens for borderline hardy plants. Black and white garden. Vegetable garden and orchard. Hot border. Lemon and lime bank. Plenty of late summer colour. Spring-fed ponds and bog garden. Woodland walk. The adjoining nursery is open until Oct.

4&5 Asmuns Hill Gardens, Hampstead Garden Suburb, London NW11 6ES

Open: Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5.30pm).

Two Arts & Crafts gardens in the Artisan’s Quarter of Hampstead Garden Suburb, these adjacent plots are lovely traditional cottage gardens and a true breath of country style in the urban jungle. No 23 Asmuns Hill is a charming 150ft x 30ft garden, with borders crammed with traditional herbaceous perennials and annuals. In August, the dahlias are spectacular. Potted acers, some over 30 years old, line the path to the greenhouse, past old apple trees laden with fruit. No 25 has densely planted beds brimming with colour and texture, mature trees and a York stone terrace which enhances the Arts & Crafts house. A grassy track leads past a vegetable parterre to a secret orchard.

6 Four Seasons, Walsall, Staffordshire, WS4 2EN

Contact: www.fourseasonsgarden.co.uk

Open: today; Sat Aug 8 (2pm-5.30pm); Sun Oct 25 (2pm-5pm).

A south-facing, third-of-an-acre, suburban garden for all seasons: 200 acers, 350 azaleas, clipped conifers, shrubs provide a backdrop for spring bulbs, perennials, summer bedding. Many rooms and themes. Jungle, oriental pagoda, water features. In August the perennials are dramatic in the lower garden. Youngsters also enjoy the stone animals, chimes and bridges.

7 40 Byfleet Road, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3JX

Contact Lyn Davis & J Coxe.

Open: Sun 6 Sept (11am-5pm).

An oasis in an urban setting. This 250ft-long garden has individual rooms, each with its own interest. Herbaceous plants mingle with mature shrubs and trees. Kitchen garden and glasshouse lead to access path through majestic oaks on to canal towpath.

8 Heatherbank, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1AS

Contact: Colin & Dee Morley

Open: Sat Aug 15, Sun Aug 16 (11am-5pm).

A real oasis in a most unexpected location. A Mediterranean-style suburban garden (200ft x 40ft), with interesting features and well stocked with many unusual plants, including several tropical species.

9 Grasmere, Rothwell, Yorks LS26 0BH

Contact: Terry & Tina Cook.

Open: Sun Aug 2 (noon-5pm).

A restful family suburban garden of a third of an acre is hidden among old orchard trees. Wildlife is encouraged by many nesting boxes, a pond, wild flower area, log piles for hedgehogs and flowers to attract butterflies. Secluded summerhouse enclosed by colourful tapestry hedge and architectural planting. Developing vegetable garden.

10 24 Brunswick Street, London E17 9NB

Contact: Martyn Cox.

Open: Sun Sept 13 (2pm-5.30pm).

A tiny urban front garden of shade?loving woodlanders leads to a 30ft x 15ft south-facing plot at the back of the house crammed full of hundreds of plants, including 20 types of fruit. A garden writer’s urban sanctuary, every inch of space has been put to good use. Lots of storage and recycling ideas. Green roof, borders, patio, greenhouse with exotics and covered deck.

11 28 Multon Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 3LH

Contact: 020 8704 0645; www.victoriasbackyard.co.uk

Open: Sun Aug 30 (2pm-6pm). Also by appointment.

Subtropical suburban oasis, 70ft x 40ft, designed to defy global warming, garden pests and children without recourse to carbon emissions, chemicals or cranial damage. Design is contemporary but not minimalist, lots of seating, and three ponds.

12 60 Lealand Road, Drayton, Portsmouth, Hants PO6 1LZ

Contact F G Jacob.

Open: Sun Aug 23 (1pm-5pm).

Prize-winning 50ft x 30ft garden with a difference. Plants from around the world include palms, yuccas, echiums and cannas. Lily ponds and rockery. Bamboos and grasses, also cacti and other exotics in greenhouse. The owner’s favourite is the Trachycarpus fortunei palm, now 17ft, introduced in 1970.

13 133 Hillfield Lane, Burton upon Trent, Staffs DE13 0BL

Contact: Clive & Margaret Smith.

Open: Sat Aug 15, Sun Aug 16 (1.30pm-5pm).

Award-winning, third-of-an-acre suburban garden with water features, raised beds and vegetable garden. Many innovative features.

14 33 Peerley Road, East Wittering, Sussex PO20 8PD

Contact: 01243 673215; Email: stixandme@aol.com

Open: Sun Sept 13 (noon-4pm). Also by appointment.

Seaside garden, 65ft x 32ft, 110yd from sea. Packed full of ideas and interesting plants using every inch of space to create rooms and places for adults and children to play. Specialising in unusual plants that grow well in seaside conditions. Great winter interest. A mix of contemporary and traditional styles and practical ideas to cope with strong salt winds, heavy clay soil in a mainly north-facing site. Although the garden is small, space is used to deceive.

15 High Trees, near Longton Park, Staffs ST3 4BA

Contact: 01782 318453.

Open: Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5pm). Visitors also welcome by appointment.

Very pretty secluded suburban garden with co-ordinated design features. Colour-themed herbaceous borders planted with many unusual plants highlighting colour, texture and form for all?year interest. An ideas garden where roses intermingle with clematis, and the coolness of hostas and ferns contrast with lush summer planting.

16 21a Waldegrave Road, London SE19 2AL

Contact: Email: suzie@flowerpower pictures.com.

Open: evening opening, wine, Fri Sept 4 (6.30pm-8.30pm). Also by appointment.

Urban roof terrace, 60ft x 30ft, with Mary Poppins views, central rusty water feature and sedum roof. Simply planted with trees, grasses and Verbena bonariensis. A calm oasis in the sky. Access via two flights of stairs, regret not suitable for children.

17 Piecemeal, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough, Notts LE12 5PE

Contact: 01509 672056; Email: admet123@btinternet.com

Open: tomorrow; Sun Aug 23; Sun Sept 13 (2pm-6pm). Also by appointment.

Plant enthusiast’s garden in tiny, sheltered courtyard enabling extensive and amazing collection of shrubs, perennials and climbers to thrive in more than 300 containers. Many unusual and not fully hardy. Busy herbaceous borders. Plants with distinctive foliage and many colourful combinations provide interest from spring to autumn. Fern-filled well. Conservatory overflowing with tender specimens.

18 Cherry Trees Wildlife Garden, East-the-Water, Devon EX39 4BW

Contact: Henry and Evelyn Butterfield.

Open: Sat Aug 1, Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5pm).

Small demonstration garden showing what can be done to bring wildlife into town. Includes courtyard garden, summer wild flower meadow, cottage garden border, woodland edge and ponds. Owners available for advice on wildlife gardening.

19 Yew Tree Villa, Wrexham, Flintshire LL13 9RN
Contact: Marian & Jeff Hughes.

Open: Sun Sept 20 (2pm-5pm).

Quarter-acre garden situated in small rural village. Densely planted with various shrubs, grasses and perennials providing late summer colour. Moon gate leads to open courtyard that has a water feature and many colourful pots.

20 Ulvik, Winchester, Hants SO22 6NY
Contact: 01962 852361.

Open: Sat Aug 8 to Tues Aug 11 incl (1pm-5pm). Also by appointment.

Completely enclosed hedged garden of half an acre designed on intimate scale to create interesting and unfolding views and sinuous shapes with many nooks and crannies. Naturalistic planting of mixed herbaceous borders, large variety of shrubs, many ornamental grasses, prairie-style border, small vegetable area, pond, wooded areas for shade-loving plants and features to encourage wildlife. Fun sculptures and children’s discovery quiz.

21 Brick Kiln Farm, Ashbourne, Derbys DE6 3EJ

Open: Sat Aug 1, Sun Aug 2 (11am-5pm).

Small courtyard area with a pond. An original well complements the reclaimed architectural stone work, leading to lawn.

22 Ednovean Farm, Perranuthnoe, Cornwall TR20 9LZ

Open: Sun Sept 13 (1pm-5pm).

Above Mounts Bay, with sweeping sea views. A garden of contrasts. Formal parterres and courtyards around a converted barn, opening to flowing lawns, finishing with Italian and gravel gardens.

23 Caereuni, Godre’r Gaer, near Corwen, Denbighshire LL21 9YA

Open: Sun Aug 2, 30; Mon Aug 31; Sun Sept 6, 20; Sun Oct 4, 25.
Quirky themed fantasy garden including Japanese smoke water garden, old ruin, Spanish courtyard, Welsh gold mine, Chinese peace garden, Fifties petrol garage.

24 Brightlands, Alford, Lincs LN13 9EW

Open: Sat Aug 15, Sun Aug 16 (11am-4.30pm).

Award-winning recently designed garden. Split into different areas offering small and large ponds and woodland walk.

25 Hill Close Gardens, Warwick, Warwickshire CV34 6HF
Open: Sat Sept 19 (11am-5pm).

Restored Victorian leisure gardens comprising 16 individual hedged gardens, seven with brick summerhouses. Heritage apple and pear trees, many varieties of asters and chrysanthemums.

26 High Bank, Bewdley, Worcs DY12 2PG

Open Sun Aug 2 (11am-5pm).

Beautiful garden with many old and protected trees. Edwardian summerhouse.

27 Court View, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 3ES

Open: Sun Aug 16; Sept 13 (2pm-6pm).

Colourful patio with insectivorous plants; shady, scented arbour, intimate dining area, sculptural butterfly bench by pond fed by stream.

28 Dorset House, Cheslyn Hay, Staffs WS6 7EE

Open: Sun Aug 2 (noon-5pm).

Inspirational plantaholic’s country garden giving all-year interest. Wealth of unusual rhododendrons, acers and shrubs.

29 Chesil Gallery & Chiswell Walled Garden, Chiswell, Dorset DT5 1AW

Open: Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5pm).

Two courtyard gardens next to artists’ studio with plants tolerant of maritime situations.

30 Walnut House, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0HG

Open: Sun Aug 2 (11am-5pm). Evening opening £5, wine & canapés, Wed Aug 5 (5.30pm-8.30pm).

Garden of contrasting moods, shady intimate fernery leads into large water garden reflecting light.

31 Church Farm House, Binegar, Somerset BA3 4UA

Open: Sun Aug 16 (11am-5pm).

Walled garden on top of the Mendips with contemporary cottage garden.

32 Hilltop, Woodville, Stour Provost, Dorset SP8 5LY

Open: Suns July 26 to Aug 16 incl (2pm-6pm).

In summer, the garden is a gorgeous riot of colour and scent.

33 The Magic Garden, Bradmore, Wolverhampton, Staffs WV3 9BW

Open: evenings £4, Sats Aug 1, 15 (7.30pm-10.30pm).

Escape the bustle of urban surroundings and enter the solitude of the walled secret garden.

34 55 Russell Avenue, Wollaton, Notts NG8 2BN

Open: Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5.30pm).

South-facing suburban garden with a cottage garden feel. Surrounded by mature trees, pretty borders.

35 21 Scafell Close, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 8JA

Open: Sat Aug 1, Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5pm).

Landscaped suburban garden. Colour-themed annuals border passing into vegetables, soft fruits and orchard. Fishpond and secret terraced garden with water feature.

36 10 Chestnut Way, Repton, Derbys DE65 6FQ

Open: Sun Aug 9 (1pm-6pm).

Meander through natural borders, spring bulbs, trees to a stunning butterfly bed and flower meadow.

37 55 Warham Road, South Croydon, London CR2 6LH

Open: Sun Aug 9 (2pm-5pm).

Wide lawn edged by sweeping borders. Planted for maximum colour, surrounded by mature trees and shrubs with semi-tropical planting.

38 Field House, Lymm, Cheshire WA13 0TQ

Open: Sat Aug 1 (1pm-5.30pm).

New garden in countryside. Stable block with sedum roof. Herbaceous borders, vegetables, fruit trees, orangery, water features and scented garden.

39 Meadow Cottage, Coalway, near Coleford, Glos GL16 7HL.
Open: Sun Aug 30 (2pm-6pm).

Cottage garden with shrubs, perennials and garden rooms. Pond with waterfall and bog garden.

40 357 Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9AE

Open: next Wed (2pm-5pm); Sun Aug 16 (11am-5pm). Also by appointment.

Cottage front with perennials, lilies and clematis. At rear, walk into exotic garden with brugmansia, cannas, oleander, banana.

41 The RISC Roof Garden, Reading, Berks RG1 4PS

Open: Sat & Sun Aug 8, 9; Sept 12, 13 (noon-4pm).

Small town centre roof garden developed to demonstrate sustainability. Water harvesting and irrigation systems powered by renewable energy.

42 Hundred Bank, Little Cowarne, Herefordshire HR7 4RH

Open: Sun Sept 6 (2pm-5pm).

Eclectic mix of subtropical, herbaceous and architectural plants including hot and cool borders. Grasses, pools, water features, vegetables, pots.

43-45 Marlbrook Gardens, Bromsgrove, Worcs B60 1DY

Includes three gardens: 24 Braces Lane, Saranacris, Oak Tree House

Open: Sun Aug 2 (1.30pm-5.30pm). Evening opening £6, wine & refreshments, Sat Sept 5 (6.30pm-10pm).

Stunning gardens of contrasting style, from gently sloping to steep terraces.

46 One Dering Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DB

Open: Sat Aug 1, Sun Aug 2 (2pm-5pm).

Romantic garden with optimum use of space.

47 The Secret Garden, Little Haywood, Staffs ST18 0UL

Open: Fri Aug 7 (11am-5pm).

Strong colour theme of trees and shrubs, underplanted with perennials, bulbs and laced with clematis. Gazebo.

48 Small But Beautiful, Bloxwich, Staffs WS3 3QA

Open: Sat Oct 10 (10am-4pm). Evening opening £3.50, wine, Sat Sept 12 (7pm-10pm).

Space used to its best potential. Japanese maples complement a bridge and water feature. Low maintenance.

49 23 Woodville Road, Ealing, London W5 2SE

Open: Sun Aug 30 (2pm-7pm).

Walled garden featuring tender and hardy exotics. Big leaves, giant grasses, ferns, meat-eaters and spiky plants.

50 225a Brixton Road, London SW9 6LW

Open: Sat Aug 8 (2pm-8pm).

A modern urban oasis, basement level with pool and up

per level of metal raised beds. Mixed vegetable, fruit and perennial planting in “rusty” colour palette.

VISITING INFORMATION

These outstanding small gardens and many others are open for the National Gardens Scheme (NGS). Visit the website for more information, including maps and driving directions, or buy a copy of The Yellow Book 2009 (£8.99), published by the NGS.

Typically, entry fees range from £2 to £4, children free. Evening openings tend to be slightly more expensive, but often include wine.

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Tea Gardens

This Japanese garden landscaping design is usually used for traditional Japanese tea houses, residential homes and some restaurants. The Japanese tea garden helps to create a relaxing atmosphere which many tea houses wish to create. Tea houses are mean to foster friendship, relaxation and appreciation for beauty. The Japanese term for a Japanese garden landscaping design leaning towards the Japanese tea garden is Rojiniwa. The Japanese tea ceremony is commonly done in many Japanese homes and establishments that it encourages some establishments and homes to put up their own Japanese tea gardens even if it were a small one.

Water garden landscaping can also be used in this form of Japanese garden design. There are many different water structures that are made from natural materials to complete the Japanese tea garden design. Remember, the Japanese prefer to have natural elements and structures in their gardens, which means that whatever water structure may be used needs to be base don natural elements found in nature.

Hill And Pond Gardens

The Japanese garden landscaping theme of hill and pond can be translated in several ways. This design concept is borrowed from the Chinese and has been since integrated into the Japanese garden landscaping designs. This design concept makes use of a true pond or a representation of it as well as a small hill or mound or another representation. Most of these hill and pond gardens in Japan are also referred to as stroll gardens as many people like to take strolls in them. The Japanese term for such a garden is Chisen Kaiyu Skiki. Gardens like these can also be made with sand and rocks, very similar to the next basic design concept for a Japanese garden, where the sand or gravel represents water and the rocks represent a hill or a mountain. There are plants integrated into the hill and pond garden. Both the tea garden and the hill and pond garden widely uses plants to bring life to their garden. These plants are also used to represent the plants found in the mountains.

Flat Garden

The flat garden is also known as a Zen garden or in Japanese, Hiraniwa. In almost all cases of a flat garden, it is done as a rock garden. The concept behind such a Japanese garden landscaping designs is that the rocks, sand and gravel are representations of other natural things. Most gardens of this nature do not use plants but there are some that do but they all tend to have garden sheds.

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Just the name herb has a healing and therapeutic ring to it. Use them to improve your family’s health. Remember that the herbs that you use should never replace a qualified practitioner’s medicines. Always consult a professional if in doubt.

Herb Garden Considerations

Take a few things into consideration when you design a herb garden.

Sunshine

Herbs love sunny positions. They need full sun to develop into full flavor and fragrant specimens. Plant your herbs where they get at least 4 hours of full sun daily.

Herbaceous plants grow very leggy when they go walking along, looking for sunshine in their lives! Angelica, viola’s, odorata and Corsican mint are an exception. They can grow in semi-shade.

Drainage

No plants, except water and bog plants, like wet and soggy feet. Herbs need well drained soil with plenty compost mixed into it.

Use a mulch to lock the moisture in and the weeds out! The weeds need sunlight to germinate.

Fertilization

Use a proper organic fertilizer for best results. I prefer organic because chemical fertilizers can cause an imbalance in the soil over an extended time period.

Soil

Plants only look good when they feel good. Healthy soilproduces a healthy root system. A healthy root system will produce healthy foliage and a healthy plant. The bottom line; healthy plants are easier to maintain. They are also more immune to diseases.

Grouping of Plants

While you design a herb garden, group together plants that need the same amount of feeding, i.e. water, soil, etc.

Herb Characteristics

We need to establish the characteristics and growth requirements, before we design a herb garden.

Annuals

An annual is usually grown by seed and will complete its life cycle within one growth season. Plant annuals freshly every season

Perennials

A perennial is usually grown by seed or by cuttings, divisions etc. Perennials last from two to three seasons. They need to be dug out after that and new plants planted.

Shrubs

A shrub is a longer lasting plant. It grows for many years. Growth is usually anything from 1.5 meters to 2 m and more.

Trees

Trees are the longest lasting of plants. They grow tall and add the canopy. A canopy is the 5th element of design (which is most often forgotten when you design a herb garden).

Design Details

Follow the correct design principles and goals. Design

Plan and draw your design according to a suitable scale.

Hard landscaping

Complete the hard landscaping first. This could include items like a fountain or statue as focal point, a paved path for access to the herbs, flower boxes, containers, etc.

Follow the hard landscaping in your design with the soft landscaping i.e. the plants and herbs.

Visual Rhythm

As you design a herb garden use the color wheel to get visual harmony and tranquility. Color makes a garden very interesting.

Start off with softer colors, then go to brighter colors, then repeat. Note that your second color does not upstage the first color. The colors must blend.

Here is an effective example that works well. Start off with one mint variety, and then bring in different kinds of mint, e.g. peppermint and spearmint. Repeat the pattern for an excellent effect.

Useful Herbs

Golden Creeping Oreganum is a lovely creeping ground cover. Plant it around paving.

Thyme is another good ground cover. It can be used to cascade down a rockery or around paving. It can grow in fairly poor well drained soil. Thyme is a slow grower, so don’t expect miracle overnight! It is used as a mouthwash and antiseptic.

Tansy is a bit of a scruffy herb. It has yellow daisy flowers. Tansy is an excellent fruit fly repellent. It makes a good companion plant under fruit trees.

Rue is also an insect repellent. It gives off a toxic residue. Rue is excellent to plant near stables.

Thyme, cotton, lavender and rosemary have fine texture leaves. Geraniums, pelargoniums, comfry and angelica have large texture leaves. Use combinations of these for visual effect when you design a herb garden.

Although not a herb, strawberries make a wonderful and useful contribution to a herb garden design. It serves as a ground cover, and has delicious fruit.

Herbs for Color

Grey

Grey herbs are Wormwood (insect repellent), cotton lavender (fish moth repellent), Cleveland sage, mugwort.

Pink

Pink herbs include; perennial basil, wooly sage, wild rose geraniums (the wild ones are pinks and purples), roses (wild garlic does well under roses as an insect repellent), bergamot, bressingham thyme.

Yellow

Yellow herbs include; golden celery, golden creeping oreganum, tansy, rue, Jerusalem Artichoke, and golden feverdew.

White

Herbs in this category are, elderberry, angelica, chervil, yarrow, garlic chives, chamomile, white thyme, and pyrethrum (insect repellent).

Red

Herbs with red flowers include roses, bergamot, nasturtiums, poppies and pineapple sage.

Green

Thymes and mints provide striking green foliage.

There are very many herb varieties. Each herb is unique. Each one has been created for a purpose. There are many useful herbs that I have not mentioned, like parsley. It is rich in iron. A sprig of parsley everyday contributes to a healthy body.

The list just goes on and on. There is thus lots of scope for you to be creative when you design a herb garden.

Free Herb Garden Design

We designed and installed this herb garden design. We provide all the information and guidance you need to adapt this garden plan. Download and use this herb garden design plan for your garden. Here is a full description of all the herbs used in this garden design.

http://www.design-gardens.com/design-a-herb-garden.html

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I have designed and installed many successful irrigation systems. In the process I have learnt many practical lessons . With time I will share them with you. Return to this page often to get the latest information. I will be writing many pages on the subject and will give some Tips.

Design Factors

A number of factors influence the installation of an irrigation design.

• Garden design
• Garden topology
• Environment
• Water supply
• Soil
• Plants
• Cost
• Degree of automation

Design gardens and irrigation systems together. With the design of the garden a lot of thought goes into grouping plants together according to their nourishment needs. An irrigation system designed at the same time will be in harmony with the overall garden design. This serves the needs of the plants.

Irrigation design can be quite complex. Many good intending garden owners buy some irrigation equipment and embark on a do it yourself exercise. There is nothing wrong with this approach, but care should be taken to do a proper design first. During the design you should consider the practical aspects of garden irrigation installation

Site Survey

Conduct a site survey before you start your irrigation design. This survey is similar to that done for a garden design. The difference in ground level is more critical for irrigation. The pressure differences in the water at different levels will influence the performance of your sprinklers.

Environmental conditions

Environmental conditions like wind and temperature affect the evaporation of water out of the garden. Wind will also affect the distribution of the water from the sprinklers. Proper watering of the plants is dependent on the allowances made for the environmental conditions.

Water Requirements

Do a proper pressure and flow test of your water supply. Water flow and pressure are interdependent. The water supply determines how many sprinklers can be operated at the same time. The more sprinklers you operate at the same time, the lower your water pressure will be.

Operating sprinklers at too high or too low pressure results in poor precipitation distribution. You end up having areas that are not watered properly. This is especially obvious on lawns. In the design of the system these factors are taken into account, and the system balanced.

Water quality must be compatible with the irrigation installation. For large rotors rough straining of the water is sufficient. Better quality water is required for sprinklers, and you need special filters for micro irrigation. The water holding capacity and infiltration rate of the soil (the rate at which the soil absorbs water) determines the scheduling and time constraints for irrigation. Your garden also requires different amounts of water in different seasons. Your watering schedule needs to take this into account.

Installation

Install the irrigation system at the same time as you do the landscaping. Your garden will only get disrupted on one occasion. Proper installation of the irrigation requires the digging of trenches for the water pipes and electrical wires. This is best done after digging over the site in preparation for the plants. Minimum damage is done to the plants.

I always dig the trenches at the edges of the garden beds. This allows the correct positioning of the sprinklers, and assists in possible future maintenance.

http://www.design-gardens.com/irrigation-system.html

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