Serene Gardens: Creating Japanese Design and Detail in the Western Garden. This item is unavailable.Serene Gardens: Creating Japanese Design and Detail in the Western Garden

Japanese garden design is concerned with a reverence for nature and its overall effect is of tranquility. Providing an inspirational and practical introduction to the traditions of Japanese Zen gardens, this guide explains how western plants and materials can be used to achieve the natural, minimalist look so beloved by Japanese garden designers. It shows how to use natural materials such as wood, bamboo, rocks and pebbles and how to emphasize the value of shape in trees and shrubs and the subtlety of colour through the varied greens of foliage and moss. The guide provides instructions and tips for selecting plants and materials which are readily available, as well as plant lists and climate zone maps to aid western gardeners.

From earliest times, the formal gardens of Japan have represented the mountains and waterfalls, lakes and streams of the natural world. In their reverence for the landscape and the seasons, Japanese gardeners have always made exquisite use of natural materials, such as bamboo, rocks, and pebbles. Having explored the traditional Japanese approach to garden design ‹ from hill and pond gardens with their islands and bridges, and tea gardens with their stone lanterns and water features, to Zen dry gardens with their use of moss and pebbles ‹ Yoko Kawaguchi shows Western gardeners how to recreate Japanese garden design and detail, whether in a tiny urban setting or a large country plot. Throughout, there is an abundance of practical suggestions for locally available plants and materials, and stunning views of gardens in America, Japan, and Europe are complemented by close-up details. An extensive directory offers suggestions for selecting plants to create the desired effect, and climate zone maps offer additional detail on their hardiness. No matter how small your outdoor space, Serene Gardens offers endless ideas for creating your own natural haven of peace and tranquility.