The secret of Asian horticulture, which has a magical attraction for us Europeans, lies in the perfect symbiosis of peace, nature and the plant language that expresses Asian philosophy. Composed down to the last detail, these oases of peace are enchanting, which you can bring into your own garden with a little gardening knowledge and the fun of planning a very special green space.
What characterizes an Asian garden?
An Asian garden combines elements such as tranquility, nature and plant language and follows different styles such as Zen gardens, tea gardens and landscape gardens. The four elements of stone, water, moss and plants as well as suitable garden elements such as bamboo privacy screens, stone benches, bridges, sculptures or water basins are important for the harmonious design.
Step 1: Determine the style of the garden
Asian horticulture follows different styles.
- The Zen garden is the Asian version of the gravel bed and is relatively easy to care for.
- The tea gardens are lushly planted and have a green-shaded pavilion at the center.
- Landscape gardens are very spacious and their aesthetic design invites you to take a meditative stroll.
What all Asian facilities have in common is that you can relax in your garden and leave everyday life behind you completely. These gardens act like balm for the soul and, if you let yourself get involved, ensure absolute relaxation.
The Four Elements
These are:
- Stone for the mountains,
- Water for the sea and rivers.
- Moss symbolic of age as well as
- Plants and trees for life in and of itself.
All 4 elements should be present, real or symbolic, in an Asian garden. For example, in many Zen gardens you will find gravel beds raked in waves to represent water.
Which plants fit into this garden?
You don't necessarily have to choose Asian plants for planting. Choose plants that suit the soil, location and climate there. Many ornamental plants from northern Japan, where the weather conditions are very similar to ours, have long since become native to our gardens. These include, for example:
- Japanese Maple
- Pine
- Korean fir
- Larch
- Medlar
- Stone yew
- Garden Bonsai
- Bamboo
- miscanthus
- Bearskin Grass
- Spicebush
- Japan sedge
The probably most famous symbol of Japan, the cherry tree, also fits very well into an Asian-inspired garden. It is available in different breeding forms. Slender columnar cherries also fit well into a small garden and enchant the green area in spring with their wonderful flowers. A lushly growing cherry tree can shade a gazebo where you can enjoy the relaxing peace of nature with a cup of tea or coffee in summer.
Garden elements that should not be missing in any Asian garden
Artificial garden elements are used sparingly, structuring the greenery very harmoniously.
- A bamboo privacy screen limits the reading or meditation corner.
- Stone benches invite you to relax and enjoy.
- Small bridges span a gently babbling stream.
- Sculptures underline the Asian charisma.
If space is limited, a Japanese water basin, the tsukubai, is a common element in Asian gardens. A simple fountain or large water bowls also fit wonderfully into the special atmosphere of this facility.
Tip
Asian gardens appear carefully planned, but never kitschy. When planning, pay careful attention to creating a well-rounded, authentic ambience. You can find inspiration for this in many botanical gardens but also in show gardens at garden retailers.