Synopses & Reviews
Japanese gardens have a matchless allure all their own--so still and with a profound sense of beauty. Spending time in that peaceful environment, lost in reverie and contemplating nature, refreshes and renews the spirit. All the more amazing, then, that you can construct such a special place so quickly! A brief history will acquaint you with the traditional features that make these Zen-like spaces unlike any other, and guide you through planning, materials, plants and pruning, and special additions. Begin the transformation in a single weekend by creating a Japanese garden in an old sink for a balcony or patio; constructing trellis panels using bamboo; or turning a water basin and stone lantern into a focal point. It takes two weekends to add a zigzag bridge as a centerpiece to an iris garden or put up an arbor as a viewing position. In less than a month you can enjoy a vertical garden on a sleep slope, a heart-shaped pool with rockery, a waterfall right to edge of the patio area, and a tea garden! The work lasts only a short time--the pleasure, forever. A Main Selection of Garden Book Club.
Synopsis
"For gardeners interested in re-creating the refined atmosphere of a Japanese landscape in their own backyards, Ketchell has compiled a realistic guide to constructing more than 20 outstanding Oriental garden features, from easy projects that can be finished in one weekend to more elaborate enterprises. Detailed directions combine with impeccable illustrations, and Ketchell's informed explanations of construction techniques, material requirements, tools, and equipment make even the most intricate design attainable. Concise descriptions of customary plant material, and pruning and care instructions supplement the project guidelines. Even if your garden is more Occidental than Oriental, Ketchell's sensible advice resounds with a Zen-like wisdom."--"Booklist.
Synopsis
“Ketchell has compiled a realistic guide to constructing more than 20 outstanding Oriental garden features. Detailed directions combine with impeccable illustrations, and Ketchells informed explanations of construction techniques, material requirements, tools, and equipment make even the most intricate design attainable.”—
Booklist.