Zen Garden: Turning Your Yard into a Meditative Space

As a residential property owner, you are fortunate enough to have an outdoor space. But if you have a vast yard, whether a front or backyard, you have to make the most of it. And when it comes to utilizing your outdoor surroundings, creating a garden can be your best bet.

There are many different types of gardens you can consider. However, it’s not just a matter of planting shrubs, flowers, and trees and installing hardscape elements in your garden.

It’s best to think of a garden theme that can work wonders for you and your family. Choose one that can give you peace and relaxation. And that’s where a Zen garden comes into the picture.

That said, here’s how to transform your yard into a Zen garden:

  1. Understand the concept of Zen

Before taking the plunge, you must first understand the concept of Zen. For the uninitiated, Zen is a Japanese term for peace and calmness. It is a Japanese school of Mahayana Buddhism focusing on the value of meditation and contemplation.

As far as Zen gardens are concerned, they used to serve as outdoor spaces for Monks embracing the teachings of Buddhism. They provide a place for meditation and contemplation to achieve peace and relaxation.

Today, Zen gardens are no longer just for Monks but for every homeowner looking to have a Zen outdoor space.

  1. Select the plants for your garden

When it comes to shrubs and trees for your Zen garden, you must be highly critical and selective. First off, choose short, green plants to create island vegetation. Also, opt for architectural plants to put accents and embellishments.

If you’re clueless about what to grow and plant, here are a few shrub and tree recommendations for a Zen garden:

  • Creeping thyme
  • Deutzia
  • Pachysandra
  • Japanese forest grass
  • Evergreen azaleas
  • Bamboo
  • Crimson Queen Japanese maple
  • Umbrella pine

That said, be sure to get your plant supplies from reliable landscape suppliers. Once obtained, you can start preparing for your outdoor gardening.

  1. Prepare your gardening tools and supplies

Even if you have green thumbs, actual planting can be a little daunting. To optimize your outdoor gardening, make sure to prepare your tools and supplies. They will make the whole process more efficient and productive.

In addition, you must factor in the garden layout and the installation of garden elements. As such, here are gardening tools and supplies you might need:

  • White gravel, edging rocks, and a variety of stones
  • Steel garden and wooden Zen rake
  • Shovel, hoe, tamper, and tape measure
  • String, string level, and stakes
  • Back brace and work gloves
  • Landscape fabric
  1. Create the ideal garden layout

Once you have set your plants and supplies in place, you can get into the actual garden layout. When it comes to this, consider two key aspects: site selection and preparation.

When it comes to site selection, choose a space in your yard that you like your garden to bloom. While at it, consider various factors such as soil quality, sunlight exposure, water accessibility, no pests, and fewer weeds.

At this point, select a flat space in your yard and be sure to mark it out. Once done, you’re now ready for the actual outdoor gardening!

  1. Play with color psychology

Color psychology is the study of how hues affect human behavior. As you can see, colors can evoke certain emotions, create perceptions, and influence actions. It applies to outdoor gardening as well, especially for a Zen garden.

When it comes to a Zen garden, the goal is to create an atmosphere of peace and calmness. Therefore, hues like blue and lavender can make a world of difference.

Of course, green always serves as the perfect background which represents vitality. It won’t hurt to have a sprinkle of bold colors without necessarily making distractions in your Zen garden.

  1. Install hardscape structures

Your Zen garden won’t be complete without some hardscape structures. These garden features can boost both the aesthetics and functionality of your garden. Below are a few recommendations:

  • Walkway (with stepping stones)
  • Deck, patio, arbor, or pergola (a hub for outdoor relaxation)
  • Water features (for calming effect)
  • Wooden bridge (for enchantment)

At this point, you now know how to transform your outdoor space into a meditative one. Be sure to consider the Zen garden ideas recommended above. Incorporate all these recommendations, from choosing the right plants to creating the garden layout to installing hardscape elements.

That said, you can either take the DIY route or hire professional landscapers for your garden. In the end, you’ll have the perfect Zen garden that you and your family deserve. Ultimately, your outdoor space can bring your family a sense of balance, peace of mind, utmost relaxation, and genuine happiness.