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Some of the most spectacular gardens are rock gardens. These beautiful gardens come in many shapes and sizes ranging from small and simple to vast and elaborate. Each garden possesses its own unique quality. A rock garden is created with flowers, foliage, rocks, and sometimes ponds and waterfalls.
The concept of rock gardening, as we know it today, got its start in the British islands, according to the website article "Rock and Alpine Gardens", written by T. H. Everett, and published by NARGS. It goes on to say that early travelers to the Swiss Alps were impressed by the exquisite qualities of the native flowers and foliage, and they desired to grow them in their homeland. Some of the heartier plants survived their migration and grew in locations such as arches, grottoes, and in other primitive rock groupings. The same article says rock gardens in Europe began to improve at the start of the twentieth century. Many publications were written at this time which sparked a renewed interest in rock gardening. This interest soon spread to the North American continent, and on the grounds of Smith College in the year 1890, a small scale reproduction of the Royal Botanic Gardens in England was designed.
Using rock that is indigenous to the area will give the garden a more natural look. "Rock and Alpine Gardens" recommends choosing one type of rock and utilizing it for most of the garden. Some suggested choices are dense sandstone, sturdy limestone, or any other lightweight stone. Also, placement is critical in achieving a natural look. The same article says to place rocks so they have a natural, settled appearance. On a sloped area, the article diagrams the rocks as being partially buried beneath the soil and gradually protruding. It suggests starting at the bottom of curved areas and working towards the top, placing rocks in a way that gives a natural appearance. The area should appear to have naturally occurring rock that has been exposed by the elements. Follow natural contours of the terrain when placing rocks. "Rock and Alpine Gardens" suggests bringing in additional soil to use in areas having poor quality dirt. Additional soil can also be used when trying to achieve a certain look.
When planting a rock garden, "Rock and Alpine Gardens" advises letting the area settle for a couple of weeks if it seems to be unstable. During this time, consider what varieties of plants you would like to use. Check the plant hardiness zone chart for information and recommended dates for planting in your particular location. Any plants you like can be successfully incorporated into a rock garden. Just be sure the plants you choose grow well in your location.
The following information on soil preparation is adapted from "Burpee: Complete Gardener" published in 1995 by Macmillan, and it begins with proper soil development. This is an important step in creating your rock garden. The dirt should be rich, light in texture, and well-drained. Hard soil, such as clay, should be lightened by adding mulch or other organic material. Some materials that can be mixed into existing soil to improve its texture are shredded leaves or bark, pine needles, shells from nuts, grass clippings, cocoa bean or buckwheat hulls, and compost.
Adding the natural beauty of a rock garden to your property has many benefits. A well-designed rock garden can greatly improve the landscape and increase the property value. Rock gardening is also a rewarding and enjoyable pastime. Your rock garden will become a place to go for relaxation and tranquillity at the end of a busy day.
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