Decades ago, travellers to the Swiss Alps were enchanted by the foliage on the mountains. The plants and flowers grew around the rocks on the mountainside.

Wanting to create the same effect in their countries, they took back some of the flowers and foliage of the Swiss Alps. Of course, not all the plants survived the journey. But the hardier species did survive and were planted amidst rocks on little slopes. The rock gardens as these were called grew immensely popular. From public parks, the rock gardens made their way into people's homes.

How to create a rock garden - a few tips for beginners.

• A genuine rock garden usually involves growing plants that are normally found in mountainous regions. But nowadays, more often than not, people use plants that grow well in local conditions.

• Some people use more of rocks while others use more of plants. The proportion varies according to personal preference.

• If you have a fair sized garden, pick a spot that already has large stones scattered around it. Or if you have to make it yourself, choose a spot that is well exposed to the sun and the wind.

• A shady spot under overhanging trees is not an ideal place for rock gardens.

• The soil need not be very fertile. Not the way you would require it to be in a vegetable or a flower garden.

• Rock gardens look better on slopes. Try to give a gentle slope in your garden. Insert the rocks into the soil carefully, giving it a natural look.

• Plants usually grow well amidst rocks that that are porous. Sandstone, sturdy limestone or rocks that don't weigh much are ideal choices. But it is good to use locally found rocks with locally abundant plants. They will blend well together.

• If the rocks are broken or cracked, turn them over to their better side. When you lay rocks, place the large ones upon each other.

• Add soil before you add more rocks. Thus you will have a strip of soil which will accommodate plants and roots.

• The spaces between rocks should be V shaped. It should be wider at the top, so the plant has room to bloom.

• Scatter smooth pebbles around the garden, a little away from the big rocks.

• The soil used should be a mix. One third of it should be sand; one third soil and one third should be humus.

• Clay soil is not recommended for rock gardens.

• After you have got the rocks and soil in place, you can introduce the plants.

• Choose small plants with bright flowers.

• Large plants could hide your rocks altogether and spoil the effect of your rock garden.

• Water should not stagnate in a rock garden. That's one of the reasons why you need to have it on a slope. If the water doesn't run off easily, maybe you need to add more sand to the soil.

• Always start off with plants that are easy to grow. As you get taste success, you may want to look for more challenging options.

Rock gardens can be as simple or as elaborate as one wants. Creating a rock garden is a relaxing pastime that many people look forward to.

Post Comment

Name : Email : Password : Comments :