As times become more hectic and money to travel is less available, people are choosing to turn their homes into their own sanctuaries. Many gardens are being designed not only for beauty but also to provide an oasis for the mind and spirit. In particular, Japanese Garden designs evoke a strong feeling of tranquility and peace of mind. Japanese garden is all about harmony & balance, as well as using the right components. There are three traditional types of Japanese Garden designs and all integrate the use of the beautiful bamboo plant.
- Tsukiyama – Translated into “constructed mountain”, this garden is designed with hills and contours and includes a type of water (either a pond or stream). Other elements include bamboo garden fences and a Japanese temple/house.
- Karensansui – Meaning “dry garden”, Karensansui uses elements such as sand or rocks. Sand is raked in certain patterns that symbolize waves of water and benches are placed throughout to give owners places for quiet reflection.
- Chaniwa – This is the most complex of the designs and includes a winding pathway leading through a garden of water types and lush vegetation, eventually ending at a Japanese teahouse.
Whether or not you choose a Japanese garden design, you can incorporate bamboo into your garden in a variety of ways to exude an extra sense of peace and serenity.
Bamboo Fencing/Borders – Bamboo Fencing and Borders add privacy and block unsightly views. The strong bamboo plant shields against excessive wind and remains green and exotic looking in your garden. An added bonus is the melodic whistling that comes with the wind blowing through your bamboo plants. If planting your own bamboo border, spread the bamboo plants 3 to 5 feet apart to form a dense screen. Most bamboo plants will reach full height within 5 or 6 years and require very little upkeep once established. You can even eat the shoots! If you prefer to install bamboo fencing instead of growing it, there are a variety of options for you to choose from and still enjoy a natural look.
Bamboo Fountains – Water features are an important part of Japanese garden designs and are excellent ways to create a space that evokes peace and tranquility. They are also a way to add a unique design element to your yard and if needed, the dripping water can aerate a pond.
Bamboo Benches – Bamboo has a straight fine grain like oak wood but is stronger and can endure better in outdoor weather conditions. It’s pliable enough to be made into variety of designs and lightweight enough to be made into folding chairs that can be stored and moved at your own convenience. Make sure to look for products finished with natural oils.
Bamboo Wind Chimes – If growing a border of melodic bamboo is not an option, consider livening up your landscape with a bamboo wind chime. Available in a variety of designs and sizes, wind chimes are the easiest way to bring a soothing element to your garden.
Bamboo Garden Structures – For those wanting to take their landscaping to the next level, consider installing a Bamboo Gazebo, Pergola or even a Bamboo Bridge. These are great ways to enjoy your beautiful garden while giving yourself a place for quiet conversation or reflection
Bamboo Tiki Bar – Want to invite others to the oasis? While it’s not a traditional element of a Japanese garden, tiki bars are a fun way to liven up your space and entertain. Bamboo tiki bars add a tropical element to your yard and are sturdy enough to withstand any wild party.
A garden with any Japanese design element will be your oasis from this crazy world, giving you a space to reflect, meditate and spend time with friends and family. Bamboo is a natural and durable design option for the garden you desire (and deserve).
Bamboo t-shirts
Whether gardening or entertaining, Green Earth Bamboo has the loungewear for you. Try these organic tees and bamboo underwear that are both comfortable and odor-resistant. These versatile women’s tunics are great for working or playing in the yard, while these wicking socks will keep your feet dry (when you choose to wear shoes that is!).
If you’re ready to grow your own bamboo paradise, visit Green Earth News next week for tips on growing and landscaping with the amazing bamboo plant!
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In the UK Using bamboo in gardens is a wonderful idea.
This plants can looks great all year around , easy to grow and can be bought big to use for screening.
One thing to remember they tend to spread in garden and there is a must to use bamboo root barrier, if not you will need heavy machines to dig in your garden.
but by using a barrier for the roots you can enjoy a plant that moves with the wind looks so relaxing and charming all year around
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