Water Gardening: Liquid Serenity

Imagine reclining in an Adirondack lounge under a wisteria lattice on a sultry summer day, sunlight dappling the warm grass beneath you and the sound of softly splashing water in the background. Or perhaps sunbathing beside a shimmering reflection of the blue sky above with the delicate scent of blooming water lilies hanging in the air. What do these pleasant visions of relaxation have in common? The back drop of a water garden of course.

Whether in the form of a bubbling brook laughing along between flower beds, a still reflection pool mirroring the heavens or the beautiful base of a sparkling fountain, water has been used to enhance the pleasure of gardens for centuries all over the world.

In the Japanese culture, the inclusion of a water element in a garden had strong symbolic and mystical value. Water’s cleansing, purifying and refreshing attributes are valued as much as its aesthetic presence.

Philosophically, it brought balance to the natural elements of the garden. Stone lanterns were often placed in the centre of reflecting pools to symbolize the dichotomy of the permanence and fluidity of life and the male and female forces of yin and yang.

Water is also used to mirror the surrounding flora of the Japanese garden, and to enhance feelings of serenity and tranquillity, washing away stress so that the viewer of the garden would be better able to enjoy its many pleasures.

In the modern western garden these symbolic elements are still valued, though somewhat more subconsciously. The purpose of the modern garden is dual in nature. On one hand, we want a space full of beauty and balance, something upon which we can rest our eyes. On the other hand, we want a haven, a getaway from the stresses of our lives.

The refreshing sound of water and the coolness it provides in the heat of summer make gardening and experiencing your garden more pleasurable. The quiet elegance of a well designed water feature provides prestige and sophistication to even the smallest of gardens. Consider these enviable attributes when planning your spring plantings and designs, and make room for a garden within a garden.

For advice about water gardening call 08456 589 599