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Small garden with rocks


Rock Garden Ideas for Small Spaces

By

David Beaulieu

David Beaulieu

David Beaulieu is a landscaping expert and plant photographer, with 20 years of experience.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 11/07/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee

In This Article

Project Overview

Rock garden designs can range from to sprawling, naturalistic creations to faux dried river beds to rustic mounds of stones, soil, and plants. It all depends on your preferences and the amount of space (and rock) you have to work with. If you have a small area, often the best design is a simple, round raised bed made of select rocks. This design can fit neatly into any well-chosen nook and will not be in the way when you mow your lawn. If you plant it thoughtfully, it also won't require a lot of maintenance.

Illustration: The Spruce, 2018

Click Play to Learn How to Build Rock Gardens for Small Spaces

Equipment / Tools

Materials

Instructions

  1. Build the First Course

    Clear the area of grass or other organic material, if necessary. Be sure to dig up sod and other plants below the roots to prevent new shoots from coming up later in your rock garden. Lay out a circle of rocks as the perimeter of your base, making the diameter about 4 feet (or as desired). This forms the foundation of your garden and creates some elevation above the surrounding ground. You can use up most of your largest, least attractive rocks in this bottom layer, but it does not require stones larger than about 12 inches in any dimension.

    Fill the area inside the first course with sandy soil, which provides good drainage. If all you have is a clayey soil, add sand and compost to it to promote better drainage. Walk on the soil to pack it down.

    David Beaulieu

  2. Add the Second Course

    Plan the second course of stones. This can simply be a smaller version of the first course, forming a circle within a circle, or it can take the form of one or more bands of stone that pass through the center of the bed perimeter. In any case, the second course should provide plenty of room for planting between the bed perimeter and the second-course stones as well as in any additional spaces created by the second course.

    Place the second course of stones according to your plan (and don't be afraid to experiment). Since you used your heaviest stones for the first course, you have lighter, more easily maneuvered stones to use for the second course. Try to use the best-looking stones here (any size is fine) because they will be more visible than the foundation rocks.

    David Beaulieu

  3. Select Plants for Your Rock Garden

    Start your plant selection by choosing a color scheme that will work well with your stone. For example, if the garden is made primarily with red sandstone, you'll want some plants with a hint of red in them, as well as some plants displaying silver, yellow, white, or other complementary colors.

    In addition to selecting for color, choose plants that thrive in well-drained soil. Also, confirm that the plants have similar watering requirements and are suitable for the amount of sunlight the garden receives. Drought-resistant plants are best, although you can make an exception for a particularly handsome specimen that you can treat as an annual (that is, temporary) plant. Finally, seek variation in plant height and leaf texture for maximum visual impact and interest.

    David Beaulieu

  4. Plant Your Rock Garden

    Arrange the plants in your rock garden while they are still in their pots. Usually, it's best to plant in threes: grouping three of the same kind of plant together or in a strategic arrangement. Keep in mind that you will intersperse rocks among the plants.

    Once you've settled on a layout, begin planting with additional soil as needed, adding rocks for decorative effect as you go (if you add all the rocks before planting, they'll just be in the way of your digging.) 

    If you want to cover small areas of soil with rock mulch (to prevent weed growth), use small stones of the same type (or at least similar coloring) as the major stones forming the rock structure.

    David Beaulieu

Sample Rock Garden Design

Here is a good sample selection of plants for a small rock garden, chosen for color, care requirements, size/height, and texture:

This rock garden will look nicer in spring and early summer (when the plants are in bloom) than it will in late summer. That's an example of a compromise you must make unless you have a space large enough to implement a sequence-of-bloom agenda. For colorful blooms throughout the summer, you can easily add the annual, portulaca, to the mix.

Another compromise is made with Scotch moss, which is not drought-tolerant. This is a case of sacrificing longevity for a temporary pop of color and texture. Scotch moss is suited to planting zones 4 to 9 and bears small white flowers, but it is grown mainly for the solid carpet of yellowish-green that it provides. It grows in full sun to part shade.

The only plant in this sample design that is grown more for its flower than its foliage is the daffodil. The relatively coarse textures of the lamb's ear, wood spurge, and hens and chicks contrast well with the other plants, all of which have more delicate foliage. As the years go by and the daffodil and lamb's ear spread, you can divide them. If you decide that they clutter up your rock garden too much, transplant them to somewhere else in the yard.

Tip

Give your rock garden a "grown-in-place" look by layering while you plant. Set a few plants first, then add rocks around them, as though the plants have grown up through the "cracks" in the rocks. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible with rocks and plants.

Watch Now: Painted Rock Crafts

40 Beautiful Rock Garden Ideas In 2022

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You probably had some aesthetic garden designs already outlined in your head, but then quickly realized that they were not the best to go by. Or you may altogether be bereft of ideas. Have you thought about having a rock garden? Check out these best rock garden ideas we’ve laid out for you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

A mini rockery rightly positioned in the front of your house is a beautiful idea, and even more so when the rocks are entwined by all-green plants. You can position the garden at the corners of your house, or structure it so that it surrounds your yard.

 

 

2. Alpine Garden with Small Water Pond and Bridge

 

 

If you love the texture of a smooth pebble, you may want to consider this rock garden design. It is a lovely garden that consists of a small pond constructed using pebbles and rocks. The number of boulders needed to construct it may make it pricey, but you could always customize it to make it budget-friendly.

 

 

3. Mediterranean

Dry Rock Garden

 

 

One of the most pleasant sights to behold is a garden of flowers. Nothing beats the refreshing feeling that can come from having those sweet-smelling plants thriving under the moderate conditions that are provided by your garden. This rock garden is one such Mediterranean-style garden with blossoms everywhere If you are not a fan of flowers, other options can make your yard the way you want it: think purple fountain grass, lavender, or a combination of both.

 

 

 

 

4. A Rock Garden with Alpine 

 

 

 

If you are a rock garden enthusiast, one of the first things you’ll notice is that alpine plants are commonly grown in them. This shouldn’t come as a surprise if the biology of the plant is properly understood. This garden arrangement is best positioned at the center of your house. It is an excellent option if you don’t want anything too pricey.

 

 

5. Rock Garden with Flower Bed and Step Path

 

 

This is another garden design that makes use of flower beds. Shrubs, a few boulders, and pebbles are mainly used in this garden design. If you wish to, a step path makes for easy access to your garden. Also, this is one of the cheaper rock garden solutions out there because the main material involved is pebbles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural stones, when situated in an appealing environment, are something everyone delights in. This is a very convenient garden arrangement that provides the space you need from everyday stressors. One beautiful thing about this rock garden is the fact that it does not require constant maintenance, plus it is easy to prepare. There is always room to add more plants of your choice in the gaps between the boulders. However, this is entirely up to you.

 

 

7. White Rock with Green Bush 

 

 

As its name indicates, this small rockery consists of white rock with an all-green bush planted in the middle. You have the option of substituting the stone lantern with any other stone you like, but it is advisable to keep it short and simple for a better flow with the garden arrangement. With this garden design, you will not need to worry about maintenance.

 

 

8. Rock Garden with Cactus Plants

 

 

 

This garden arrangement is nice and would definitely add a touch of beauty to your garden. Flowering cacti are beautiful plants, and the synergy they have with rocks and pebbles is second to none.

 

 

9. Stone Steps with Flowers

 

 

Narrow rocks are ideal for this particular rock garden design.  Like some rock garden ideas for small spaces in this post, this idea is also low maintenance and easy to prepare. It features nice-looking flowers stationed on both sides of pebbles and stone steps. Green shrubs and cacti can be used to replace the flowers if you like.

 

 

10. Hillside Rock Garden

 

 

 

This hillside garden design is ideal for large gardens. This design allows you to station stones at one point, a pebble pathway at another point, and then your flower beds in between your pebble pathway and your stones. There are plenty of bushes and cacti types in this garden idea which you can choose from.

 

 

11. Simple Rock Garden Ideas – Rock Steps

 

 

 

The arrangement of this garden is mainly dependent on the proper preparation of the soil, your stepping stone arrangement, and the type of plants you cultivate in your rock garden. To make it look even more beautiful, you might want to include some boulders in your arrangement.

 

 

12. Traditional Zen-style Japanese Garden

 

 

 

The Zen-style Japanese garden draws its inspiration from nature, making use of flowers and rocks to connote the beauty of Mother Nature. The build of this garden comprises an abundance of green shrubs and pebbles. There are also a few boulders dispersed throughout the garden. The greenery on the sides and middle of the garden would certainly brighten up your garden. All in all, this is a very serene design, appropriate for both small and large spaces.

 

 

 

 

13. River Rock Gardens

 

 

The design of this garden is basically hinged on the specific arrangement of pebbles to bring out a certain design pattern. If you do not have a thing for big pebbles, this design may not be the best garden design for you. There is always room for matching and mixing various designs to come up with a unique design for yourself.

 

 

14. Oriental Rock Garden

 

 

 

A rock garden of this type is suitable for both small and large gardens. It has caught the fancy of many rock garden fans because the classic design it adopts requires little maintenance.

 

 

15. Rock Garden with Water Pond and Pitcher

 

 

 

This is basically a simple set-up that is perfect for the center of a small garden or a larger garden. It is also a low-maintenance garden, with minimal preparation time involved.

 

 

16. Rock Mulch

 

 

 

This is a great gardening idea with one marvelous additional benefit. It makes use of the principle of mulching to help the soil of your garden retain its moisture and temperature. In addition, the rocks serve as a protective layer over the topsoil rather than being simply for decoration. The layer also promotes better irrigation, which your selection of plants can benefit from.

 

 

17. Rock Garden with Pond Landscape 

 

 

 

This is a gorgeous design that makes use of a combination of cacti, green shrubs, boulders, and pebbles. Also, there is a lovely pond landscape in the design of this garden. If you are keen on having a serene environment where you can relax, then this rock garden is your best bet. The water feature it contains will surely help you rest and relax.

 

 

18. Rock Boulder Formation

 

 

This rock garden comprises three boulders placed at the center. These boulders do not have to be statue-y or shiny to be placed at the center of your garden. Also, the boulders will have to complement one another as no boulder looks great on its own.

 

 

19. Rock Garden with Pond in Ornamental Backyard

 

 

 

Contrary to its name, this is a rock garden option that requires you to break your bank before creating it. The arrangement here consists of big boulders that complement a backyard brook. Even though this is not a very cheap option, the sense of serenity it brings to your home far outweighs the high costs needed to create it!

 

 

20. Garden Pebble Path

 

 

 

Having a path lined with pebbles in your garden is a beautiful addition to any regular garden. It is even lovelier when you step on these pebbles barefooted, as the amazing sensation it gives your feet is priceless. Also, having your pebble path lined with green shrubs and flowers on both sides is the way to go. 

 

 

21. Rock Garden with Bushes and Plants

 

 

The design of this rock garden requires you to include more boulders. You’ll have to properly tailor-make your soil to suit the plants you’ll grow there. If having different color patches is your thing, you can also scatter flowers of different colors in your garden.

 

 

22. Buddha-Inspired Rock Garden

 

 

 

You’ll most likely encounter a challenge building this rock garden without a statue of the Buddha. But not to worry as any statue or centerpiece would get the job done. Although pricey, the excellent sight and incredible feeling it offers will compensate for the cost of setting it up.

 

 

23. Rock Garden Terraces

 

 

 

Having rocks as part of your terrace will enhance its beauty. It certainly would be better looking when these rocks are combined with some other factors. These plants can either be the center of attraction in your garden, or they can serve to complement the aesthetics of the stone.

 

 

24. Stones in Equilibrium

 

 

 

The stone in equilibrium rock idea is a very straightforward one, at least during its construction. There are some tactics and shortcuts that you’ll have to apply to create this garden. Once you get through with its creation, you’ll have a beautiful stone structure displayed in your garden for all to marvel at.

 

 

25. Japanese Zen Garden

 

 

Gardens inspired by the Zen ideology are usually known to incorporate elements of nature, which is the case with this idea. The garden has enough Zen-ness to it – certain rocks similar to huge jades are neatly dispersed on the ground of the garden, and there’s lovely greenery at the sides and in the background.

 

 

26. Rock Garden Landscaped with Boulders

 

 

 

Confused as to how to set up your garden? Rocks can always work some magic. For this rock garden idea, crevices are shoved with certain plants, and certain large boulders are incorporated for contrast in size.

 

 

27. Garden Pond with Rocks

 

 

There is no denying the fact that everyone experiences a relaxing feeling when there is a body of water nearby. That is definitely the case with this garden. Making use of smooth stones on any large water body or in the pond of your garden will make it appealing (especially on its banks) as you can only peer over your pond by stepping on them.

 

 

28. Rock Dike Pond

 

 

If you enjoy displaying shiny objects, this rock garden solution with a pond is the option for you! The build of this rock garden is such that you cannot pass beyond its borders without experiencing an overwhelming compulsion to complement it. What is even more astonishing is the fact that this rock garden is budget-friendly.

 

 

29. Rock Garden with Flat Slabs Walkway 

 

 

We often neglect the profound effect that nature has on us. It’s easy to overlook the benefits of surrounding ourselves with nature. Utilizing our garden space with a touch of nature is a great source of relaxation. In this type of rock garden, the rock steps lend themselves well to most garden themes and layouts, which other substitutes, like concrete, simply would not cut it. The rocky slabs it features together with some wooden planks are the lovechild of nature and architecture.

 

 

 

 

A mosaic design, especially when it has to do with a smooth and consistent surface, is certainly desirable. Naturally, rocks come in different shapes and forms. When you get creative with these rocks in a mosaic fashion, you’ll arrive at a beautiful work of art. This art piece is ideal for adorning the pathway to your home with grace and homeliness, or as designed walkways.  Alternatively, how about getting a set of stepping stones to make your walk more comfortable?

 

 

31. Rock Pond

 

 

Indeed, plenty of rock garden enthusiasts out there may not have what it takes to fulfill their dream of having a large pond. However, all is not lost – some rock gardens are perfect for smaller spaces. You can take some smooth and pretty pebbles and glue them under heat to the inside part of a bowl. Fill the bowl with water. Dig a hole in your lawn that can accommodate the bowl and place it there. Include some fish, and there you go! A quick rock pond.

 

 

32. Flat Slab Steps

 

 

In this rock garden, there are large flat slabs of durable stones that are all similar in size. You can incorporate these slab steps to create a nice slope. Include some stout greens in the garden, and you will get the ideal hangout spot for a calm afternoon.

 

 

33. Contrasting Spiral Rock Garden

 

 

 

In this idea, dark-colored pebbles can be seen everywhere in the rock garden. Also, there is a need to acquire some white stones from landscaping stores. It may be a bit pricey for most people, but it is also a beautiful sight to behold and is fairly easy to create. The contrasting properties that the pebbles and the stones add to the garden create visual interest.

 

 

34. Desert-Inspired Small Rock Garden

 

 

 

What is the most obvious sign that rocks confer? The barren and tough surface ridden with such appearance, no, something more like a desert! In this rock garden, some succulent plants are fitted in the space between the rocks to make it look like a desert.

 

 

35. Small Rock Garden On A Low Hill

 

 

 

Of all sloped rock garden ideas, this is one you must try. Have yourself a small rock garden on a low hill. When you are creating this rock garden, you may like to casually place the plants and the stones and fit them in such a way that the overall appearance looks great.

 

36. Small Brook Rock Garden

 

 

Lots of rock garden fans love to see water in their garden. This rock garden type is ideal for large gardens, plus it also features a small water brook that adds some beauty to your garden. It is also a suitable option for small waterfall style and sloping gardens.

 

 

37. A Rocky Entryway

 

 

This excellent rock garden idea requires a bit more time and effort than the rest. It is characterized by a rocky entryway that is smooth to the touch. With the help of someone a bit skillful or at best, an expert, you’ll have something nice at the end of it all.

 

 

38. Rock Garden with Waterfall

 

 

There is no denying the fact that almost everyone on the planet desires something as natural and soothing as seeing a waterfall right by your house. The splashing sound of water as it flows down through the rock formation will definitely amaze you.

 

 

39. Rock Garden with Rock-Walled Herb 

 

 

This rock garden idea is great for even beginners. When you are done constructing this garden, you’ll not only have exceptional scenery to behold but hopefully some shade as well.

 

 

40. Japanese Zen Rocks

 

 

You don’t always have to stack your rock garden with plants and rocks! In this rock garden design, a zen feeling is created by additional props that enrich the visual sides of the garden without weighing down on its meditative appeal.

 

 

What Do You Put In A Rock Garden?

 

Rock gardens are usually unique in their components, and what would be found in one would not likely be found in another. Some factors determine what would be found in your rock garden. The location of your house and the choice of garden idea you decide to adopt, plus your budget, top the list. Below are some of the materials that feature in a rock garden:

 

 

Rocks

 

Rocks are the most common inclusions in all rock gardens. Boulders are obviously more expensive than pebbles, so when you set out to make a choice, this should also be put into consideration. The rock garden design will help you decide which kinds of rocks you should get. 

 

 

Soil

 

This is also another common inclusion in a typical rock garden. You will typically need topsoil, pebbles, and peat moss. Soil is not pricey, something that shouldn’t worry you as much because you’ll not break the bank to get it. Also, the quantity of soil you’ll need for your rock garden is dependent on its size and design.

 

 

 

Plants

 

 

 

Also, this is another less-pricey inclusion. With a few dollars, you can get a beautiful collection of plants that are rock garden-friendly, for example:

 

 

 

 

How To Make A Rock Garden

 

You should realize that creating a rock garden is very much different from a normal garden. It requires more effort and patience, but a well-planned rock garden is a reward in and of itself. A nice rock garden involves carefully-crafted plans and a thorough preparation so that you know what it is that you want and how to position yourself to achieve it.

 

 

1. Prepare Your Desired Plot of Land

 

This is the first step in the preparation of a rock garden. Root out all useless plants from the plot, and effectively mark out your garden area by making deep edges around it.

 

 

2. Carefully Plot Your Design on The Ground

 

When you do this, you’ll have an idea of how your rock garden will turn out to be before you actually start doing the main work. Inverted marking spray paint will do the trick. Also, it is important to plan out your soil and rock layers to promote good irrigation. You can also include fabric that is resistant to weeds in the areas that are prone to weed infestation.

 

 

3. Make a Choice of Your Desired Rock

 

There are stones of small sizes available in gardening and landscaping stores that you can buy. If there is a need to acquire larger stones, then you’ll need the services of stone suppliers to get them for you from their quarry. These suppliers frequently have a large collection of boulders to serve your needs, and they are by far a cheaper alternative.

 

 

4. Begin With the Large Boulders

 

This is because these big objects are the most difficult to move around. Setting these up as your foundation to builf upon sets you upd for an easier job. It is ideal to plan their places in your rock garden at the start since it isn’t practical to move them around frequently. Once they’ve been set, your collection of ornaments and the rest of your rock garden material can build upon these large boulders to complete the natural look.

 

 

5. Add the Smaller Stones or Plant All the Plants First

 

This is the very next step. You can use the crevices to fill the soil, or you can press them down to make them appear in a natural form.

 

 

As discussed above, the average Joe can create nice-to-behold rocky scenes if they can put in some level of effort and adequate planning. Following the step-by-step process and incorporating some personal touches and creativity, et voilà, you have a beautiful rock garden all to yourself!

 

 

How Do You Use Small Rocks In The Garden?

 

 

 

Most of the DIY rock gardens feature small stones as part of their build. The sheer contrast in size and the attractive connotation that small stones provide is worth knowing how to make use of them in your rock garden. After getting them from a landscaping or gardening store, you can seek experts’ help to lend you an assisting hand in placing them correctly in your rock garden. If the rock garden idea you choose to opt for is anything that you can do alone, then proceed to incorporate them at the right spot in your garden.

 

 

Location of the Rock Garden

 

When you set out to create a rock garden for yourself, one thing should be obvious to you. They are usually permanent structures, so you ought to be careful in choosing the proper site to position them. The location of your rock garden can either be at the corners of your house, or in one suitable location in your backyard. If you are confident in yourself that you are ready and have the experience of creating one for yourself, then you may like to try out rock gardens for higher hills and larger spaces, if you have the resources.

 

 

Feel of the Rock Garden

 

A good choice of rocks for your rock garden and where to place them will positively affect the appearance of your garden and the feeling you’ll experience anytime you visit it. For a natural and casual appeal, irregular rocks paired with random groupings of rocks are definitely a suitable option. But then, if you want an elegant and cleaner appeal, rocks or smooth pebbles that come in equally shaped sizes will get the job done perfectly.

 

Where Can I Get Free Rocks For Landscaping?

 

Help A Farmer

 

For farmers, a rocky field can pose a nightmare. To this end, you may like to find any farmer that you can assist in removing the rocks from his field. They would be more than happy to have a helping hand, as it is a win-win situation for both of you. If the odds turn in your favor, you may find the sufficient quantity of rock you need for your garden.

 

 

Check Construction Sites

 

Locate a construction site that is currently being excavated, and try getting some rocks from there. Most construction workers would be happy giving you those rocks because they can sometimes pose as a distraction for them.

 

 

Discuss with Road Construction Crews

 

Do you know any big road construction project where there is an active blasting of rocks? Get in touch with the job foreman and have a chit-chat with him. You may be surprised to see that you’ll get your rocks for free.

 

 

Go Shop It

 

When house owners visit their yard work during the spring, some rocks get hauled into the curb. During a Sunday afternoon drive, you may get to see some rocks that will add beauty to your garden on a lonely site in the neighborhood. While free alternatives are aplenty, quality may vary largely from rock to rock. Paid options, on the other hand, guarantee consistently good quality to make building that perfect garden easier. Here are the best garden rocks you can get today.

 

Top 3 Garden Rock Choices

 


Premium CHOICE

Margo Garden Products Large Red Rocks

 

Check Latest Price


Value Buy

Royal Imports Decorative Garden Rocks

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TOP Pick

Southwest Boulder & Stone Mexican Beach Pebbles

Check Latest Price

 

Go Rockhounding

 

This is the hobby of looking for and picking rocks: rockhounding. Even though this hobby is not entertained in national parks, most properties handled by the Bureau of Land Management and most national forests allow it. Without having a permit, it is possible to pick up to 250 pounds of rock in a single day in Utah. Now, that’s a lot of free rocks.

 

 

Shop at Craigslist and Freecycle

 

This store may be the next best alternative for you when you go all out to get some nice free rocks. But you should frequently check both sites, and take proactive steps when the offer presents itself.

ideas for using stone in the garden

Decorating the landscape with stones is a true Japanese tradition with a special philosophy and symbolism. But even without a deep meaning, you can arrange a beautiful stone composition in front of the house or in the garden. Although it is necessary to know the principles and features of this method of decoration, especially for those who want to transform the site with their own hands. What is a rock garden? Plants are also used, but as an additional element.

Japanese symbolism manifests itself in this decor with special options for laying stones. So, compositions in the form of sacred animals are common: the crane symbolizes the inner height to which everyone should strive, and the turtle - longevity.

Stacking of stones in groups of 3 is explained by the characteristic triad of Buddhism. Another feature is the leveling of the site with a rake, forming grooves directed along the long side of the site and around groups of stones in the form of a circle. It symbolizes waves and islands. The legends often talk about such unusual islands, on which all living things are immortal.

Options for using stone in landscaping in a country house

Gardens and cottages are decorated with stone, making them not only a Japanese garden, but also other options for landscape decoration, for example:

Features of choosing stones for a garden There are several principles for the formation of a rocky garden.

They are expressed in a harmonious combination of the following characteristics:

Stony garden goldstone

It is not so difficult to take into account these rules if you first draw up a composition plan. To do this, it is important:

Stone placement tips

Usually a stone landscape composition is made up of an odd number of cobblestones and minerals, as well as vegetation. Greens are planted at different levels. All this is surrounded by a lawn and paths lined with pebbles or bricks are added, as well as small sculptures or bridges. Orient the garden in an east or south direction, choosing a place that is dimly lit by the sun's rays.

Alpine slide

Also, when placing minerals on the site, the following rules must be taken into account:

The most common arrangement of stones is the formation of a scalene triangle of connected objects.

How to make a rock garden

You can build a rock garden on a plot of any size. If there is very little free territory, then it can be a mini-garden.

To work, you need a pre-drawn plan for the location of stones and plants, and the material itself.

Site selection and preparation

The main purpose of a stone garden is to create a place for relaxation, rest and solitude. Therefore, it is better to equip it in a corner of the site that is hidden and not visible from the windows. If the landscape design already has a reservoir or it is planned, then next to it it is advisable to choose a place for a rock garden.

The shape of the garden does not have to be geometrically precise. Round, square, rectangular borders are not the best solution. It is good to make the composition uneven and asymmetrical, to fit it into the natural landscape. The preparation of the base is carried out as follows:

  1. Clear the area from debris, remove weeds.
  2. Mark the contour, create a fence along it - lay out the bars, make a retaining wall for the structure on the slope.
  3. Prepare the soil - cover the site with a film, pour a layer of gravel or sand up to 5 cm thick on top, level the surface with a rake.

In this version, plants are planted along the fence and only complement the composition. If they are needed inside the composition, between the boulders, then when preparing the site, it is not necessary to lay the film. Its purpose is to protect against weeds.

Stone placement and decor

Free-form boulders with traces of nature, such as moss-covered or water-washed areas, are suitable. They need to be arranged according to a pre-planned plan. You can form groups of three cobblestones that differ in both shape and size, or place the stones singly. Usually the largest of them is placed first and considered to be the center of the composition. Other elements are already being arranged from it.

It is important that each stone is viewed from all sides.

Additionally, the composition is decorated with bridges, statues and other elements.

But the garden looks good without them, but only with drawings on the base and paths. Patterns are applied to a leveled area of ​​gravel or sand, using a rake with teeth of various shapes and thicknesses.

Paths are made if a large area is allocated for the garden. Suitable for them:

It is better not to make the shape of the tracks clear and straight. A rock garden needs smooth lines, curves, widening and narrowing paths in different places.

Plants in a rock garden

Greenery is used to enliven the garden. But it should not be much, because the plants only complement the whole composition and make it more natural. Suitable different cultures:

Trees and shrubs are planted before the site is prepared for gardening. But you can do this later or put the plants in pots. Large ceramic flowerpots are matched to the tone of the stones used, and small pots can be masked with pebbles or gravel.

Coniferous plants are most successfully combined with stones. Since the garden is recommended to be done in hidden places, these are often shaded corners. Therefore, the plants must also be shade-tolerant, for example, yew or tuevik . You can also plant dwarf spruces of different varieties. They also grow well in the shade and are suitable for landscaping a rock garden - ferns.

Gravel garden

It is planted in a slightly shaded area with moderately moist soil. Landscape irregularities do not need to be removed, since the garden is completed at landscape style and fits into the existing nature. The shape of the composition is usually uneven, with slight curves and no sharp corners.

To create such a garden, you need to make:

Planting is more important for this garden than for the Japanese one. If in the second, plants only complement the stones and usually sit only outside the perimeter of the composition, framing it, then for the second, more greenery can be used. A good solution is a year-round flowering garden. An approximate set of plants for him can be as follows:

In order for all plants to take root and develop well, it is important to follow the planting rules:

In the first year of development, perennials should be watered abundantly, and later every few days, as gravel retains water well

The main stages of work in the arrangement of any garden are:

  • site preparation;
  • gravel or sand fill;
  • laying of cobblestones;
  • landscaping.

    • Some activities are excluded, such as laying cobblestones for rock garden. A stone garden is a beautiful element of landscape decor in front of the house, in the country house, in the garden. Creating a simple composition is easy. Since there are several varieties of the garden, surface irregularities and other features of the relief are used to create an unusual and natural composition.

    Alfira Sagitova

    Landscape designer

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    video instruction how to do it yourself, features of decorative crafts, decoupage, photo

    Your own suburban area gives you the opportunity to fully show your creative abilities and realize your dreams. One of them may well be a DIY rock garden that you can build thanks to our recommendations. In addition, in the article we will talk about its miniature version.

    In the photo - how to make a desktop stone garden and at their summer cottage

    General

    Simulating the natural landscape of mountain slopes with the help of rocky gardens is one of the most popular ways to arrange country plots and gardens. These are retaining walls, and steps made of wild stone, on which greenery has already clearly appeared. It is considered a special skill to create a composition in such a way that it merges with part of the mountain landscape, seems old and long abandoned.

    Decorative garden stones create a wonderfully calm atmosphere

    Often, a Japanese stone garden is combined with an artificial pond, waterfall or stream in a summer cottage. This makes it possible not only to install an aesthetic element on the territory, but also to solve the problem of space on the site.

    The main prerogative of stone gardens is:

    • creation of a secluded cozy place in a small area;
    • division of the site into separate zones;
    • hide unattractive objects.

    The instruction permits the erection of artificial structures and the full use of the natural unevenness of the relief, which is often considered the shortcomings of the site. Therefore, you can get a beautiful stone garden even in the most unsuitable area.

    For example, if the slope of a ravine or a ditch spoils the entire suburban area with its appearance, they can be used as the basis for rockeries or rock gardens, which we will help you create.

    Species

    Although there are several types of rock gardens, they have a main idea that unites them: flowers and plants are planted among the rocks on the mountain slope. Thanks to this, a spectacular combination of stone and flora is created, complementing each other.

    We arrange stones in the garden in the form of a rock garden

    The most popular and widespread is a stone garden in the form of an alpine slide or rock garden. It is an artificially created hill with stones or a natural slope, where herbaceous plants and shrubs “emerge” between the cobblestones (the main element). The latter serve as an addition to the blocks and emphasize their color and texture.

    Initially, undersized perennials and various bulbous plants were used for artificial alpine slides. Currently, various types of plants and flowers are grown in rock gardens, guided only by their own taste.

    It is not difficult to create, but it will take a long time to work. The rock garden differs from the classic flowerbed with annuals, as they function for several years, getting better every year.

    Crafts for a rock garden will look interesting

    How to create a Japanese-style rock garden

    Contemplation and gradual unity with nature, a special philosophy of life, the desire for naturalness, symbolism and minimalism - this is what a Japanese stone garden is.

    If you are tired of the riot of colors and variety, make a quiet corner on the site where you can simply:

    • relax;
    • relieve stress;
    • meditate alone;
    • calm down.

    You don't need to prepare carefully to create a site, as the basic requirements for it are minimal.

    Detailed recommendations will be given below:

    1. Start a Japanese garden by choosing a site and planning the site.
    2. Make good soil drainage with your own hands, select an area with optimal sunlight and ventilation.
    3. The most important elements are water and stones. But, everything should be done as close to natural outlines as possible, so do not arrange the pond in the form of a square, as these are not usually found.

    You can make your own artificial garden stones

    Tip: every little thing must be taken into account, keep a special harmony in the choice of elements, so that the final result will please you.

    1. The space should not be cluttered, strive for symmetry and harmony.
    2. Decide in advance - you will use plants only in the warm season or it will be a winter garden, then its price may be higher.
    3. When choosing materials for a recreation area, follow a number of specific rules:
      • cobblestones should preferably be of the same variety, so we recommend taking 2-3 large stones rather than a mountain of small ones;
      • the basis is large material;
      • small use to emphasize it;
      • do not bury cobblestones deep into the ground - keep naturalness;
      • Stand the stone straight without digging it deep into the ground.

    Alternatively, you can install the main boulder in the center of the plot, and a slightly smaller one along its edges. This will allow us to identify our plans with the triad in Buddhism.

    The Japanese stone garden, unlike other options, also serves as a place for meditation. You can brag about it to your friends, relax in it, get rid of stress, find peace and achieve inner harmony.

    Stone painting for the garden will brighten up even the gloomiest day

    Rockery

    Another variant of the rock garden, which experts recommend to begin with inexperienced gardeners. Unlike an alpine hill, the area here is flat and few plants are usually planted on it. The decorative effect rests on the beauty of the stone.

    We recommend filling the free space between individual stone fragments with a layer of gravel, which will effectively shade the stone. For example, light gravel and dark cobblestone are successfully combined, and multi-colored river pebbles with light limestone.

    Tip: Place a fertile layer of soil under the pebbles to provide nourishment for the plant's root system.

    It happens that rockeries have an architectural form. For example, it represents steps made of flat large stones that frame creeping plants characteristic of mountainous areas.

    Tip: You can create complex terraced rockeries when the natural topography of the area contains a slope that faces the rock surface.
    This will be able to combine all natural objects - stone material, shrubs and plants planted next to it.

    Decoupage on garden stones is also of interest

    Stone garden elements

    To improve the territory, you must also have:

    Retaining wall
    1. A common element of a rocky garden.
    2. Set up as a support for a terrace.
    3. In the first place - functionality, in the second - decorative.
    4. Unpretentious plants are planted in the cracks between the blocks.
    5. Structures allow for vertical gardening of the site, as well as dividing it into separate zones.
    6. Very often included in the alpine slide.
    Terrace
    1. Complicated view of a stone garden.
    2. Retaining walls of different heights serve as reinforcement.
    3. The system usually consists of the following elements:
      • retaining wall;
      • alpine slope;
      • stone steps.

    Create a terraced garden on the slope of a ravine, river bank or slope. You can choose a variety of plants for the country garden and their combinations. Usually these are dwarf trees and shrubs, as well as climbing herbaceous plants. Heathers, ericas and undersized rhododendrons are often found.

    Small rock garden

    Miniature rock garden is a relatively new element in landscape design. It has become widespread in small areas or if it needs to be equipped for a short time.

    Sometimes its base is a stone of an interesting shape, which has a natural depression. You can also use an old basket, a trough, or a specially made hole in the ground. Such a bizarre structure is even made in portable containers and placed in a convenient place, for example, on a home terrace.

    Mini stone garden you can install anywhere

    Their originality lies in the complete imitation of the appearance of an alpine slide or rockery. Super-dwarf plants, mosses and lichens are selected for such mini-gardens. The same applies to stone material, which should also be miniature.

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