Usually when we think of a
landscaped garden, we think of greenery, richly colored flowers and thick
foliage. But there is an altogether different perspective of landscaping that
is otherwise. This area of landscape design is known as “Dry Landscaping”. The major elements of design in dry
landscaping are stones, carved by nature, rocks, pebbles, wood, sand and clay
with a very few plants. In some designs, plants are non-existent. It is a way
of expression in which a designer can tell the tales of beauty, freeze the
running water and display naturally crafted sculptures.Frozen waterfalls,
stationary streams and static winds… it’s a story of your choice in designers’
words.
The chief element of design for a
dry landscape is stone. Stone, usually in its natural form gives a rustic look
to the scene and creates a dramatic aura. Hand crafted stones usually don’t
find place in such designs, but when they do, they are complimented either with
a water feature or by plants.
The origins of dry landscaping
can be traced back to Japanese tea gardens and monasteries. These were designed
to be viewed from the windows at a height. The aim of these gardens was to
create a feeling of solitude, serenity and detachment from the outside world.
The pathways to these gardens were quiet and led to the main area in a way that
the eye wouldn’t steal any stray glance.These gardens were designed for
meditation, to discover the inner self and to enlighten oneself. The tea houses
were designed to ward off drowsiness that might occur while meditating.The
gravel in these gardens was raked daily by the monks to give an illusion of
waves and whirlpools of water. But today,
this particular way of expression has taken care of many practical aspects. It
is probably a better choice in comparison to a grassy lawn. It demands less
time to maintain and has a less demand for water. 
Most of us are pressed
against time to take care of the lavish green gardens. Dry gardens maintain
themselves, and wild moss, if appears, gives yet another dimension to the
scenery. These landscaped gardens are easy to maintain.
Water is a very precious
resource. It must be used wisely. Dry gardens are water efficient and “green”
in ecological terms. The floor of the garden, in most cases, is covered by
pebbles or coarse aggregate. A playful arrangement of colors and levels can
form a very beautiful depiction of a calm stream frozen in time, without the
need of actual water.
Miniature plants, used to dot the
scene need very little water. Mulch adds more color to the landscape. Natural
or dyed mulch, both are used to retain moisture in the soil.
A variety of materials for the
pathways, not only adds color to the garden, but also gives a rich tactile
texture. Stone lanterns, clay crafts and garden lights, all assimilate to give
a picture perfect dry garden.
A rich design in terms of
elements, colors, textures, views and vistas changes the concept of traditional
landscaping altogether. Life is noisy. Get a niche of your house designed for
peace and serenity!
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