PublishedAnness Publishing, July 2014 |
ISBN9780857233066 |
FormatSoftcover, 64 pages |
This is a delightful little book that explores one of the most beautiful and enduring styles of landscape gardening. It features all the classic designs: pond, dry, tea, stroll and courtyard, along with features on tsukubai and topiary. It includes a directory of plants detailing size, usage and flowering time, plus tips on planting and propagation.
It is a fascinating introduction to the influences and evolution of the Japanese garden, including the roles played by Buddhist monks, Zen philosophers and shoguns. The Japanese garden is full of ancient symbolism and imagery, a visual feast as well as an aural and emotional experience. This book examines the ancient influences that have brought this type of landscape gardening into the 21st century, focusing on the essential elements, both natural and man-made, of the Japanese garden. It introduces the five main styles of garden - pond, dry, tea, stroll and courtyard - explaining their significance and how they have been used in the past.
The book then covers decorative features such as dry water, topiary and tsukubai, followed by a plant directory that provides an evaluation of the plants traditionally used, with advice on flowering habits, pruning and hardiness. Beautifully illustrated with more than 80 images, this little gift book captures the essence of one of the most stylish and contemporary forms of landscape gardening.
