The first time I ever attempted to create a garden of my own design was when I tried to make a rock garden for my mother on Mother’s Day. I read about how to do it in a gardening magazine and thought it was something my Mom might enjoy looking at it. I can’t say that it was much of a success, but it was fun to try to create something on my own and maybe creating a rock garden is a project that you want to consider too.
There are many good reasons to build a rock garden on your property. Sometimes the terrain will dictate that such a garden is a good idea as it could be a problem solver. For example, if you have a significant slope or hillside on your property and erosion is a problem than a rock garden could be just the thing to solve that issue. Another reason to build a rock garden is it's a low maintenance alternative to a front lawn. It can save on your water bill as well as a lot of work that goes into lawn maintenance. Whatever your reason there are some things you’ll need to consider during the planning process.
The quintessential rock garden in my mind is one that is on a slope or hillside. If that is the terrain you are working with then you’ll want to think about whether or not you want to use terraces as part of your design. Terraces help address erosion issues and bring stability to the hillside. Terraces can be created using materials such as railroad ties or retaining walls, but if you want to keep a more natural look you might be able to use larger rocks that may already be in the area. Another consideration that goes along with terracing whether you want a path or stairs that will allow better access to the garden as well as connect areas at the top and bottom of the slope.
Once you have a design in mind the next step is to consider what plants to use in your garden. This is often dictated by where you live as much as the terrain itself. For example, if you live in the mountains than you are likely to experience sunny, windy and even drought conditions during the summer as well as snowy and cold winters. Alpine plants such as small evergreens and low growing plants that don’t need a lot of water are going to be good choices for your garden. If you live in the desert southwest you might emphasize cactus and succulents. Perhaps you want an Asian garden in which case you might put thought into colors, textures, and the heights of your plants. Finally, rock gardens can sometimes be in need of some color during certain periods of the growing season so don’t forget to plant some annual flowers as well. Petunias, vinca, sweet alyssum and dianthus are often good choices for these gardens.
Regardless of the reason, you install your rock garden or what plants you use in it I promise it will provide all season interest and beauty that you will enjoy for years to come. If you already have a rock garden why not share some photos and any tips you may have on our Facebook page.
