Whether gardening in a large space or a small patio, there are some elements to consider if you want to be able to call it a Feng Shui garden. Size does not matter, but intention and layout does. The first consideration in a Feng Shui garden is to determine the overall feeling or theme you want to express. Do you want to use the garden for quiet-time or to be inspired? Is it your intention to create an outdoor space where friends and family can gather? Even if your gardening efforts are confined to a very small spot on the deck, think about what you want to create. Fairy gardens are intended to be small but that doesn’t make them less engaging.
Here are some additional elements to consider whether you’re designing a large back-yard or a small pot.
Water. In line with the concept of “wind and water,” having water in a garden is a natural. If a pond doesn’t seem like the right fit or feels like it would be too much work, a fountain could be integrated into your garden or a bird-bath. If having water is out of
the question, then a dry bed may be the right answer.- Place to sit. The point of having a place to sit is so you can absorb the energy of the garden, relish the view and assess the next leg of the journey. A rock or tree stump could provide this element or a bench or hammock would also work.
- Curvy Path. In your Feng Shui garden you should provide an effortless and enticing indication of where to go. A path of flagstones, chips, or round pavers will work as will a foot-worn path. Making it curvy implies a slower pace where ambling and lingering are appropriate. If your garden is small, you can still create a path that the eye will follow.
These photo
s are all from our garden. Its exquisite beauty and strength come solely from the labor of my husband Tom who is a master gardener. His efforts have paid off since he was selected to be part of the Hennepin Co. Master Gardener Tour on July 13. If you want to come see his masterwork and the work of others, register here.
By Carole Hyder
Wind & Water School of Feng Shui Founder, Faculty and International Feng Shui Expert
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