The Basics of Rock Gardening
Few can deny the alluring effect that rock gardens bring into the home. Rock gardening is simply the mixture of garden rocks and any of the many special plant species in your backyard. Some rock gardens are built in naturally rocky parts to capitalize on the natural landscape. Others are designed around one existing rock feature, or rocks may be imported to the gardens for the sole purpose of installing a rock garden. Also known as alpine gardens or rockeries, rock gardens are particularly popular in areas with limited water availability. The tradition of rock gardening originated from Asia. In Asia, rock gardens were an important part of the Asian art, with each plant and rock being carefully placed. These gardens were often associated with monasteries and wealthy homes. During the 17th century, this practice reached Europe, and gardeners started creating their own versions. Generally, rock gardens blend easy to grow plants with a rock arrangement of different colors, sizes and ...