Japanese and Zen Gardens by Russell B. Chard

Author:Russell B. Chard
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781909908024
Publisher: Zenibo Marketing Ltd
Published: 2013-04-15T00:00:00+00:00

The general rules of thumb for placing Buddha statues in a Zen garden (or a Japanese garden) is facing north. South facing is not recommended as it is related to Yama a Hindu god and select in the dead. The Buddah statue is usually placed in a Lotus pool.

MOSS

Moss may not always be included in a Zen Garden, yet quite a few seem to embrace its use. Grasses, perennial plants, bamboo and ivy will usually accompany moss, forming a stunning motif of contrasting earthy colours. The Silver Temple in Kyoto is a stunning example of a mossy Zen Garden. The western part of Kyoto is also filled with moss-adorned gardens, the most striking of all being the Saiboji Temple or “Moss Temple”. Ninety different types of mosses are incorporated in the garden.

Moss, however, is generally difficult to cultivate and comes in various forms and sizes. It requires far less maintenance than grasses but is very particular on where it likes to grow; areas populated with weeds and general debris like decaying leaves are simply out of the question, as they interfere with its growth. Shaded and semi-shaded areas of a garden space on the other hand are best because they retain moisture for most varieties of moss.

Moss is resilient to both cold and damp weather, as it exploits any nutrients that may surround it. These nutrients are usually absorbed through its leaves, which simultaneously absorb moisture – this is the reason they cannot be covered for growth.

Types of Moss:

- Rock Cap Moss (Dicranum): This type of moss loves deeply shaded areas and is perfect for stones and rocks in a Zen Garden.

- Cushion Moss (Leukobryum Glacum): This variety has a slight sun tolerance but requires a predominantly sandy soil. It is usually light green in colour with silvery flecks.

- Hair Cap Moss (Polythirchum Commune): This kind grows in a medium-shaded area and can be placed in partial sunlight. It loves sandy and acidic soil.

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