Japanese-Inspired Gardens (Brooklyn Botanic Garden All-Region Guide)
American gardeners have a penchant for emulating gardens of other cultures--English cottage gardens, or French gardens based on the paintings of Monet--and while they may be equally enthusiastic about creating Japanese-style gardens, most go no further than the conventional "stone-pagoda-and-bamboo" school of design. Enter the latest offering in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden's renowned 21st-century Gardening series. Offering a "how-to" approach, this compilation of essays focuses on the inherent principles and practicesbehindJapanese landscape design. From creating garden paths to installing rocks and using water, the essential elements of Japanese gardens are addressed from both philosophical and practical points of view. The enthusiast is encouraged to be less concerned about a strict adherence to rules in favor of developing a deeper appreciation for technique, a greater understanding of purpose. Complemented by an extensive encyclopedia of suitable plants, this guide will enable the gardener to design a Japanese-style landscape that acknowledges its inspiration without resorting to stereotypical cliches.Carol HaggasCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved