Rock
Garden
Presented by:- Harsh Verma
[Link] 6th Sem
Introduction
• Garden planned around natural rock
formations or rocks artificially arranged
to replicate natural (often mountainous)
conditions.
• The concept of rock gardens is believed
to have been introduced from China and
Japan into the Western world in the 17th
cent.
• They have since gained wide popularity
as an ideal method for the cultivation of
mountain flora and for beautifying hilly,
stony or other awkward terrain.
Introduction
• Rock plants usually have long roots that
enable them to obtain moisture even when
the surface is hot and dry.
• Low plants requiring well-drained conditions
are suited to rock gardens: besides alpine
plants, these include stonecrops and species
of phlox, bluebell, and succulents.
• A rock garden can provide several different
habitats even in quite a small area. A rock, for
example, can be placed so that sun-loving
plants make the most of its sunny face
whereas shade-tolerant plants can nestle in
its north-facing shadow. A large garden is not
essential as it is possible to incorporate a
rock garden into all sizes of the plot.
•Aim to use the most open position, away
Choosing the from overhanging trees or tree roots, where
plants will receive sun for the greater part of
the day.
right site •It is better to have fewer hours of sun per
day than the whole day in light shade
•Choose a position where the drainage is
perfect unless you are prepared to build
raised beds or enhance drainage in other
ways.
•Sandstone is an example of a suitable
Choosing the rock, widely available, that is not too
alkaline (limestone) or hard and dense
best Rocks (granite).
•Limestone from natural ‘limestone
pavements’ was widely used.
•Choose stone in a range of to construct a
natural-looking outcrop.
•A wide range of plants called’ Alpines’ can
Plants for Rock be grown successfully, like achillea,
alyssum, azalea, begonia semperflorens,
Garden dianthus, gazania, linum, primula.
• Perennials like – phlox, saxifrage, verbena
can be grown too. Besides, one can grow
cacti, succulents, euphorbia milli, sedum,
miniature roses, lantana, and ferns.
Size
• Only when viewed in the context of the
scale of the garden & its relationship
with the neighboring rocks and other
artifacts.
• Variation in rock sizes offer greater
contrast & interest resulting in the more
dynamic arrangement of rocks.
• Rocks are traditionally classified as tall
vertical and low vertical.
Colors
• Generally bright colors are avoided.
• Color of rocks generally varies from
grey to black, and from yellow to
brick red on other hand.
Texture
• Rocks are often used to represent
islands and mountains, so conical or
dome shaped rough volcanic rocks
would be the obvious choice.(kansai)
• Hard metamorphic rocks are usually
placed by waterfalls or streams.
• A jagged textured rock gives feeling of
timelessness and dignity.
• Smooth rocks like water worn stones or
glacial boulders convey the feeling of
antiquity (ancient past) especially when
combined in an interesting shape are
used around lakes or as stepping stones.
Guidelines for
Rock Garden
• Rocks of varying sizes are used to
emphasize the contrast.
• Asymmetric arrangement of rocks is
preferred over symmetrical arrangement.
• Sometimes there is a tradition for
arranging the rocks to reflect the
philosophical concept heaven, earth and
man.
Pros of Rock Garden
•Add Structure: Rock gardens can separate different areas of a property (such as setting off a slope or raised garden bed). They can also add
height and depth.
•Versatile Design: Create a rugged rock garden with rough, irregular rocks and a formal rock garden with smooth pebbles or white gravel. A
mix of slabs, black pebbles, and white granite looks modern, while a combo of stepping stones and lush plantings adds charm.
•Year-Round Beauty: Even in the middle of the winter, rock gardens provide contrast, structure, and color to gardens.
•Low Maintenance: Rock gardens require much less maintenance than grass or flower gardens. Just don’t forget to weed and to fertilize and
irrigate any plantings.
•Long-Lasting: Rocks last longer than mulch. Unlike wood chips, you won’t need to replace them.
•Promote Drainage: Use river rocks to help protect your yard from water damage and wet spots.
•Variety: Rocks come in a ton of textures, sizes, styles, and colors.
•Pest-Resistant: Unlike mulch, rocks don’t attract ticks, termites, and other insects.
•Ideal for Arid Climates: Rock gardens are perfect in drier parts of the country, including deserts.
•Water-Conserving: You'll save water by installing a rock garden rather than turfgrass or plantings.
•Can Go Anywhere: Consider a rock garden in a part of your property that’s difficult to landscape, like rough terrain or a steep slope.
Cons of Rock Garden
•Heavy: Large rocks can be difficult to lift and set in place. You’ll likely need to hire a local landscaper for the job.
•Expensive: Some rocks are quite costly. To save money, buy in bulk and consider using more economical crushed granite, river rocks, and
pea gravel. Also, try Craigslist, Freecycle, and rock quarries when sourcing materials.
