Have you ever stopped and looked at a beautiful building with even more beautiful gardens? Have you ever wondered whether this is a park or a commercial / residential building? And the credit for such eye catching features goes not only to the architecture of the building but also to the surroundings. So what is landscape gardening all about?
It is basically a relatively new theory which tries to take care of the Earth’s landscapes in a creative, holistic and sustainable manner. It encompasses arts, sciences and various technical philosophies and practices in order to create a landscape which is in harmony with the surroundings and is appealing to the eye.
Landscape gardening is pretty similar to gardening but there lies one major difference between the two of them. Both arts are concerned with the ways in which planting, landform, water, paving and other erecting structures can be done. But whilst gardening deals with private spaces such as parks, private gardens , landscape gardening deals also with unenclosed or public spaces such as town squares, country parks, greenways, golf courses etc.
Landscape gardening requires knowledge and expertise in various fields such as biology, zoology, soil science and plant symbiosis. It is only then that a dry, unusable piece of land can be transformed into a magnificent garden. It is the hard work of the landscape gardener who makes a designer garden which is unique in its own way, has the creativity of the designer, keeps in mind the requirements of the client and is in sync with the environment and surroundings.
If you thought landscaping is done only on the ground, it is time to think again because nowadays, landscape gardens adorn the city’s roofs too. Apart from the obvious landscaping, it helps reduce pollution, reduce storm water run off, increase thermal insulation and life of the roofs.
Whatever and wherever the landscaping is done, there is definitely an edge over the other areas which are not landscaped. Many landscaped buildings have become major tourist attractions. It should be the endeavour of the builder to landscape the area around the structure being constructed. It will go a long way in providing the much needed greenery to this planet apart from being pleasing to the eye.
The nature lovers often dream of rising with the dawn, surrounded by chirping birds and listening to the sound of flowing water. The dream can be chased. You can have your own landscape garden at the backyard of your house and feel close in the arms of Mother Nature.
Landscape gardens not only make your house look beautiful but also bring many positive energies at your door steps, as many experts says. Gardening is an art of meditation. It is a way of preserving greenery. For many elderly people, homemakers and nature admirers, landscape gardening is the best way of spending their time. Many people familiar with the basics of plants and fertilisers, makes this hobby a profession.
So as to develop a garden at your place, a little planning is required. First step would be deciding about the area you want to allot for gardening. If you are doing the job by yourself, you should be equipped and familiar with the garden tools.
Pre decide the plants and bulbs you want in your garden. For a blossoming garden, a correct choice of seasonal and perennial flowers as well as proper fertilizers has to be made. Moreover, one should acquire knowledge about the basic requirements of each plant like when and how to water, when to put medicines and fertilizers etc. so that the plants dwell well in the garden. Depending upon the sun and shade requirements of the plants, choose a proper place for them in your garden. If you are not that familiar with the subject, it is always advisable to appoint a professional landscape gardener who will give you the desired results while saving a lot of your time.
Once the bulbs are planted, the garden can be further decorated using accessories like bird houses, bird feeders, bird baths etc thus inviting many families of these colourful creatures to your backyard. Other collections like garden gates, fences, plant stands etc further enhances the look of your favourite hang out. If water supply and space is not a problem then fountains and artificial ponds make your landscape accomplished. A swing set in this part of your house promise some most cherished moments with your close ones.
Admiring the butterflies over the fresh buds is something you always wanted to do, but do not forget about the biting insects that come along. While in the garden, do not forget to wear your insects repelling accessories. Do apply your suntan cream and wear your sunglasses if you are motherly treating your plants.