Gardenvisit.com The Garden Guide

Book: Gardens of Japan, 1928,
Chapter: Garden Parts And Accessories

Tree and shrub planting

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Trees and shrubs should be so planted as to partially hide the cascade-mouth to give depth. A certain tree, often a maple, should extend its branch in front of the waterfall as to receive its spray and break the monotony of the fall, but care must be taken not to completely hide it nor mar its beauty. A tree should be planted by the stone lantern to partially conceal the light with its branch, and at the back of the water basin to get the charm of its reflection on the water. A tree should be planted close to the bridge so as to conceal a part of it with its extending branch, and to the rest-arbour or the gateway to shade their roofs. Suitable trees are placed close to the wall to have a greater part of their branches thrust outside. Flowering trees, when they bloom, are most beautiful when seen at a distance beyond the verdure foreground. In order to enjoy the music of rain drops, big leafed palms are often planted near the house, though they are generally kept out of sight from main rooms, for such leaves are easily torn and broken by the storm, presenting a sight far from being beautiful.