Zen gardens provide sense of calm to backyards

Zen gardens provide sense of calm to backyards

Zen gardens are not planned and maintained for the beauty of flowers, says Gordon Nesbitt, nursery manager at Laurel Oak Garden Center in Marlton. “You’ll use rocks, water, architectural elements like gates and lanterns and trees that are manicured,” he said.

“You’ll see more use of symbols than flowers, and trees that have a special message in Asian architecture. There may be a dogwood or a cherry tree, something flowering. It’s all about setting a tone,” Nesbitt said. “Everything is kept in check because the elements help to keep our thoughts simple and to the point.”