Page 33 - Intra Muros December Issue 2023

GARDENING

HOW TO APPLY FENG SHUI IN YOUR GARDEN

By Elize Malan

eng Shui means “the way of wind birdbath or a bubbling millstone water • Colour plants are important. Use warm
and water”. It is derived from the feature will have the same benefits. reds and yellows where energy is needed,
FTaoist belief that aims to create a and use the soothing effects of blue, white
harmonious environment by balancing the Earth: Properties with natural large rocks or and purple for relaxation areas.
flow of energy, or “chi”, in a space. boulders are ideal. A separate Zen garden • Negative feelings about a plant or tree
made up of rocks, gravel, sand and no water should not be ignored. Remove the plant.
When designing a garden according to Feng is a low-maintenance solution. Thorns and spikes on plants are sometimes
Shui principles, the Bagua map (energy regarded as draining to good chi.
map) is used. This divides the garden into Metal: Wind chimes are available in all
nine life areas. Originally designed for use shapes and sizes. A water feature can be Above all, keep an open mind: Feng Shui
in the northern hemisphere, the map has to made of metal, and even a garden wall depends on how YOU feel about it.
be turned around for South African use – in painted grey will bring the energy of metal
other words, north becomes south. into a space. There is currently no scientific evidence to
support that following Feng Shui will have
The first step in Garden Feng Shui is to The above ideas should not be used any drastic effect on you as a person, but
understand the five elements: fire, wood, randomly. They should be implemented very wealthy and influential people such as
water, earth, and metal. These elements according to Feng Shui principles, with Bill Gates, Richard Branson and Christian
work together to create a balanced outdoor restraint in mind and pathways to create Dior have used the principles of Feng Shui in
space. So, for example, fire brings energy; a flow from one area to another, so that their homes and business environments.
wood represents growth; water calms and a feeling of positive energy is created. It’s
cleanses; earth stands for stability; and best to call on expert help to set up the References:
* The modern Japanese garden by Shunmyo Masuno
metal encourages clarity. garden appropriately. * The complete illustrated guide to Feng Shui by Lilian Too
* https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/design-decor/
feng-shui-garden-landscape-design
Fire: Garden lights installed along hedges Feng Shui designs are well-suited to modern * https://balconygardenweb.com/how-to-make-a-feng-
shui-garden-feng-shui-plants/
or peeking out of the space between plants minimalistic architecture, where every
can be solar or battery-operated. Setting up small detail is important, starting with the Tel: 012 804 1807
a fire pit with surrounding seats and plants view from each window. Shadows cast by Fax: 012 804 0278
creates an inviting ambience. trees or shrubs during different times of the Web: www.garden-group.co.za
day or different seasons are all considered Email: admin@garden-group.co.za
Wood: When garden trees are still small, an to be part of the complete picture.
arbor or wooden garden bench at the end
of a pathway will represent the element. Other principles include the following:
• There should be no visible clutter.
Water: There is no need for a splashing Everything should have a purpose and
fountain or a large koi pond. A small place.

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