Creating a garden in an overgrown acreage can be an awesome task. Creating gardens and a Zen Forest would be even more daunting. But George Klasson and Jane Bourgeois knew they could make a tranquil space around the hills in the two-plus acres surrounding their home.
And they did. With their vision and hard work they turned this area in northern Johnson County into a peaceful, natural sanctuary, surrounded by a Zen Forest.
What exactly is a Zen forest and how does it differ from a Zen room or Zen garden? It is the same concept of peace, simplicity, and tranquility, only bigger, wider, and taller and inclusive of nature from the smallest plant to the largest trees that frame the area between.
Jane and George enjoy the birds that settle in the trees. They have sighted bald eagles, blue herons, pileated woodpeckers, robins, goldfinches, hummingbirds, and bluebirds, among many others.
More: Garden Walks with Judy: These alliums are real showstoppers
They both agree that “These avian marvels…only enhance the beauty of our haven.” Morning and evening they hear their calls and their music. Butterflies, too, love the flowers and the bats come out at sunset to keep the mosquitos and bugs in check.
George said they spent two years clearing out the underbrush and cutting down dead ash trees. Once he had opened up the canopy a sunnier landscape was created.
However, hostas are a favorite of George’s so more shade was needed. This is when he began to plant the Zen forest. Twenty-one redbud trees became the understory for the taller trees. They grow fast and tall, enough to provide needed shade. The bonus is the beautiful purple blossoms in the spring, plus the leaves are reddish brown and stay that color until they drop.
More: Garden Walks with Judy: A trip to the garden center
Once this was done about thirty tons of topsoil was brought to be spread over the area. Many stones ranging from small to several hundred pounds were placed strategically for decorations and later for extra seating around the pond.
The pond is an old rock quarry. It was well established when they moved there and was full of water then, as it is now, and covered with lily pads and beautiful yellow water irises. It is stunning!
A limestone patio was built at the bottom of a hill. A Buddha there overlooks the area with a view of the pond. It offers a place for meditation and for a gathering of family and friends.
George has planted more oak, hickory, and cedar trees to replace the dying trees he removed. Lights are strung through the trees and add a softness yet brilliance to the nighttime.
Jane is involved in all aspects of the gardens and forest, but she prefers to be the chief weeder, worker, and sometimes advisor. Her passion is really for her potted plants. She has many around the deck and yard.
More: Garden walks with Judy: March comes in warm and quiet
Both love the peonies now blooming, the hostas, flowering bushes, the lily pads, and the serenity of their own Zen Forest.
Question? Comment? Email me at Walkswithgarden@gmail.com
Judy Terry is a freelance garden writer who hopes to lead you through many fantastic gardens.
This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Garden Walks with Judy: Creating gardens and a zen forest
EMEA Tribune is not involved in this news article, it is taken from our partners and or from the News Agencies. Copyright and Credit go to the News Agencies, email news@emeatribune.com Follow our WhatsApp verified Channel
