About Japanese-Style Water Features
A Japanese garden is a haven for serenity and relaxation. Through thoughtful design of a variety of natural elements, Japanese gardens combine plants, rocks, animals and water in masterful combinations. Water features are often used as a focal point in a Japanese garden, whether its a simple bamboo fountain or an elaborate koi pond. You can incorporate Japanese-style water features into just about any setting to evoke feelings of peace and harmony. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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A water feature is a landscape installation that facilitates the movement and redistribution of water. These features are generally small and use a small circulating pump to keep water moving throughout the feature. Most water features are easily installed and require little skill to set up. Japanese-style water features are those landscape additions that re-create traditional water features found in classic Japanese gardens. Whether the water features are authentic reproductions or modern creations made to simulate ancient Japanese-style water features, they allow the gardener the joy of bringing in moving water to a garden setting.
Types
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A bamboo fountain, known as "kakei," can be positioned next to a pond, water garden, or garden pot. The traditional kakei is made of real bamboo pieces formed into a T, with the spout cut at an angle that allows the water to trickle out and into a receptacle. The deer chaser, or "shi shi odeshi," was originally developed by Japanese farmers to keep deer and other hungry creatures from the vegetable gardens. The deer chaser water feature consists of a see-saw style bamboo receptacle that fills with water. The end rhythmically knocks at a stone or clay basin below it. A Japanese water pond or water garden features a natural looking environment with carefully chosen plants, grasses, rocks, fish and waterfalls that create a harmonious blend of soothing water sounds and visually pleasing water elements.
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Benefits
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In most Asian cultures water has a symbolic and spiritual meaning. The Japanese believe that water brings serenity into a space and also symbolizes purity. Besides the spiritual benefits of a water feature in your garden, it provides a psychological benefit. Water features are aesthetically pleasing to look at and provide movement in an often still environment. The sound of water is soothing to many and can reduce stress and calm frazzled nerves. A water feature also can cover up unpleasant sounds from neighboring areas. Some Japanese-style water features can increase the humidity in a garden area as well, particularly beneficial in a dry climate.
Considerations
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When it comes time to introduce a Japanese-style water feature into your landscape, it's important to consider four things. First evaluate where you want the water feature. Things to consider are a proximity to an electric source and the sound of the water feature to both garden seating or your home. Secondly determine the type of water feature you are interested in. The size of the site and other elements nearby will help you decide which Japanese water feature will best suit your landscaping. Thirdly examine your budget to ensure you are spending what you plan. Finally ensure that you are able to install the Japanese water feature, either alone or with help. Adding a Japanese-style water feature to your landscape can be a simple weekend project or a more labor-intensive effort.
Warning
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When incorporating Japanese-style water features into an outdoor living space, take special consideration of children and pets. While some Japanese water features pose little threat to the safety of pets and children, others can be hazardous. Take safety precautions when incorporating a filled basin, pot or water garden by installing a strong wire mesh just below the water's surface. This will prevent a child or pet from falling in. Other safety issues to consider are exposed electrical systems and pets or children drinking the untreated recirculated water.
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