Rockin' Rock Gardens

by Green Acres Nursery

www.GreenAcresVista.com

Rock features are some of the world's most striking natural wonders. But

when Chimney Rock is in the backyard it's not so inspiring. Mountain tops

and rocky glades produce some of the most amazing specimens, from

weather-beaten junipers to tiny alpine flowers that the mountain top climate

has evolved some incredibly unique plants. Alpine plants love rugged

conditions and infertile soil, making them the best choices for rock gardens

or converting an uneven outcropping into an attractive landscape.

Natural rock formations are all unique but they do follow certain rules.

Rocks are never randomly placed, they are consistent geological features

formed by the continuous movement of glaciers. Round rocks are usually river

rocks that have been smoothed by water. Alpine and cliff rocks are more

angular. Find cubes and natural slabs that can be buried so it looks like

they are naturally protruding from the ground. Use local stone whenever

possible, to blend with the landscape. Study local rock formations, noting

the grain of the rocks, positioning of cracked segments, and mixture sizes.

Mimicking nature when placing rocks and choosing plants will make the most

effective rock garden.

The first step when planning a rock garden should be to consider the

logistics of importing tons, literally, tons, of rocks that must be

delivered, then moved into place individually, while considering the

placement of the rocks in relation to each other. Move very large boulders

with a forklift. Always talk to a professional about the logistics of your

property before committing to a project.

When planning the layout of a rock garden, consider the terrain of your

property. For level areas it might be necessary to raise-up part of the

ground into a berm where the rocks can be buried. Alternatively, rocks can be

buried below the ground level imitating a natural outcropping. Properties

with a natural slope have a few more options for laying out a rock garden. A

hill can be terraced and connected by a meandering rock path or thin slabs

can be wedged into a hill, making a natural planter. A slope is also great

for giving the rock garden a little bit of shade.

Choose rocks that are large enough to be one-third buried. Rocks need to be

stable so the garden can be weeded and maintained. Rocks will naturally move

as the soil heaves, so it's important to have the rocks securely installed

or it can be dangerous not only to the plants but to visitors as well. Once

the rocks are stable, fill in the cracks and spaces with planting mix, a

blend of topsoil, compost and grit, water in the mix, allowing all the nooks

and crannies to be filled. Continue adding planting mix until the soil is

stable and ready to be planted.

Choose compact plants that are heat and drought tolerant. Compact and

prostrate evergreens are excellent choices for trees and shrubs in rock

gardens. Mediterranean herbs like lavenders and thymes are excellent choices.

Perennials that do well in rock gardens include carex, fescue, dwarf fountain

grass, penstemon, verbena, and veronica. Succulents and cacti also do well

and include aloes, agaves, euphorbias, sedums, and sempervivums.

For more information on Rock Gardens visit Green Acres Nursery at

www.GreenAcresVista.com