Expert: John-Paul Friend - 4/13/2004

Question
I would like to create a rock garden on a flat piece of ground adjoining a driveway.  I have tried many types of other landscapes but nothing has worked due to the lack of sun on the area.  I would like to know some tips acout this type of look on flat ground and is there anything I should do to make it more attractive.  Thanks

Answer
Hi, and thanks for your question. A rock garden will grow well in shade with the right choice of plants! With all rock gardens, it is important to try to make them look as natural as possible. Have all of the rock strata running in one direction, etc. A good way to get some inspiration is to visit a local rocky cliff or outcrop and see how it is done in nature, take some photographs or sketches and try to follow these. A normal mistake with a rock garden is to create a 'currant bun' effect, by randomly placing stones in any order, again the chances of this happening will be lessened if the above tips are used. The aesthetic beauty is down to your own opinion. Again, try to view other examples and take phots/sketches to aid you. Some people prefer the look of rocks and some prefer lots of vegetation, ts your choice. I hope this has been some help, if you have any other questions, please dont hesitate to get back in touch.