Above—Large boulders are 
well used but not sufficiently 
embedded in the bank nor 
masked with enough greenery. 
Right —Note how naturally 
these rocks nestle together. 
tJ/ie C/Vocks 
and ^laciny * //iem 
The skill with which you place your rocks 
largely determines the success of the garden. 
Numerous sketches herein will guide you but 
experimenting with the actual rocks in the 
garden is the best teacher. Regardless of the 
kind of rocks used, study each one that it may 
be placed in the most natural position possi' 
ble. Almost without exception, the broadest 
face should be downward. 
Stratified rocks should all be placed with 
the strata running in the same general direc' 
tion. Don’t turn them up edgewise. Be sure 
all rocks rest firmly with no air pockets 
around them. As a general rule no rocks 
should project above the soil more than a 
third of their bulk. Otherwise they almost lay 
on the surface and that does not make for 
naturalness. 
Miniature ravines and cliffs are easily made 
but always keep in mind the direction of 
strata throughout and the necessity of true 
naturalness. Frequently sunken paths prove 
very desirable, especially in locations practi- 
cally level. It is not necessary to construct 
high elevations as a difference in heights of 
only a couple of feet makes an interesting 
effect. Extreme elevations lose the element of 
naturalness and this should never occur. 
“God gave all men all earth to love, 
But since our hearts are small. 
Ordained for each one spot should prove 
Beloved over all; 
That as He watched creation’s birth, 
So toe, in God-like mood, 
May of our love create our earth 
And see that it is good.” 
— Kipling. 
Above —Boulders well 
embedded in soil. They 
are not the easiest 
rocks to use but will do 
if no others are avail¬ 
able. 
Never stand rocks up on their ends like tomb¬ 
stones. They lack stability and naturalness. Such 
formations are seen in some rocky sections but they 
are looked upon as freaks and are not pleasing. 
With perfect drainage assured to a good depth, 
rocks half embedded in the surface will do well on 
level ground. 
Note that all rocks tilt back into the wall, thus 
carrying all moisture in where roots of the plants 
may utilize it. Don’t fail to have plenty of rocks in 
the soil down deep where roots of the plants can 
penetrate among them. 
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