Since we live in a multicultural place with a great variety of climatic and geographic expressions, we can create almost anything in our gardens. Orchids, bromeliads and other epiphytes and lithophytes are perfect for gardens lacking in soil. We also have an abundance of lava rock!
In many other parts of the world, rock and water elements are used in the landscape to create a natural feeling and add interest to the design. Balinese gardens usually include not only naturalistic forms, but often, sculptured elements as well. In Japan, the stone water basins that stand outside the teahouses are an example of rock and water used on a small scale. In almost any garden, the gentle sound and sight of water running over cool stones is refreshing.
Here on the Volcano Island, we have fantastic rock formations with which to work, and we have sufficient water to create outstanding landscapes. Many of the newer developments in West Hawaii are using the rough and rugged lava fields that can be experienced by visiting some of the resorts along the coast of West Hawaii.
Unfortunately, the typical lots being developed are quickly cleared with no thought to the natural lay of the land.
If you are considering incorporating rock and water elements into your landscape, there are several ways to expand your imagination. Of course you could take a trip to Bali or Japan, but a less expensive way is to check out what other local landscape designers have created at sites like Kona Village Resort, Four Seasons, Waikoloa, Hapuna or the Mauna Kea Beach Hotels for example. You might think these places are too expensive for the average pocketbook, but luckily the beaches are open to the public. You can enjoy the beauty of rock and water gardens nearby or you might splurge and have a meal at one of the many restaurants. Breakfast and lunch are reasonably priced.
Another way to get ideas is to check out the numerous books on the subject at local libraries and bookstores. Many private and public gardens utilize natural rock and water to create a peaceful effect. Of course, there are numerous landscape architects and landscape contractors who can assist you as well.
Before you start to work, here are some tips to help you avoid mistakes. A rock and water garden may be located in a sunny exposed area but shade is usually better. Sunny locations require plants that tolerate intense sun and even drought. Cool and shady locations allow for a greater selection of plant materials that fit a water garden setting. Of course if you live in an area where it rains for weeks at a time, you might want to select a sunny spot for your creation. There are always exceptions to the rule.
In selecting rock, avoid little piles. Use large boulder types where possible. Our native lava is beautiful, but may weigh several hundreds of pounds. It takes heavy equipment to move these types or lots of guys with muscles. Watch out for your back and maybe a lawsuit if someone gets hurt. You will probably be better off contacting a contractor who has the kind of equipment you need.
Placing rock takes a special talent, but if you are good at placing furniture just right, then you shouldn’t have to much trouble. Guys, if your wife is the one with the artistic eye and she has you moving the furniture back and fourth a dozen times before it is right, then watch out for her rock placing practices! Place the rocks so that there will be little nooks and crannies for planting as well as an interesting pattern for water flow.
Pool construction need not be difficult or expensive with the new material available. Obviously, you need a water proof basin in which to hold the water. This can be constructed with concrete and wire mesh for a permanent pool or you may use a heavy polyethylene plastic for one that is less permanent. I experimented with a small eight by fifteen foot pool using ten mil plastic four layers thick.
It is 10 years old and still holds water, fish and water plants with a minimum of care. The total cost of the pool was about $50.
To move water and create a cascade or flow, you will need a small circulating pump. A good one may be purchased for less than two hundred dollars. Some folks just camouflage a garden hose and run water over the rock formation when they have company or are just in the mood.
Once you have your water garden in order, consider growing water lilies and other interesting water plants. You can’t beat water lilies for adding a flare of brilliant color to garden ponds. They may even be grown in big tubs, pots or urns filled with water.
Tropical water lilies surpass our more common types for their spectacular flower size. The colors range from shades of blue and purple to unusual orange tints. You can grow day blooming types combined with night bloomers for 24-hour enjoyment.
Many other aquatics may be grown as well. Lotus, papyrus, water lettuce and hyacinths all add to the enjoyment of a water garden.
To avoid mosquito problems, you should add mosquito eating fish, a few frogs and toads, some bug eating lizards, and before you know it you have created your own little ecosystems to enjoy.
Norman Bezona is professor emeritus, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.
