Standing Stones
In The Garden – By Stephen and Kristin Pategas
Durable, strong, heavy, and timeless – stone is used for foundations, walls of buildings, slate roofs, sculptures, monuments, and tombstones. Generations have been awed by the giant moai (stone statues) of Easter Island and megaliths at Stonehenge. In the landscape they also serve utilitarian purposes as privacy and
retaining walls, paving, and ornaments.
These vertical exclamation points are rare in a garden, yet they harken to the standing stones seen in many countries such as in England at Stonehenge and the nearby Avebury Circle containing the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world. Avebury Circle is partially within a real village and so accessible you can, touch, lean on, and if someone provides a boost – sit on one stone called
the “Devil’s Chair.”
In the garden, use a standing (or sentinel) stone where you wish to have the eye linger for a spell and return frequently. It is an “extreme focal point” and should have extra ordinary character including color, stature, form, and texture. A height of 42-inches (If plants in front remain low) or more above the ground will provide a strong visual impact. If other stone is used in the garden, strive to use the same type and color range to create a coordinated look.
While a standing stone can remain in its raw natural state, consider customizing it with a sandblasted graphic or house numbers for placement near the road or front door. Ramp it up by adding water. Let it drip onto it from above or emerge from the top through a hole drilled through the stone – glistening stone commands attention. As the evening sun’s glow fades, extend the drama with night lighting. With the proper angle the stone’s shadow will add interest through the night.
The best way to select a stone with character is to do it in person. Does it talk to you? However, be prepared to purchase and tag it immediately and arrange a timely delivery since tagged stones attract the eye of customers that follow, and tags may disappear.
Make sure the stone is well anchored. Depending upon the length of the stone available and the soil type, it may require a concrete footer to make sure it is stable. If the stone is shorter than desired, then rebars for placement in a concrete footer can be inserted and anchored into holes drilled into the bottom of the stone.
When vegetation and less durable materials such as wood have rotted away, the iconic stone in the garden will remain to attract the eye and stimulate the imagination.
Hortus Oasis (FL26000315) in Winter Park is a boutique garden design company specializing in residential, commercial and specialty gardens. Stephen is a registered landscape architect and Kristin is a certified landscape designer. Contact them at Hortus Oasis (FL26000315) in Winter Park is a boutique garden design company specializing in residential, commercial and specialty gardens. Stephen is a registered landscape architect and Kristin is a certified landscape designer. Contact them at 407-622-4886/ [email protected].
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