Japanese Garden
Japanese Gardens: Tranquil Beauty for Your Totnes Home
Posted by Kevin | Totnes Gardening
Hi, I’m Kevin. With over 20 years of horticultural experience in the South Hams—including two formative years at Dartington Hall Gardens—I have always had a deep passion for the balance and serenity of Japanese design.
This week’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 has truly highlighted this aesthetic again. The breathtaking Japanese tea gardens on display were hailed as “flawless” by Monty Don, and for good reason. In a busy world, we all crave that profound sense of calm.
But you don't need to be at Chelsea to experience this. You can bring that "flawless" calm to your own back garden here in Totnes.
🌳 Why Japanese Gardens Work in Totnes
Japanese gardens are not just about style; they are about working with nature. At Dartington, I learned that the best landscapes feel effortless yet intentional.
Uniquely, our Totnes climate is perfect for this style. Our rainfall (800–1000 mm a year) and mild winters allow the key elements—lush moss, ferns, and Acer palmatum—to thrive with very little intervention.
🌿 Bringing "Devon Zen" to Your Home
My approach blends traditional Japanese techniques with our local ecology. I call it "Devon Zen."
Eco-Friendly Planting: I pair non-invasive Japanese plants (like Irises and Maples) with Devon natives (like Primrose) to create a beautiful aesthetic that also supports our local bumblebees.
The "Quiet" Touch: A Zen garden should never be disturbed by noise. I maintain these spaces using 100% Battery-Powered Technology, ensuring your sanctuary stays peaceful even while I work.
Minimalist Design: Whether it is a gravel courtyard or a woodland nook, these designs are low-maintenance by nature, perfect for busy lifestyles.
⛩️ From Dartington to Your Doorstep
My time at Dartington Hall taught me to let nature lead. Whether you want to install a Quiet Water Bowl, sculpt your trees using Niwaki (Cloud Pruning), or simply create a gravel path for reflection, I can help you shape a space that feels right.
Chelsea 2025 showed us the magic of these spaces. Let’s bring that magic to your home.
Ready to create your sanctuary?
I am currently taking bookings for Japanese Garden consultations and designs.
