
Ashleigh Smith

What Are Zen Gardens?
Zen Gardens originated as aids for Buddhist monks during meditation to help the mind find rest and take in the teachings of Buddha. They were incorporated into the Japanese temple gardens before becoming a more common part of Japanese life culture. The whole idea is to maintain a minimalistic representation of the natural elements of the Earth to evoke meaning and inner reflection.
As we live our lives our minds are cluttered with tasks and to do lists that are focused on trivial pursuits. This lifestyle creates dissonance between us and nature. By interacting with simple, natural elements we are able to ground our minds and create a moment of tranquility and rest. It is about creating harmony between ourselves and nature.
How To Make A Zen Garden?
Because zen gardens are really meant to aid individuals there is not a specific format for creating a zen garden. The basic components include sand, rocks/stone, and sometimes water or a few plants.
These components can be combined and organized in any way that you feel so drawn to place them. Because there aren’t traditionally any plants incorporated into these gardens you can turn those hard to plant areas into a zen oasis.
To create within your landscape it is common to create a box or contained area where the zen garden is made that is then surrounded by plants. This creates a sense of being in nature while also focusing on the basic components it is made of.
To bring these gardens indoors you can create a mini version that is perfect for any desktop. Spending even a few minutes a day raking patterns into the sand can help the mind rest and rejuvenate.
To Make A Mini Zen Garden:
- Pick a small container, we recommend using these small wood planter boxes
- Add a fine sand - traditionally white sand is used but colored sand could be used too
- Add a few smoothed rocks
- Add any other small statues, plants, etc. if you would like
- Place near your workspace
- Use a small rake to smooth the sand and create calming patterns in the sand
About the Author

I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Our Recommended Picks
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
0 Comments
No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation
Further Reading
Seed Inoculant Guide: Benefits for Legumes and Soil Health
Written By Lara Wadsworth It is common knowledge these days that healthy soil is critical for healthy plants. While Mother Nature is very good at taking care of her own, yet if you have gardened or farmed for any length of time, you know that sometimes...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-164 min read0Improve Your Cardiovascular Health with Microgreens
Written By Lara Wadsworth Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. This deadly disease is sweeping across America at an alarming rate. However, much of it ties back to lifestyle factors we can control, such as diet and exercise. Few ...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-166 min read0September Planting Guide By Zone
Written By Lara Wadsworth September gardening brings cooler air, shifting light, and new opportunities for planting and harvesting. Whether you’re in Zone 3 racing frost or Zone 10 just starting winter crops, here’s what to plant this month. Understand...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-0310 min read0Microgreens Grow Lights Guide: Best Options for Beginners & Pros
Written By Lara Wadsworth Microgreens are one of the easiest and most rewarding indoor crops to grow. They are easily grown by anyone in any situation, and they are absolutely packed with nutrition and flavor. You can harvest them in 2 weeks or less, w...
Ashleigh Smith
2025-09-037 min read1