Creating a rock garden – 20 superb examples of garden design

Want to create a rock garden? Here are 20 inspiring examples of garden design with stones.

Creating a rock garden: what kind of garden is it?

Not every site offers the conditions needed to create a rock garden. Sunny gardens facing south or east can be transformed into an exotic-looking retreat with rocks and alpine plants. If you dream of a Feng Shui-style garden, choose the soil carefully. Sandy soil is best, but if you want to create a rock garden, you can also improve the ground with pebbles. Decorate with large stones such as granite or basalt; they can frame the lawn, border flower beds, mark steps or structure the garden. Make sure large stones are stable so accidents and injuries are avoided.

Creating a rock garden: which plants fit?

Evergreen alpine plants and hardy perennials are ideal for the rock garden. Cold-resistant conifers, hanging willow and dwarf spruce attract attention and give the garden a natural look. Perennials such as edelweiss, alpine carnations or other hardy alpine flowers can be combined with herbs and fit beautifully into the overall design. If you want to create a rock garden, ask at a local flower market or nursery so you can choose plants suited to your area.

Terrace with beautiful view

Rocks such as basalt and granite are perfect for the garden

Garden on several levels with stones as accents

Stones surround the lawn

Gabion in the garden

Comfortable lounge area with outdoor fireplace

Stones as decoration

House on a hill – with a rock garden

Perennials and evergreen shrubs in the rock garden

Rockery with bench – practical and original

Stone cascade attracts birds and insects

Pebbles visually separate the garden from the terrace

Japanese-style garden, river stones

Garden decorated with river rocks

Rock garden on a slope