Yin & Yang in Landscaping

Terminology

• A number of terms and phrases apply to the yin and yang theory in landscaping. The philosophy of "unity of man with nature," the ideal of the "peach blossom spring"and the "world-in-a-pot" model all pertain to the application of yin and yang in landscaping. The theory of Feng Shui is also used when developing a yin and yang type of landscaping. All these keywords come into play when a landscape architect designs a yin and yang landscape.

Unity of Man with Nature

• The yin and yang principle of landscaping centers on the harmony between man and nature. This principle comes from the ancient Chinese philosophies of the unity of man with nature. All this boils down to creating a landscape that integrates human activities within natural patterns to create harmony between the two. Yin and yang landscaping is more of a spatial concept and offers an escape from the hectic lifestyle.

Feng Shui

• Feng Shui translates into Feng ,or wind, and Shui, or water, bringing in the yin and yang dualism concept. Yin and yang find a harmonious balance that creates a soothing and calming atmosphere. By organizing plants in a pleasing Feng Shui design you automatically incorporate the balancing principles of yin and yang. Feng Shui and yin and yang when incorporated into landscaping designs make use of the placement of buildings in addition to plants. Yin and yang principles are also used when developing cultivars of landscaping plants.

Yin and Yang Cultivars

• Cultivating plants to bring out the positive characteristics in appearance so that the clones greatly resemble the parent plant is associated with yang. On the other hand, using the yin principles has the potential to create a cultivar that is resistant to disease and pests. The yin factor in this is relieving the stress on the plant and implementing the balance. However, this also has the potential to backfire when a more virulent pest or a new disease affects the plant. By using the yin and yang theories in cultivating offers landscape architects a broader variety of plants from which to choose.