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P-train,
We have an excellent Japanese garden in the area, Anderson Garden in Rockford, and I picked up some ideas wondering around there in a daze.
1) Trees can be planted on a tilt, going the same direction as the prevailing winds, to evoke a more natural feel. Usually, these would be Pines (Pinus parviflora would be the obvious choice), pruned pretty severly to reflect the ravages of the elements.
2) Rock work extends into "human" spaces like paths to express the dominance of natural forces. At Anderson they literally have boulders in the middle of the walkways!!!
3) Traditional English notions of gardening, like bloom rotation and color maximization, don't apply. Simplicity is key, with foliage texture and contrast providing interest.
It's a whole different mindset from what we usually do, and I envy your opportunity. I almost landed one earlier this Spring, but the client seems to make up her mind like moss grows on rocks...real slow. So the house sits unlandscaped for the third year running...
Good Luck, and take/post plenty of pix!!!
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