This ancient practice is based on the correct placement for optimum energy flow of balance and harmony.

The idea of chi-balance means that there is equal shade and sun, that each area’s purpose and appearance blends in the right order (from water to wood, wood to fire) to create a general sense of protection and abundance in the garden.

Garden paths should always meander gently to the front/back door as straight lines create negative energy (or chi). Soften these lines with plants next to the path or pots placed on the path’s edge for example. Trees need to be distanced correctly so that the garden still gets enough sunlight and all plants need to be absolutely healthy and thriving.

Using a compass, one needs to first divide the garden space into 8 trigrams (sectors) because each direction embodies specific characteristics. These are:

North
Number: 1
Represents: profession
Element: water
Shapes: waves and bends
Colours: blacks and blues
Solutions: water features, ponds, metal objects like chimes.

North-East
Number: 8
Represents: Knowledge and wisdom
Element: Earth
Shapes: squares and rectangles of flat
Colours: Beige, cream, turquoise
Solutions: rocks and stones, terra cotta pots and ceramics.

East
Number: 3
Represents: Family
Element: Wood
Shapes: long rectangular columns
Colours: Beige, cream and green
Solutions: decks and other wooden items, trees and fountains.

South-East
Number: 4
Represents: Abundance and wealth
Element: Wood
Shapes: long rectangular columns
Colours: purple and green
Solutions: kitchen garden, flowers and decks, ponds and fruit trees.

South
Number: 9
Represents: Fame
Element: Fire
Shapes: Triangular and pointy shapes
Colours: oranges and reds
Solutions: fire pits and barbeque areas, lights and wooden benches.

South-West
Number: 2
Represents: Personal Relationships
Element: Earth
Shapes: squares of low and flat surfaces
Colours: beige, pink and yellow
Solutions: items in pairs of 2 such as clay pots of pink flowers.

West
Number: 7
Represents: Children
Element: Metal
Shapes: arches, bends and circles
Colours: metallic and whites
Solutions: wrought iron items and metal chimes, table for crafts and kids leisure.

North-West
Number: 6
Represents: Helpful people
Element: Metal
Shapes: arches, bends and circles
Colours: metallic, grey and white
Solutions: metal chimes and archways, wrought iron and metal items.