I'm really excited about creating a tray zen garden and considering using natural sand from local spots. Has anyone tried using sand from places like beaches, rivers, or deserts for their zen gardens? Do these sands keep the rake patterns well? I'm looking for tips on whether natural sand will work, and if there are affordable places to buy sand instead, that would be helpful too!
4 Answers
You might want to check your local laws before collecting sand from nature, as it can be illegal in some areas. Many places have restrictions to protect the environment because sand is a finite resource and taking it can hurt natural habitats and increase coastal erosion. If you're looking to buy sand, consider heading to a landscaping store for manufactured options instead of beach sand.
I found a bag of zen garden sand on Amazon for about $10. Honestly, it might save you a lot of effort compared to gathering and cleaning natural sand. Plus, it ensures you're getting something nice and clean for your garden. Just an easy option if you want to skip the collection process!
If you're just looking for something inexpensive, playground sand is super cheap and available at home improvement stores. It's a great option for zen gardens without the hassle of collecting your own.
Beach sand can work just fine! Just rinse it out in a bucket to clean it. Use enough water for floaty debris like leaves to come off. Then, let it dry in the sun on a tray. Once it's dry, screen it through a piece of window screen to get rid of rocks and shells. It’s a bit of a process, but it can be done!