In the ancient architectural science of Vastu Shastra, the integration of living greenery is a powerful method for harmonizing the energetic flow within a dwelling. For homes oriented toward the west, specific principles govern the selection and positioning of plants to balance the dominant elemental forces and planetary influences. The west direction is governed by the planet Saturn (Shani), representing stability, discipline, and authority. It is associated with the element of air. Consequently, designing a garden or arranging indoor flora in a west-facing house requires a nuanced approach to ensure that the excessive air element is balanced and the environment fosters well-being and prosperity.
The significance of the west direction extends beyond mere orientation; it influences the psychological and energetic atmosphere of the home. Saturn’s influence can be heavy and restrictive if not properly balanced, but with the correct application of Vastu principles, it can provide a foundation of strength and longevity. Plants serve as conduits for the five elements (Paanch Maha Bhutas). By selecting species that represent the earth and water elements, homeowners can ground the airy nature of the west zone, creating a sanctuary that promotes calmness and flexibility alongside Saturn’s inherent discipline.
Elemental Balancing and Plant Selection
To harmonize a west-facing house, one must aim to balance the excessive air element and strengthen the earth and water elements. Vastu guidelines suggest that plants with dark green foliage or strong root systems are ideal for grounding energies. These plants represent the earth element and provide the stability required to counteract the sometimes turbulent nature of the air element.
When selecting Vastu plants for a west-facing house, specific characteristics of each plant must be considered. The following species are recommended for their ability to attract positive energy, purify the air, and bring specific benefits to the residents:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known for its ability to purify the air and protect against negative energies. It is a robust plant that brings good luck and acts as a protective shield.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): This plant symbolizes peace, harmony, and good fortune. Its ability to absorb toxins makes it a vital addition for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
- Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum): A popular choice for attracting prosperity and abundance. It is particularly effective in balancing the air element and should be placed in specific zones to maximize financial benefits.
- Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana): This plant brings prosperity, happiness, and success. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities and is often used to invite positive vibrations.
- Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum): Considered sacred in Hinduism, Tulsi purifies the air, wards off evil spirits, and promotes good health. Its presence is believed to invite divine blessings.
In addition to these, the Jade Plant is a symbol of prosperity and is perfect for the east direction, though it can be placed near entrances to attract wealth. The Areca Palm is also considered auspicious for good health and positive energy. Conversely, certain plants must be avoided. Bonsai trees symbolize stunted growth and struggle and are not recommended for indoor placement. Thorny plants, including cacti and succulents, are associated with negative energy and conflict; they should generally be kept outdoors, with the exception of the south direction where the fire element aligns with their nature.
Positioning and Placement Strategies
The positioning of Vastu plants is as crucial as the selection. In a west-facing house, the main entrance and living room are often situated in this direction. Therefore, strategic placement is required to manage the flow of energy.
Indoor Placement: Taller plants with grounding qualities, such as Snake Plants or Peace Lilies, should be placed near the entrance or in corners. This placement helps to balance the air element and provide stability to the household. Smaller plants with round or oval leaves, such as the Money Plant or Lucky Bamboo, bring calmness and flexibility. These are best placed on tables or shelves in the living room.
According to Vastu Shastra, the Money Plant should ideally be placed in the southeast corner of the home to attract wealth and financial stability. However, for general indoor placement, the east or southeast directions are often favorable. The Snake Plant is ideally placed in the southeast to purify the air and protect against negative energies. The Bamboo Plant, symbolizing luck and fortune, is ideal for indoor placement in the east or southeast direction.
Outdoor Garden Planning: When designing a garden for a west-facing house, specific directional rules apply. The northeast section of the garden should be kept clear to allow the flow of positive water energy. Small shrubs are best placed in the east or north areas of the garden. Taller trees are ideal for the south side, ensuring their shadow does not fall on the building during the first half of the day.
It is recommended to avoid having a large tree obstructing the entrance. Instead, trees like Peepal, Mango, Neem, or Banana should be planted along the garden wall, away from the main building structure. These trees generate positive energy and provide a pleasant fragrance. Large trees like Peepal, though auspicious, should be planted at a distance to prevent damage to the foundation. Trees that attract insects, worms, honey bees, or snakes should be avoided within the premises.
Specific Directional Guidelines and Color Schemes
The source material provides specific guidance on the interplay between directions, elements, and plant placement:
- North Direction: This zone is favorable for indoor plants. Using Blue or Green planters in the North is recommended. Grey and Black are also permissible accent colors.
- South Direction: This direction aligns with the fire element. It is one of the few places where Thorny plants (like Cactus) are permissible outdoors, as they align with the Fire energy of the South. Tall trees are ideal for the South to block negative energies from the outside.
- South-East Direction: Linked to the Fire element, placing plants in Red-colored planters here enhances the attributes of this direction. This improves cash flow, liquidity, and provides a sense of security.
- East Direction: Signifying Air, this is suitable for planning a garden. It is a favorable direction for the Money Plant and Bamboo.
- West/South-West: Gardens placed in the West or Southwest can lead to multiple issues according to Vastu Shastra. The Southwest represents the Earth element, but generally, large vegetation here is discouraged as it can disturb the stability governed by the Earth element.
Maintenance and Care for Positive Energy
The vitality of the plants directly impacts the energy of the home. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure their well-being and continued positive influence. Proper watering, sunlight exposure, and occasional pruning are necessary to keep plants healthy and thriving.
A critical aspect of Vastu maintenance is the prompt removal of wilted or dying plants. Such plants disrupt the energy flow and can invite negativity. A healthy, thriving plant is a source of positive prana (life force), while a decaying plant becomes a source of stagnation.
Inauspicious Trees to Avoid
To maintain a harmonious environment, certain trees and plants should be strictly avoided near residential properties as per Vastu Shastra:
- Bonsai Trees: Symbolize stunted growth and struggle.
- Cactus and Thorny Plants: Associated with negative energy and conflict. If kept, they should be placed outside in the southwest direction only.
- Tamarind and Myrtle Trees: Believed to attract negative energy.
- Babul (Acacia): Considered inauspicious; can invite tension and disputes.
- Cotton and Silk Trees: Believed to bring financial troubles and health issues.
Conclusion
Incorporating Vastu plants into a west-facing house is a transformative step toward creating a harmonious living environment. By understanding the influence of Saturn and the air element, one can select and position plants that ground the energy and invite stability. The strategic use of species like the Snake Plant, Money Plant, and Tulsi, combined with proper maintenance and directional awareness, allows homeowners to harness the benefits of these natural elements. This approach promotes not only physical health through air purification but also spiritual and financial well-being, aligning the home with the timeless wisdom of Vastu Shastra.