Tips for Adding a Water Feature to your Landscape

Water features can add the perfect touch of tranquility to your outdoor space. Ponds, reflecting pools, streams and fountains can all make a big difference in your landscape.

Your water garden can consist of a spill fountain, birth bath, small pond, wall fountain or fish pond – the choice is yours! With a little bit of planning and a lot of imagination, you can turn your stagnant landscape into a beautiful, interesting outdoor space.

The following tips will help you get your water feature up and running in no time:

• Choose your location. If you want a moving water feature, then you’ll need to place the water garden near an electrical outlet. If your plans include installing a pond, you’ll need to check with your local utility companies to ensure that you don’t hit any utility lines when digging. You will also need to check with your local municipality regarding zoning laws.

Some zoning codes specify how close a pond can be located to your property line. Others require that you obtain a building permit if your water feature is deeper than 18 inches or if it has an electrical wiring or plumbing connection.

Keep your water feature away from trees, which often drop leaves and debris into the water. Also consider keeping your water garden out of direct sunlight (unless you plan on adding water plants), as this could speed the evaporation process.

If you must place your water feature in direct sunlight for more than a few hours a day, consider purchasing a float valve that is designed to maintain the proper water level.

• Decide on your water garden’s scale, proportion and style. This may include deciding whether you want your water feature to act as an accent or a focal point in your garden. Keep in mind that your water feature will blend better into its surroundings if it matches the style and design of your home and grounds.
• Keep your budget in mind as you design your water feature. This may sound like a no-brainer, but a small water garden can turn into a full-fledged pond with fountain if you don’t stick to your original plan. Make a list of the parts and equipment that you’ll need before hitting the store and stick to it while shopping.
• Decide whether you want your water feature to be a still water or a moving water garden. Both options have their benefits:

A moving water garden is both visually and audibly pleasing. Bubbling water aerates the water and prevents algae from forming on top of the water. It also acts as a healthy environment for fish.

A still water garden can become a beautiful reflecting pool in your garden, as well, and is ideal if you want to add water plants.

• Don’t forget safety! Always keep safety in mind if you have small children in your home or in the neighboring homes, as small children can drown in just a few inches of water. If safety is a concern, you may choose to install a wall or pedestal fountain instead.