Water features draw wildlife to the garden and create a soothing soundscape. They can be symmetrical or organic in style, but always a focal point.
Think beyond cherub-style statues for your fountain – modern sculpture is an eye-catching option. Rills, runlets and rivulets are ideal for less expansive gardens as they mimic the natural flow of running water.
Ponds
Ponds can add a unique focal point to any garden and are great for those who love spending time outside. A pond can also serve as an ecosystem for wildlife, providing food, shelter and water to local species. A well-designed pond will have a natural flow that mimics the ecosystem of a stream, increasing water circulation and reducing algae growth. If you are considering a pond, it is important to plan ahead and consider the amount of maintenance it will require.
To create a natural look, choose a free-form design with rounded edges and avoid harsh corners. For a more decorative touch, you can incorporate a statue fountain into your design to add character. Incorporate a wide variety of plants to provide visual interest and help keep the water clean, including aquatic plants like water lilies and hornworts.
The addition of a waterfall is another way to add interest to your pond. This type of water feature is more complex to install, however the calming sound and beauty it provides will be worth the effort. A waterfall can also be used as a focal point in a garden or patio area and is especially attractive when combined with a rock garden.
To attract birds and other wildlife to your water features, you can also incorporate a shallow basin for bird baths or a bubbler, dripping fountain or misting device that will encourage hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to the movement of water and can be attracted to almost any type of water feature.
Adding a statue to your pond can be a wonderful way to add charm and character to the space. Statues with a water feature are especially effective when the statue has a face that reflects the motion of the water. This will add an element of whimsy and fun that can be very appealing to children and elderly individuals. However, it is important to note that a water feature can present the risk of drowning for those who are not careful. This is why it is very important to supervise children around water features, especially small ones.
Fountains
Fountains are easy-to-use focal points that are perfect for any garden. They come in a wide variety of styles, from formal to rustic. Some are elaborate, such as this stone monolith, while others are sculptural in nature or made with materials like cast concrete and fiberglass that mimic the look of natural stones. The way water moves and catches light has a lot to do with the way the feature looks, too. The sound of rippling water is relaxing and soothing, while the noise from a waterfall or a stream is more dramatic and invigorating.
The size and shape of the fountain is also a factor to consider. Larger features are often more dramatic and take up more space, while smaller fountains can be more subtle and blend into the landscape. For example, this narrow pool of water is a beautiful addition to a small, modern backyard. The monochromatic color scheme and symmetrical layout make it a striking yet relaxing element in the yard.
Another way to create a fountain is to repurpose an old item. For instance, an old metal bucket, washbasin or wheelbarrow can be transformed into a stunning fountain with some creativity. You can also find one-of-a-kind fountains from garden centers or online retailers that offer unique, recycled designs. Using recycled materials helps reduce the amount of waste in landfills, and it also gives your garden an eco-friendly flair.
Whether you choose a pond, waterfall or fountain, consider where it will be located in your garden and what kind of sound it will make. Keep in mind that recirculating fountains need electricity, so you’ll want to plan accordingly for the placement of the pump and power source. It’s also important to consider the amount of sunlight the area gets, because fountains can evaporate quickly if left in full sun.
Lastly, when planning a garden, consider how your guests will use the fountain. A fountain that is placed near a seating area creates a place to gather with family and friends, while a waterfall will draw people from all over the garden. Adding statuary, flowers and plants around the water feature will help enhance its beauty and add additional texture.
Waterfalls
A waterfall brings movement to your garden design and can be built into a water pond or stand alone. For a rustic waterfall build it out of rough rocks to match the surrounding natural landscape or go for a more modern look with a smooth waterfall made from tiles. Landscape lighting can be added to illuminate the waterfall at night. If you have a natural slope in your garden you can even turn it into a waterfall by incorporating the hillside into the landscape.
Backyard waterfalls are a complex project and require the assistance of a professional landscape contractor to ensure proper construction. Site preparation includes removing existing vegetation and leveling the ground as well as ensuring that the waterfall location does not interfere with underground utilities or the roots of nearby trees. Waterfalls can be designed using a variety of materials including rock, concrete blocks, bricks and glass tiles. However, it is important to choose the material that best matches your overall landscape design.
Stream waterfalls add sophistication to any garden while offering a calming ambiance. The gentle flow of water creates an ecosystem that can attract wildlife to the garden and help keep local plants in good condition. This type of waterfall can be built from a variety of materials including natural stone, river rocks and concrete blocks.
While waterfalls are a great addition to any backyard garden, they are especially a wonderful feature in large gardens. This is due to the fact that larger gardens offer more space for a large waterfall to become a focal point. However, smaller gardens can also benefit from a small backyard waterfall by adding a calming presence to the space.
The sound of flowing water is soothing to humans and can be an effective stress reliever. There is also scientific evidence that the sound of moving water releases negative ions that are known to reduce levels of pollution in the air as well as improve focus and concentration. The sound of the rushing water is also known to block out other noises, making it a great option for those with children who may be disturbed by other outdoor sounds.
Streams
A garden stream can add a tranquil focal point to your outdoor space. It’s more versatile than a waterfall or pond since it can flow in different directions, creating a meandering effect and allowing you to incorporate more natural elements such as rocks, boulders and even trees into your design.
The first step to building a garden stream is selecting the best spot. Make sure it won’t interfere with any other landscaping elements and isn’t in danger of flooding nearby structures or plants. Depending on the type of stream you want, it may also be a good idea to consider the surrounding landscape and choose a location that will compliment your property rather than detract from it.
Once you’ve chosen where to put your stream, it’s time to start digging. You’ll need to dig a basin to contain the water that will cycle through it, and you’ll need to install a liner such as ProfiClear to ensure that the water doesn’t leak out or damage the surrounding soil. Once you’ve finished the basin, you can start adding the other features that will give your garden stream character.
Plants are a big part of the appeal for most people who choose to build streams because they can help them blend in with their surroundings and create the calming atmosphere that they’re known for. Consider planting reeds, grasses and ferns to add texture and color to the area. You could even add small bridges to accentuate the stream’s beauty and help you navigate across it more easily.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, depending on the kind of stream you have, it might need a little bit more maintenance than other types of water features. It might need to be regularly cleaned to remove harmful algae and to control mosquitos. If you are concerned about this, you can always speak to a garden design professional for advice on how to go about managing these issues.
As with any water feature, a stream comes with its own set of risks. It’s important to remember that if you have children or pets around, they might be tempted to play in it and could end up drowning. While nobody wants to think of this, it’s something that should be taken into account when deciding on the right water feature for your yard.
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