A small-scale water feature can make a big impact in your garden or patio. Best of all, it can address a number of issues that homeowners have, such as drowning out street noise, and providing a focal point. Make sure to consider the following when planning your project.
A pebble fountain is the simplest of the fountain types. Water bubbles up through a bed of stones or small rocks, drains into a hidden reservoir below and is pumped up again. Because there is very little standing water, it is a good choice for families with small children.
A wall-mounted spout or rill can add modern flair, while a large glazed pot or half-barrel adds a charming container pond. A bowl about 60cm across can also work. If it’s placed in a good spot, like where it’s visible from a window, you’ll be able to see it year-round and it’ll add some greenery to your garden in the winter.
Pick a spot that gets some sunlight but not too much. Think four to six hours. Too much strong sunlight will cause algae to bloom. Deep shade will slow the growth of the plants and cause the leaves to decay and drop into the water. An aquatic feature placed directly beneath trees will accumulate bird poop and leaves, making it an extra hassle to clean.
Consider access to power as well. Outdoor electrical work should comply with the regulations, and any pump or light should be connected via an RCD-protected supply. If you are not confident, have a qualified electrician install a weatherproof outdoor socket rather than using an extension lead across the lawn.
Children and water do not mix without planning. For anyone with small children or frequent visitors, the safest design feature would be a rock or pebble pool without open water, such as a bubbling rock or pool with a grille just below the surface. If you have any doubts about your children’s maturity, wait to add a pond.
Look for trip hazards beyond the water’s edge, too. Slippery surfaces, paving edges and loose cables can all cause trips. Tuck pumps and cables away and make paving edges stable. In cold spells, switch off pumps as they can freeze up and burn out.
A sturdy and level base prevents wobbles and leaks. If using a container as a pond, check the container is watertight and cover any drainage holes with a waterproof sealant. In-ground features are usually lined with a flexible liner and a sand or underlay base, with a marginal ledge to help support edge plants.
Pick the right pump for the job. An oversized pump can lead to a wasteful splashing of water, and a pump that is too small leads to a weak trickle. Many pumps have a flow control which allows for better sound adjustment.
Water warms quickly and algae begins growing fast in small bodies of water. Use of a few native oxygenating plants helps to maintain water quality as well. Removing debris will help keep water clear. Skimming the surface of the water with a net each week is all that is needed to remove algae during the growing season.
Add rainwater to your plants when you can. It’s gentler on them than tap water. Also, rinse the pump filter about once a month, and do a deeper clean of the whole system in early spring to get any critters that may have moved in.
Wildlife can locate your feature faster than you expect. Provide a sloping edge or a ramp of stones, so hedgehogs and birds can drink, and climb out again. Chemical treatments can harm visitors and disrupt the balance of your water feature. Be patient until it naturally clarifies and balances.
Smaller water features can also be very rewarding. Pick a design that fits your space and safety is very important. The most important thing to remember is to top off the water feature, clean the water feature and be consistent with your routine. A small water feature can change the look and feel of your garden.