August is the time of year when ocean beaches and swimming pools call us away to places where waves lap the sand, and laughter and splashing abound. But what if you can’t get away? What if you crave the trickle of water and splashing droplets?
Well, kind Reader, let me offer a few suggestions that could help you provide some liquid loveliness at home—whether that’s an intimate patio or a spacious garden.
I’ll begin with 4 tips that may help you decide whether a water feature project is something you’re interested in pursuing.
Tip #1: You’ll need to think about the location of your water feature.
You certainly want to be able to enjoy the sound and sight of the trickling or splashing water from your favorite seating area. Will you need to make major changes in your garden’s layout? How about sun and shade? Do you need to consider neighbors— what they see, how they’ll react? Where will you get electricity and water? If you’re considering a pond or waterfall keep in mind that wild creatures will be eager to stop by for a sip. (So true in the heat of summer.) Will you be disturbed if a few songbirds swing through, or a fox or raccoon stops for a sip?
Tip #2: What sort of water feature will you actually enjoy— from large to small:
- a pond: You’ll need a depth of 3 feet if you want to introduce a few koi or goldfish; 2 feet deep will do if you’re planning on lily pads and thirsty songbirds.
- a waterfall: There are clever designs for pond waterfalls, and more compact waterfalls with tiny catchments, such as pottery bowls, even recirculating pumps for interesting optical illusions.
- a waterwall: Speaking of optical illusions, a privacy screen can become a shimmering wall of softly falling water. You’ll probably need a professional to install this lovely option.
- a water container: These are great for small patios and balconies. You can choose a container that reflects a particular style or theme—a country tin bucket or a graceful oriental bowl. No need to bother with a pump, just plan to refill the container regularly. (Keep in mind you may find your songbirds stopping off for a bath or a drink.)
Tip #3: Once you’ve settled on the size, you’ll need to decide on one of three ways to approach the installation. Your budget and time constraints can be important factors.
- small do-it-yourself project (probably the water container)
- large do-it-yourself project (the waterfall might be done by watching some YouTube videos. There are pond kits, but if you plan to do that yourself, prepare for some backbreaking work.)
- professional design and installation project. Anything requiring plumbing and electrical should really be done by professionals. While the initial cost may seem high, the durability and safety of your water feature will make the expense worthwhile. Here are a few suggestions to help you prepare for your conference with the landscape or hardscape professional: Be clear on your budget.Try to collect some images of the design(s) you’re considering. Inquire about any permits and regulations for your area. Ask him/her to discuss the quality and longevity of the materials they’ll use to complete your water feature.
Tip #4: I would be remiss if I didn’t warn you about maintaining your water feature. Of course, the degree of maintenance depends on the complexity of your water feature.
- You’ll have to refill your water feature; the water will evaporate or be lapped up by thirsty visitors.
- Be sure the water you add to the feature is clean, preferably without excessive mineral content.
- Plan to inspect and probably clean the pump regularly. If you notice the water flow diminishing, that’s a good indicator that debris is blocking the pump intake.
- You’ll have to winterize the pump, which may mean simply removing it from the pond. However, if you have a sophisticated waterwall or waterfall, you may want your professional installer to return to winterize and then recommission the pump in the spring.
Okay, now that I’ve given you the “grown-up” information, let’s have some fun considering 4 clever and unique water features you could install:
Tip #5: Table-top Zen Garden
Full-size Zen contemplation gardens use boulders, gravel, bamboo, and water to create a place for contemplation. With some careful planning, you could cover the top of your patio table with a miniature Zen garden. Rocks replace boulders, aquarium gravel replacing pea rock, and a shallow container to hold water.
Tip #6: Rain-Chain
Perhaps you’ve seen one hanging from the corner eave of a quiet house. The design is to direct the rainwater to slip down the chain, through small cups, and on down to the earth, creating a pleasing sight and sound.
Tip #7: Bubbling Rock
You can try creating one of these yourself, but I’d recommend you buy one. A boulder or large rock is hollowed out to hold the pump, and a hole is drilled from the pump to the surface of the boulder. The boulder sits in a shallow container of water, and the pump recirculates the water up through the hole so it bubbles out the top of the boulder and cascades down the sides.
Tip #8: Tiered Planter
This one could be a do-it-yourself project using terra cotta flowerpots of increasing size. Thread the pots and a small hose from largest to smallest onto a sturdy rod through the holes. A tiny pump goes in the top and smallest flowerpot. Fill the base pot with water and let the pump suck the water up to the top and over the edges, down to the base. (My directions may be confusing, but you can find a how-to video on YouTube.)
Even if you decide to postpone a water-feature project, it’s fun to consider what you might add next season. Your garden or patio is a canvas, awaiting your unique touches.
