Calm your garden with a water feature
September 17th 2008 04:04
Water features may seem irresponsible in drought stricken Australian, but filing a garden water feature is still permissible in some areas providing it doesn’t overflow and waste water. For example, Sydney water restrictions allow the filling up of a container, which can be a water feature, from a hose that is left running. Think carefully about what kind of water feature you will have, and ensure that it can recycle its water, and rarely need to be replaced. An idea is to use the water from the water feature to water the garden, when permitted by water restrictions in your area. Check the restrictions before you decide to install a water feature.
Water features come in a range of types, from a pond, to a water garden, to a wall fountain, or water flowing over an object, such as a pot of vase. A pre formed pond is an easy way to go, and can come in a range of sizes big enough to form habitat for fish and room for plants. They are easy to install yourself, just dig a hole big enough for the pond.
Plastic or PVC pond liners are another water feature option, and give you more creativity with style, shape and size than the pre formed pond. They can also be laid yourself, providing they are handled with care to avoid punctures. In a nutshell, this method is as straightforward as lining a hole in the ground with plastic sheeting, weighing the edges down with rocks, and filling with water. Decorate with plants growing in and around the pond.
Another option is to build a pond using concrete, and rendering it for an earthier, garden look. However, it must be cured for several weeks before being safe for plants and fish, and can also crack and leak. One creative advantage of using cement is that you govern the design of the pond.
Water features other than ponds are usually characterised by water flowing over or into an object, powered by a pump. Wall fountains are great for gardens with little or no space, and even for balconies and courtyards. This kind of water feature can be bought ready made, or made yourself. The basics consist of a receptacle to hold water, and a pump. Pots, urns, vases and other artistic containers are popular. Howver, everyday household items can be recycled into an effective water feature. Even the old kitchen sink.
Solar powered products are a great option for powering your water feature. A range of solar powered fountain pumps, filters and fountain lights are available in garden stores and online, and are a more environmentally sustainable option. It also resolves the problem of installing an electric pump, and connecting it to an outdoor power point.
Like your home, a water feature is all about location. Place your water feature in an area that will get sunlight, if it is to grow water plans. Also, try to establish the feature away from trees that are likely to drop branches and leaves into the water.
Make sure the water is cycled through the water feature, as stagnant water can breed mozzies, and attract other insects. This is the last thing you need on summers evening!
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