Thursday, July 24, 2008

Backyard Water Features

The sound of trickling water can have a calming sensation, and it’s always a bonus feature in any backyard garden. There are many different ways you can incorporate water into your backyard garden, and each option can be customized to make it as original as your garden is.

1. Ponds

Probably one of the most common water features. A pond gives you so many options – whether you want to have just a pond, several ponds connected to each other, a bog, or a waterfall or stream feeding into the pond. You can go for something very small, or a large pond, depending on how much room you have to work with – but remember, you want the size of your pond to complement the size of your yard. If you make it too large, it could just make your yard look claustrophobic, whereas something too small may get lost in a larger yard.

2. Fountains.

Another one of the more common water features is having a fountain in your yard. Whether it’s a small one to just provide the sound of running water, or a large one that becomes the centerpiece to your yard, there are so many designs to choose from that you’ll be sure to find one that perfectly suits the personality of your garden.

3. Pondless Waterfalls.

If you don’t have the room in your garden for a pond, but would still like a visible waterfall, this would be the ideal situation. Pondless waterfalls are made by creating a large hole in the ground; lining it and the waterfall you’ve made with liner and placing a pump in it (keep in mind that the pump should be in some sort of protective casing to keep it from getting damaged). Fill the hole with stones. Then, when the water comes down the waterfall into the stones, it looks like it’s just disappearing into the ground instead of a hole where it’s then pumped back up to the top of the waterfall.

4. Urban Ponds.

Living in an apartment or a home without a backyard where you can create your own water feature? Try an urban pond. Whether in a large wooden barrel (lined with liner) or in a preformed urban pond tub, these are perfect additions to any balcony or deck where you can’t normally install a water feature. By adding some plants or fish, you’ve quickly transformed your small area into a bright, colourful conversation piece!

5. Rain Chains

Rain chains are attached to your eavestrough instead of a downspout. Not only does this have a practical use by keeping water away from your house, but it is also very attractive. You can either make your own simple one, or purchase a decorative one.

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