By Kerry Johnston
Nothing soothes like the sound of water falling from a waterfall, trickling into a fountain or bubbling up from the ground. The good news is that a water feature can be added to any garden.
The right fit
First consider the style and size. Will the water feature match your current decor? Will it fit into the available space? Can it be connected to an electricity source close by? You’ll need power for the pump unless you’re opting for solar. Is the area you’ve earmarked flat or uneven? Some water features are better suited to a flat space (a bubble fountain set in a small gravel garden, for instance) while tiered features look beautiful cascading down several levels.
Smart shopper
A water feature needs care and maintenance, so weigh up the pros and cons before you commit. Compare quality, price and make sure you can handle the installation or know someone who can do it for you (especially when it comes to electrical connections). People often make the mistake of buying the incorrect size pump. The taller the feature, the more water it needs to circulate, so the more powerful – and expensive – the pump. The last thing you want to do is invest in a majestic fountain, only to have the water trickle limply down the sides because you have too little power behind it.
Wired for sound
With moving water, you will be able to hear the rushing, cascading or bubbling. How loud do you want that to be? If you prefer peace and quiet, consider a still water feature. The upside it that they’re often simpler to install and maintain.
To fish or not to fish
Several types of fish can live quite happily in a water feature. Just make sure that there is flowing water, as water naturally carries oxygen but it can’t replenish itself without movement. And remember to feed them!
Wear and care
Keep your water feature clean and free of debris. Also, make sure the water level is kept consistent for it to work properly. Most important of all, if you have small children it goes with saying that safety comes first.
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