Adding Water Features to Your Garden: Ponds, Fountains, and More

Water features transform gardens into tranquil retreats. Whether a bog garden, natural pool, or fountain, thoughtful design ensures clarity, wildlife habitat, and visual appeal.

Bog Gardens & Natural Pools

• Think big—small bog areas dry quickly.
• For wildlife pools, include shallow, sloping sides for easy access.
• Clear water naturally: submerge barley straw (in a bag or old tights) and add floating plants (water lilies, duckweed) plus oxygenators to shade water and reduce algae.
• Don't overstock fish—crowding causes stress and disease.
• Rinse new plants under tap water to remove hitchhiking duckweed.
• Line planting baskets with sackcloth to retain soil.
• Remove blanket weed by twisting a twiggy stick in the water.
• DIY fish nets from net curtain, wire hoop, and bamboo cane.

Fountains: Elegance in Motion

• Fountains add soothing sound and movement to formal pools.
• Avoid in lily ponds—lilies dislike water disturbance.
• Self-contained submersible pumps are easiest to install.
• Position fountainhead slightly above water for full spray effect.
• Typical throw: 6 ft high, 4 ft radius—adjust with flow regulator.
• Various spray heads available for different patterns.
• Almost any water-holding container can become a fountain.

From expansive ponds to compact container fountains, moving water brings serenity and life to your garden.