DIY Water Gardens

It's no secret that incorporating water features into the garden can add to its overall charm. Whether it's implemented for viewing pleasure only or for the purpose of outdoor activities, there's just something soothing about a water garden. But what should you do if your outdoor space is too small to accommodate such an undertaking? What if you don't even have a garden? Does this mean homeowners should have to sacrifice their hopes of enjoying such tranquil beauty? Of course not. There are plenty of water gardens and other features that will fit into any space. Best of all, your budget doesn't have to be sacrificed either.

Incorporate a miniature pond. Were you aware that a small water garden can easily be added to your available space by simply using containers? Nearly any type of container can be transformed into a water garden feature. Wooden half barrels, old sinks and bathtubs, galvanized washtubs, feeding troughs, and similar items can easily be turned into a 'backyard pond,' even if your yard comes in the form of a balcony, terrace, or patio. A mini water garden can be placed above or below the ground, making them extremely versatile. For any containers that are not watertight, you may want to use PVC liner to prevent leakage from occurring. Situate the pond in a sunny location whether it's above the ground or below.

Generally, anywhere from 4-6 hours of sunlight is sufficient. When you are placing the pond above ground, simply ensure that the site is level. Add some water-loving plants, such as water lilies, and a fountain of some sort for additional interest. Garden centers offer a wide selection of fountain kits at relatively low prices, and they are easy to install. With a fountain, you can create soothing melodies that drip, splash, spray, or even trickle. You will need to replenish your pond with water once levels diminish due to evaporation. Another option for an above-ground water garden includes placing a plastic reservoir or other suitable container into an old tire or interesting planter. Add a submersible pump to create a fountain and fill with water. Surround your miniature water garden with rocks and plants.

Placing the miniature pond below the surface of the ground is ideal for minimizing the threat of winter freezing. Dig out the soil in a sunny location just enough to accommodate your container. Level off the area and add a layer of sand along the bottom of the hole. Place the container inside and fill in around it with soil to secure your pond in place. Depending on the size of your container, add about 3-5 water plants. These might include water lilies, cattails, water hyacinths, umbrella grass, or sweet flag.

Conceal the edges with flat stones and accent with additional plants such as irises, elephant ears, hostas, and forget-me-nots. Incorporating a fountain will add further interest. A pond waterfall can also make a lovely accent. Moving water adds character. Garden centers provide easy, do-it-yourself kits. A waterfall can flow over rocks or slither down retaining walls. You can choose to create a formal look or opt for something less formal. Whatever style you choose to design should always complement the surrounding landscape.

Miniature ponds can include pumps or filters to keep water fresh and clean. However, you can also choose to create a more natural, self-supporting pond instead. This type of water garden is normally teeming with wildlife and oxygenating plants that keep your pond water clean. Adding bricks or other objects inside the container will provide the pond with ledges to support plants. Good oxygenating plants include hornwort, water hyacinth, and duckweed.

Water lilies and other water plants can be placed in pots and set on ledges of the pond. Wildlife for your pond can include fish, tadpoles, and snails. These are available through water garden supply stores which can also provide additional information on how many you should get. These creatures will help clean up the pond by eating algae, bugs, and other pond debris. Regular treatment with a dechlorinator will also help to keep the pond fresh and healthy.

If a miniature water garden is not for you, there are many other options to choose from. Once again, fountains make wonderful additions to any type of setting, with or without a garden. Fountain kits can transform any large container such as urns, planters, or strawberry jars, into pleasurable water features that can accent both indoor and outdoor areas. The fountain pump should be placed in the bottom of the container. Most containers have a drainage hole in the bottom; however, if yours does not, you can easily add one with a drill.

This will enable the cord from your submersible pump to slide through for easy connection to an electrical outlet. The hole can also be sealed with any type of adhesive suitable for water fixtures. Once your fountain has been placed, you can add pebbles and aquatic plants to enhance its appearance. You could also try sticking a hollowed-out piece of bamboo inside a large pot or barrel. Secure it in place and put a submersible pump in the bottom. Use vinyl tubing to run through the length of bamboo. Add water and place near an outlet. Plug it in, sit back, and enjoy your fountain.