How To Create a Simple Beautiful Garden Water Feature

7 Feb

***Gisborne South Garden*** Photographed by ***Marnie Hawson***

The element of water can transform any outdoor space into a serene oasis. If you've ever dreamed of adding a touch of nature to your garden or courtyard, creating a simple yet stunning water feature is the perfect way to achieve that dream. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to craft a beautiful water feature that will enhance the ambiance of your space.

**1. Find a Beautiful Bowl**

The first step in creating your water feature is to find a bowl that speaks to your style and complements the surroundings. Whether it's a ceramic or plastic bowl or a minimalist stone basin, choose something that resonates with you. The bowl will serve as the centerpiece of your water feature, so take your time to find one that you absolutely love.

**2. Get a Standard Pond Pump**

Invest in a standard pond pump to circulate the water in your feature. Pond pumps are readily available at garden centers and come in various sizes. Choose one that suits the dimensions of your selected bowl. The pump will create a gentle flow of water, adding a soothing sound to your outdoor space.

**3. Add a Rectangle Filter**

Enhance the functionality of your pond pump by attaching a rectangle filter to it. This filter will help keep the water clean by trapping debris and preventing clogs. A clean and clear water feature not only looks more appealing but also requires less maintenance. The rectangle filter ensures that your water feature remains a hassle-free.

**4. Fill up the Hole at the Bottom of the Bowl**

To complete your water feature, insert the pond pump with the electrical cable going through the bottom drainage hole *(if your bowl doesn’t have a hole or if the hole isn’t bigger enough use a drill to make one)* fill up the hole at the bottom of the bowl with an aquatic sealant. Now add water, plants and fish!

***Having water reticulate*** is a smart way of saving water. Another option is a hidden reservoir which reduces evaporation and maintenance.

This type of reticulated water feature has the added bonus of being child friendly.
You can purchase reservoirs that have a lid so they can be buried in the ground from your local garden supplies. You can also ***use a storm water pit*** which is effectively the same thing and often cheaper (buy from plumbing Supplies shop) Cover the grate with river pebbles.

You can really turn anything into a water feature once you know how.

The beauty of adding the element of water to your garden is that it really does transform the mood of a space. The sound of water is not only calming but it can soften the noise of neighbours and traffic. Water also brings so much biodiversity into your garden. You will notice frogs and butterflies visiting not to mention small birds.

Eliminate mosquitoes by ensuring that water is constantly moving this prevents them from breeding as they like stagnant water. I also like to add fish and aquatic plants as they really help reduce algae build up and keep everything in balance.