Last Sunday afternoon, my husband, myself and our puppy, Annie, headed off to the nearby Conservation District area. Spending time in nature is something that we all thoroughly enjoy and do as often as possible. What was different during this outing is that went to a park that had access to a stream. The addition of water meant our level of joy skyrocketed. Our English Springer Spaniel literally galloped on the banks of the stream as she seemed to smile with delight. We sat, talked, and watched in amazement as she swam, ran and bathed in the fresh water. Her joy at the addition of water to our outdoor activity was obvious to everyone who hiked by us.
Adding an element of water to our backyard landscaping can also be a source of joy. Water features add interest, beauty and serenity. They take many shapes including table top bubblers or standalone fountains, in ground ponds or old school additions such as rain barrels. This article will focus on the steps that you may want to explore as you consider adding a water feature to your yard.
First and foremost, before adding a water feature, make sure to research any applicable homeowner association guidelines and/or community regulations. Similar to other landscaping features such as trees, shrubs and flowers, water features need maintenance. The level of maintenance varies widely across different types of features.
One of the first steps in adding a water feature to your yard is determining an appropriate location. You may want the feature to be visible from inside your home as well as when you are outside on your patio or deck. Be sure to consider a site that allows you easy access to the site to do the necessary maintenance.
Water features are available in a wide variety of types, styles, sizes and colors. Figuring out the combination that best works within your parameters and reflects your personal tastes may take time and research.
Table top water bubblers or fountains are readily available. They are usually made of a weatherproof material and easily cleaned with a damp cloth. The pumps are often powered by electricity. Solar powered table top bubblers and fountains are also available though.
Standalone fountains can be as simple or as ornate as you prefer. Spherical, tiered or nature inspired fountains are designed by artists to add visual beauty and as well as the soothing sound of running water. Fountains are constructed to fit in corners, against walls or simply to be free standing. The materials used ranges from ceramic, cast stone or resin. Usually, no plumbing is needed, as a pump assists in the recirculating of the water. You will need access to a three-prong 110V electrical outlet. Fountains should be placed on a firm, level surface. If placing within a planting bed or the lawn, consider installing a stepping stone beneath the fountain. The fountain will need to be protected from the elements each winter. Ideally it should be drained and stored inside the garage.
Bird baths function as not only as a source of beauty for humans but also as a place for birds to drink, bath and cool themselves. Two-piece bird baths are often easier to clean in the summer and store in the winter. A circulating water bird bath can be a vital part of creating a natural bird habitat.
The popularity of rain barrels is gaining momentum. Rain barrels are multi-functional. In addition to conserving water, they also save homeowners money on their water bills. Storm water runoff can cause problems downstream such as clogged drains and polluted water, rain barrels help to reduce those problems. Rain barrels also offer a way to collect clean water for your plants.
In-ground ponds are also ways to incorporate a water feature into the landscaping. These ponds are meant to mimic the feel of ponds in nature and can be home to aquatic fish and plants. Through excavation and the combination of a heavy-duty pond liner, rocks and a pump an in-ground pond can be a tremendous source of enjoyment. In ground ponds do require consistent maintenance that includes cleaning the water, checking the liner for cuts or holes, protecting the fish from predators and making sure the pump is in good working order.
Research has shown that the sound of water guides neuronal waves in our brain and allows our bodies to relax. I hope that you are able to experience the calming effect of the sound of water not only in the wider natural world but perhaps through a water feature in your yard.
