Garden design: water features
Top tips
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Don't be tempted to use topsoil or even conventional compost for aquatic plants. It'll upset the pond's eco-system. Stick to specially formulated preparations.
- Don't be confined to "out-of-the-box" water feature kits.
- Purchase the pump, spout and reservoir separately and experiment with different pebbles and fixtures.
In days gone by, a garden pond was often little more than a dank puddle surrounded by mossy crazy paving. But modern water features make the most of new and traditional materials, allowing you to give full rein to your creative urges. So, soak up our guide and release your inner designer!
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Pond or feature?
Garden ponds pose a significant hazard to young children. If your garden is used by little ones, you're better off building a water feature without an open expanse of water (see Pump It Up on the next page). Choosing the right site is essential. Avoid shade, especially that cast by deciduous trees: their fallen leaves contaminate pond water. You can design your own shape and line it with a flexible butyl liner. Or you can buy a ready-made plastic moulding. The first method is harder work but you'll end up with a more individual design.
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Room to breathe
Don't skimp on space when you design a pond. If you want to create a decent eco-system the pond must be at least 60cm deep in the middle and have a surface area of at least 3.75 square metres. Around the edges, you'll need a shallower shelf where plants can be placed. In addition, allow plenty of room around the pond for access and maintenance.
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Pond life
There are four types of pond plants. Marginal plants occupy the shallow water at the edge of a pond. Deep-water plants grow in the central area. Submerged oxygenators replenish the water with oxygen – essential if your pond contains fish or other animals. Floating plants provide valuable shade during the hot summer months. Of course, plant leaves will die off, so don't forget to remove dying matter on a regular basis.
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Pumps
Unlike a pond, a simple fountain or waterfall-style water feature can be sited in partial or full shade. Most models work on the "pump and sump" principle. In other words, water is pumped from a reservoir, delivered to the spout or waterfall and then returned to the reservoir to be used again. Many designs employ hidden reservoirs. These are ideal if you have young children. Make sure the electricity supply is properly specified for outdoor use and is fitted with an RCD (Residual Current Device). If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.
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