#10. Water features are easy to maintain
Cleaning a fountain or a pond is a piece of cake, but they will need to be cleaned out regularly to minimize the risk of algae building up. Not only that, but cleaning is necessary to prevent blockages, as well. If you are using gravel, stones or rocks, these will also need to be taken out regularly and given a clean or a polish. If you have any fish or pond plants make sure to get them out and place them in a water tank before drying the ponds or the fountains. And don’t forget the best part: this type of activity is very enjoyable, refreshing and does not imply high costs.
#9. You can match the ponds with your garden style
There are so many different designs these days, that it is quite easy to find a style to complement your garden. According to many decorating sources, people prefer three styles: modern, classic and old English. Modern garden spaces that are more minimalist look good with Asian inspired water features, made from natural substances. Plus, you can accessorize the space with grasses and bamboo. For old English gardens look for round or antique water features. Statues that double up as water fountains are also effective in classical garden spaces. In case you only have a patio or balcony, look for a design that can be used in a corner or on a table. There are small fountains and ponds available, made up of concentric vases, which are very efficient on space.
#8. You can make use of natural sunlight
Water features are even more beautiful when they have sunlight shining through their water streams. It gives off the impression that you are bonding with nature, while being caressed by light. For some cultures, this is thought to be the link with the spiritual world, while for others water is one of the sacred four elements and having it close means blessing of the gods. Remember that the Greeks used to worship the god Poseidon who ruled the seas and the oceans, while Romans worshiped Neptune, the Roman god of water. The Ancient people had respect for water and light and more than 3000 years later, people still respect the sacred elements.
#7. You can add more garden designs and textures
Home owners love to décor their homes and this applies to gardens and yards, as well. People love to personalize and customize their gardens as a sign of luxury and prosperity. If you wish to décor your garden, you can use natural looking river rocks in different colors and sizes to add an element of interest. Some are rough while others are smoother and more polished, based on individual preferences. Just make sure the size of the rocks is relative to the size of the fountain and the green plants, water and décor objects ratio is equally spread. The last thing you want is to make your garden look unnatural and over stuffed with “decorations”.
#6. It allows you to create a natural habitat for fish
If you want to bring some more life into the ponds and fountains in the back yard, you can go for fish. While koi fish will need a fairly large amount of space for them to swim around in, gold fish work just as well and are a lot more affordable for smaller ponds. Of course, take into consideration that these small marine animals need clean waters all the time, algae and pond plants and of course, food. They usually feed on specific fish food you can find in any pet store. Another thing to consider is large animals: if you have cats or dogs, they might kill the fish out of play or curiosity. So if you are a pet lover, think twice before buying fish, as they won’t have long lives to live among cats and dogs, unfortunately.
#5. Pond plants are really affordable
Larger water features and fountains can be enhanced with pond plants that serve as natural decorations. Water lettuce is a popular floating plant, as are water lilies, plus the costs are very low. And the best part is that you can do to the seashore and pick up small water plants such as smaller types of sea corals and even sea weed. Among the most popular sea weeds are the brown and green sea weed, also known as algae. But for a drop of color, you can also go for red or yellow sea weed, easily turning your fountain or pond into a natural underwater rainbow. Remember to add salt, sugar and vitamins in the water, from time to time. Plants are living organisms, as well. And they need a lot of sunlight, so make sure they get plenty of it.
#4. Water attracts birds and wildlife to the yard
Birds, frogs and insects are more likely to frequent your garden when there is always a source of water available. To encourage more wildlife make sure you have plenty of indigenous trees and plant life in the area. Of course, you can’t just buy a fountain or water feature, set it down, switch it on and hope for the best. It needs to be well positioned and accessorized to monopolize on its potential. Remember: whatever the choice, small water animals might harm the majority of the sea weed and the maintenance process is a bit tiring. But if you love taking care of your ponds, then this is a great idea to implement.
#3. Water cools the garden down
On a hot summer day, having running water can cool the garden down and make it a pleasant place to enjoy. It also enables you to have aquatic and semi-aquatic plants growing in the garden. And probably the most beautiful feature of having running or still water in the garden is what happens after rain. You get to enjoy one of the most beautiful rainbows in your personal garden, in your home. But remember: in order to have this cooling and blissful effect, the water used in fountains and ponds needs to be crystal clear and clean, so the maintenance process applies here, as well.
#2. Water makes the yard look bigger
The reflective properties of water mean it can make some spaces look bigger. For maximum reflection you should use dark material for the feature or fountain. If you really want to make the most of your new creation, you can use underwater lighting for night time in different colors and shapes. You can also use eco lights that charge from the sun during the day and light the garden during the night. It gives off a splendid calming effect that can be used in nature therapies and can relieve stress and anxiety.
#1. Water introduces serenity into your garden
A fountain creates a tranquil sound, which is ideal if you live in a noisy neighborhood or in the city. Think of it as your place to recreate yourself and to become one with nature. There are many water therapies, mostly taking place in the mountain side or seaside, near bigger amounts of water such as seas, oceans and rivers. But if you want to have a piece of heaven near your body and your mind, surely a pond or fountain in your own garden can make your dream come true. For an extra therapy effect, you can even plant perfumed flowers that bloom at night. After reading these ten reasons, are you ready to introduce water features and fountains into your garden?
