In some gardens water occurs naturally, and can be used in developing either a simple or an elaborate water garden, maybe with an outdoor fountain. Having a stream running through the garden immediately gives scope for landscaping creativity, and provides an ideal environment for the cultivation of a wide range of wonderful moisture-loving plants. However, most yards are without a natural water source. The introduction of water must be planned and designed, then constructed.
This is not to suggest that the finished garden should be contrived or artificial in appearance. Indeed, some of the most successful gardens have been sculptured from the bare earth, and yet after a few years appear as though they had always been there, formed by nature's hand. The secret is to position the water within the contours of the land so that the structure of the garden and fountain is both feasible and believable.
Of course, many water gardens, including those that are formal or contemporary in design, have no need to emulate nature. These gardens are designed as a feature in themselves; they stand alone, often apart from the landscape. Whatever your choice of style or design, the water garden should be artfully constructed to bring about the pleasure and beauty you desire.
Should You Alter Natural Watercourses
Those blessed with a stream at the bottom of the property can do a great deal to enhance the stream's beauty with edging plants and careful landscaping. However, it is important to avoid compromising the natural flow and health of the stream in any way through interference. When water flows from one private property to another it usually means that ownership is shared, and therefore no individual should change the flow by jamming or diverting the stream. In certain situations local water authorities may give permission for changes, bur these will need to be monitored by a civil engineer.
Care must be taken to preserve the purity of the water. In the past many waterways have been polluted by chemicals, biological imbalances, and silting and these are issues that will need to be considered. Avoid the use of pesticides or chemical nutrients in areas where water runoff will flow into the stream. Sewage and animal manures can also be a problem because they may alter the biological balance of the stream, affecting fish and plants and increasing algae growth. The soft earth along the banks of the stream should be cared for to prevent erosion, which can occur after unexpected heavy rain. In the long term, it is possible to strengthen the banks by planting various species with roots that help to bind the soil. In the short term, the sides of the stream may require reinforcing with crushed rock aggregate, to form a mulch or packing. In some cases larger rocks and rubble may be needed to hold the banks together.
The base of a natural watercourse can be partially lined with river stones or pebbles, crushed quartz, or even limestone. However, if the watercourse is large, importing materials to the site will probably be expensive.
At all times, a natural waterway should be nurtured and protected, as unspoiled waters are such a valuable resource in any community. The ecology of the stream must be preserved, and it is the responsibility of the individualowners to ensure that their section of the stream is well maintained. Avoid the use of plants that will choke or block the stream; only introduce species that will not be invasive or harmful.
Artificial Water Gardens Involve less Rules
Compared with a natural watercourse an artificial pond, lake, or stream is a much more controlled and self-contained environment. This allows the gardener true creativity in landscaping their pond and fountain, and while the immediate environment must be considered it is not of overriding importance. Perhaps the main issue will be the source of the water, as in times of low rainfall, especially in regions that are prone to lengthy dry periods, lack of water may be a problem. Where moving water is used as a feature, as in a waterfall or babbling stream, the one volume of water should be stored and circulated. However, if the water surface area is large, some will be lost by evaporation. In some water gardens underground water may be available, although the quality of this is variable.
Tank water collected from the roof may also be used, but in dry weather it may soon dry up. Ideally, large or extravagant water gardens and fountains should only be built where there is some permanent source of water. If a natural water garden is not an option for you there are hundreds of many styles of outdoor and garden fountains you can use to add water to your gardens and create beautiful, natural water sounds. |
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