PONDS & WATER FEATURES
Experts at Installing Garden Water Features and Ponds
Installing a water feature involves balancing aesthetics, maintenance, and safety. Key considerations include placement (avoiding overhanging trees and strong winds to prevent debris and evaporation), power and plumbing access, safety (especially if children or pets are present), and what we call 'winterisation' to prevent freezing.
There are a number of considerations that we take into account:
01
POSITIONING AND LOCATION
Sunlight Exposure: Too much direct sun can promote rapid algae and blanket weed growth, while too little sun (north-facing, heavy shade) makes it difficult for aquatic plants to thrive. In general, the best thing to do is aim for partial sun (e.g.- 4-6 hours daily) for your water feature or pond.
Tree Proximity: It's important to avoid placing water features or ponds directly under deciduous trees. Falling leaves can clog pumps and filters, while certain tree roots can damage pond liners.
Wind: Exposed, windy spots cause excessive water evaporation and can blow fountain sprays out of the basin.
02
STYLE, SIZE, AND SOUND
Proportion: The feature should scale appropriately with your garden. A massive pond can overpower a small courtyard, just as a tiny fountain gets lost in a large open lawn.
Sensory Experience: Water features add soothing background noise to mask urban or traffic noise, but the pitch can vary. Make sure you listen to the feature in person before buying, to ensure you like the cadence of the flowing water.
Aesthetics: Match the design to your home’s aesthetic (e.g.- modern glass/steel water walls for contemporary spaces, or natural pebble piles for cottage gardens).
03
MAINTENANCE AND WATER QUALITY
Pumps and Filters: Most moving features require continuous power via submersible or surface pumps. You will need to periodically clean filters, clear debris, and scrub the pump impeller to maintain circulation.
Algae and Cleaning: Be prepared to balance the water using non-toxic additives, or plan to drain and manually scrub the reservoir.
Water Loss: Evaporation requires regular topping off, either manually or via an automated fill valve.
04
PRACTICAL & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Electrical Access: Mains-powered water features require a properly grounded, outdoor-rated electricity supply. Excavation may be necessary to hide cabling safely underground.
Safety & Children: If you have small children or pets, consider elevated fountains or pondless "bubbling rocks" over open, deep ground-level ponds. Mesh guards or raised edges are highly recommended.
Winterisation: Freezing temperatures can cause water to expand and crack reservoirs or ruin electric pumps. You must be prepared to drain the feature or protect the pump before hard frosts hit.
LET'S TALK
Tell Us About Your Space
If you would like to explore adding a water feature or pond to your garden, the first step is to tell us more about your outdoor space:
Are you looking for a stand-alone feature, or a pond with wildlife?
What is the size and style of your garden (e.g.- modern, rustic, large, compact)?
Do you have an outdoor electrical outlet nearby?
We can then help narrow down the best options for your specific layout.