The Sunday Mail
THIS week, we explore water features and their significance to human societies. Have you noticed the affluence of a garden once water features are introduced into it? The mundane becomes elegant and prestigious.
It does not matter how small it is. However, the bigger it is the greater the impression it makes.
On a hot sunny day, water in the garden has a mystical, soothing and calming effect.
For centuries, men have been captivated by water features near their dwellings. In ancient civilisations of Egypt, England, Rome, China and Japan, water was a sign of prestige and paradise, with a number of beliefs being associated with it. Water was believed to be linked to wisdom by the Mesopotamians, it was believed to have the ability to extend life in ancient China; the Hindus say “water of life” and living water represents the spirit of God in the Bible.
Regardless of your beliefs, incorporating a water feature in your garden is a great way to bring variety and life to your design. Birds will flock into the garden whilst the gold fish and water lilies will definitely liven things. The question becomes what kind of water feature to put in your garden. That all depends with your budget and the time you are prepared to spend looking after your water feature. It can be a fountain, waterfall, pond, small river or just a small water feature.
l water gardens will generally fit into a natural style garden. Formal gardens usually consist of regular shapes and patterns such as those found at public buildings. The next decision to be made is whether or not your water structure consists of plants or fish. Most people usually prefer both the natural sound of flowing water and the presence of aquatic plants and fish.
It is always a good idea to put your plan on paper before commencing work on your water feature. That will give you a good overview of the whole garden. Any water body creates safety concerns, so make necessary precautions if you have children and domestic animals. You can perhaps construct the pond where access to it is behind a locked door. This cannot be overly stressed for many drowning accidents have occurred in the garden. Be warned. If you have kids you can always opt for small water features like fountains or the Japanese style designs where a very small amount of water is used.
We now look at creating an informal pond in your garden. Choose the material you will use to make an impenetrable layer for the bottom of the pond. This can be cement, sodium clay, polyethylene, pre-molded PVC liners or fiber glass. Consult your builder or your hardware store to get the best advice on which materials to use. Avoid substances like builder’s lime which are toxic to fish.
Once your pond is sealed, add your aquatic plants and rocks in and around the edges to hide the outline of the pond. Contract your electrician to do all the electrical connections for your pumps and filters. Remember to improve lighting around the pond for night viewing and use of the garden. Choose your water plants wisely, planting these in pots is a safer option compared to directly sowing them in the pond. A water feature in your garden will definitely add a new dimension that will both fascinate you and bring pleasure to your family. Take the time to choose the best water feature for your lifestyle. Be inspired.
Andrew is a horticulturist who can be reached by email at [email protected]
