Whether it is for their soothing sound or to cool the sizzle, water features are popular in Texas gardens. Every landscape no matter the size or style can have one.
Fountains with water have been a part of garden design for centuries. Most of the currently popular water features are more than a birdbath, but less than a pond. You can find a water feature that suits your own style and budget, from real to fake, large or small, and classic to contemporary.
A garden fountain adds the dimension of sound to your space, creating a soothing focal point for your landscape.
Disappearing fountains are especially popular. They are simple: water flows up through, then over a statue or vessel and disappears into a sunken reservoir and re-circulates. The reservoir, which holds water and an electrical pump, is often camouflaged by stones or plants.
Vessels come in a wide range of colors, textures, sizes and shapes. They may be ceramic, stone, wood, or metal and shaped as a column, bowl or jar. Stones, such as granite, can take a garden to a whole new level. If your outdoor space is small, a wall fountain may be for you. They can be placed or hung against your homes exterior wall. These also come with their own little reservoir. Just plug them in, fill with water and turn it on.
Purchase a ready-made fountain at a garden center, have a landscape designer tailor a feature just for your site or make your own.
Perhaps more interesting than any other water features are those made from found or re-purposed objects. Former Extension horticulturalist Felder Rushing has some unique ones in his garden repertoire. See them at: www.felderrushing.net/
Scale and proportion
A common error, experts say is going too small. To determine the best size for your garden, they suggest placing an object, perhaps something from your garage or a trash can, where you wish to create the feature. Observe your stand-in from different angles to decide if the size is right. Make adjustments, measure and then purchase an appropriate-size vessel.
Depending on where and what you buy, the materials can cost anywhere from about $100 to more than $1,000.
Things to know about a water feature
The site should be level, free of existing underground water or gas lines, and have access to a GFI protected power source. The size of the area should be double the diameter of your vessel and can be dug to a depth of 1-2 feet.
The reservoir may be lined with a pond liner, a large plastic container or a specially made fountain reservoir with a grate to hold the vessel and an opening for ease of access to the pump. The reservoir should be slightly above grade, with a slight slope to the sides, away from the vessel.
The pump size depends on your feature or vessel. It is worth the effort to consult a professional for pump recommendations to avoid costly errors. Make sure the pump hose is sturdy and does not kink.
Maintenance tips
Keep the leaves away In the fall, cover fountain with a cloth or tarp.
Once a year, clean the reservoir.
Protect the pump from freezing temperatures. Pump may need to be removed in extended periods of below freezing temperatures.
Maintain adequate water level to avoid pump burnout.