Before going ahead with any plans on your water garden be sure to double check on all the safety measures. We all know the dangers that lurk where ponds and children are concerned but if all the standards of safety are adhered to then there should be no problem. Whatever precautions have been taken just remember that young children should not be left unattended or unsupervised around water at any time.
Ponds make a beautiful water garden feature just like the flowing fountain. Water gardens are a pleasurable experience to become involved with and also beautiful as eye candy to a lot of nature`s creatures. If tastefully designed - these garden ornamentations can create an atmosphere where a deep sense of tranquillity fills the air just by sound alone.
Depending on the individuals own personal preference you can have water features that are specially designed to give you a tropical world or an imitation of a mini Niagara Falls display. The options are endless as to what can go into your garden. Before putting into force any plans make sure to measure the space to be used - a cluttered water garden can spoil the beauty of it all.
Once you have made your mind up on what water feature it is you are having then it is time to choose the right accessories to enhance the dish so as to speak. Flowers- shrubs and lilies for the pond along with the fish have to be carefully thought through to make your mission complete and your dream come true of having a wonderful garden.
Water features are a unique way of putting a finishing touch to a well maintained garden thus upsetting the neighbours leaving them green with envy.
Architects when drawing up plans for local landscape projects will nearly always include a water feature. If DIY is your forte and you are going to take on the task your self in designing your own water garden then have a handy man at your side in the way of a do it yourself manual. Books and videos illustrate in great detail how to do the job right. Fabulous ideas for your creation can also be found from these. A master of any trade always uses the right tools - so make sure you have everything you need before starting the work.
Maintaining a water garden is important especially ponds which need cleaning on a regular basis especially if home to fish.
When installing your fountain or pond you must remember all the other bits and bobs that you may already have located in certain areas of the garden. Things like access in and out of your garden shed or where the seating area is going to be for your patio table and chairs should not be hampered. Do not cut corners in trying to save the pennies because this can cost you dearly if the right tools are not used.
Remember water features attract creatures.
If our aquatic friends like toads - frogs and newts are not to your liking then consider plant pots around the garden over flowing with cascading fragrant flowers then leave the kitchen tap running - just a suggestion so you don`t miss out on a water garden feature.
Sunday, 25 March 2012
Water Gardens That Upset The Neighbours
Sunday, 18 March 2012
Where to Put Your Water Garden
Like so many things in life, the location is one of the most important aspects to consider when making any changes. Here are a couple of things to consider when you build your dream water garden:
1. Call Before You Dig
While this one seems obvious, its surprising the number of people who forget to call the appropriate utility companies about phone,gas and power lines, only to accidently cut them. One simple phone call avoids all sorts of problems, ensuring that you wont have to worry about delays to your project and iritate your neighbours when their phone or electricity no longer works.
2. Made In the Shade
Consider the pattern of the sun and its impacts on shadows in your yard. Also, remember that the direction the sun crosses the sky will change between spring and fall. The angle of the sun will dictate what type of shade you need to create, and where to place your trees and water pond. Many plants require 6 hours of direct sunlight.
3. Regional Considerations
What type of weather and soil conditions can you expect in the area you live in? You may find that the type of soil will dictate the types of plants and trees you can use to create your backyard paradise.
4. Existing Structures
Keep in mind existing structures such as trees, fences and patios. Will your plan mean removing trees? Will the design of your artificial water garden compliment your existing back yard, or will further changes have to be made? These considerations may add to the cost of your project. Keep your neighbours informed of your plans. You may find that they are willing to share in the cost of removing that tree or help in rebuilding the new fence.
5. Hows It Flowin?
Spend time tracking the direction and intensity of water flows that plants need and intensity of that water flow. You may find that some parts of your yard recieve more water than others based on the flow of the water in your yard. You may find that there is a sloping effect in your yard. This will impact your vegetation. Also check for pools of water that gather in certain spots. Raising the level of parts of your yard will ensure that all of your yard recieves the same amount of water.
6. Drawing the line
Remember to respect property codes for your city and wishes of your neighbours. Having an envious neighbour is one thing, violating their rights is another. When in doubt, check it out.
7. Whats the Plan?
Keep the focus of your site in mind throughout all aspects of your yard. Are you building a barrier, an escape from the rest of the city or just looking to make your yard look better for the next owners? This should weight in on all of your decisions.
Before you build your back yard retreat, plan, plan, plan. Remember, there are several factors to consider and the above lucky 7 tips should help you make the perfect water garden yours.