There have been many new trends surfacing in gardening recently, and water gardening is one of the most popular. Water gardening can be in the form of waterfalls, ponds, fountains, and other similar designs. All of these water gardening designs can be enhanced by rock work combinations and lighting, plants, and even fish. Water gardening doesn't have to be a pond or natural water source either, it can consist of just a plastic tub, or basically anything else that can hold water.
Probably the most important thing to consider when you design your water garden the location where you choose to put it. Since plants and fish both need plenty of sunlight, areas in direct light away from trees and bushes are the most desirable places. This will also help prevent leaves and debris from collecting in the water.
The first step you should take When designing your water garden to decide what size you want your garden to be. This will depend on how much money you are willing to spend because water gardening can get expensive if you opt for a large garden full of plants, rocks, fish, and lights. Also consider the size of your property, and the amount of time you want to spend maintaining your water garden.
When you choose the type of aquatic plants you wish to have, it's best to remember that the plants should only cover about half of the water. Plants can be free floating or submerged; it depends on your personal preference. Some plants will provde pleasant scents, some supply more oxygen than others which will keep the pool healthy, and some are just used because they are beautiful. Fish are not only nice to look at but they are also very beneficial. Fish help keep debris at a minimum and help in controlling larva and other insects.
Probably the most difficult part of having a water garden is keeping water clear of algae. Algae problems are usually caused by too many nutrients in the water from feeding fish too often or from over-fertilizing plants. If ponds are made correctly and are maintained properly, algae problems and control will be kept at a minimum. You can get rid of algae by reducing on the nutrients that cause the algae by cutting back on feeding and fertilizing, planting more plants, installing a filter system, or replacing existing water with fresh water. There are some chemicals that can be used, like copper compounds, but overuse can kill plant life and fish.
All garden pools regardless of size will need maintenance throughout the year. With proper planning you can ensure a healthy balance between living and decorative features of a water garden that can almost care for itself with simple maintenance inputs from you. Water gardening doesn't take anymore time than regular gardening, but obviously isn't near the same thing. You may be the type person who couldn't grow a flower if you tried but would be excellent at water gardening. If you are looking for a fun and rewarding hobby or just want to beautify your yard, water gardening is an excellent way to accomplish both goals.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my watermelon not grow? they grow to be ...
By: alicia | 24-07-2008
why does my watermelon not grow? they grow to be about an inch in length and then they die and turn brown. how do i prevent that?
When is it okay to pick your cantaloupe?
By: BGalzarano | 24-07-2008
How do you know when it is okay to pick your cantaloupe off the vine?
Corn falling over
By: pepino305 | 23-07-2008
my corn was growing great. After watering, I say that 50% of my corn fell over. Can anyone tell me what is the rootcause? Thanks,
Wilting tomato plants
By: noldan | 23-07-2008
Hello, Help! My three 5 foot potted tomato plants just drooped one day. One came back, another is fighting and the other does not look like it is not going to make it. All have alot of tomatoes. My first thought is I over fertilized them with Miracle Grow. Is there anything I can do to save them? What makes it interesting is I am growing them on a balcony with no sun only after 4pm. It is around 80 to 90 degrees. I have pulled the worst one out of the direct afternoon sun.There is no sign of infection just green droppy leaves. Thank you, Michelle noldan@comcast.net
My cucumber leaves look healthy. As the cucumber ...
By: Gardening | 23-07-2008
My cucumber leaves look healthy. As the cucumber forms on the blossom they are about one inch long and they turn yellow and just die. I did get 2 healthy cucumbers before this started happening.
Water Temperature
By: countryrose5678 | 23-07-2008
What is the present water temperature in Ortley Beach, NJ?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Gardening Articles
Japanese Knotweed Removal Must be Speedy
By: Paul | 24/07/2008
Taking action for Japanese knotweed removal is imperative as the problem will not disappear, in fact Japanese knotweed, if left untreated, will increase.
Xeriscaping Incorporates Financial and Environmental Benefits
By: Jason S Skmich | 24/07/2008
Designing one’s landscaping is always a delicate dance, and one based primarily on personal tastes. In economically challenging times, however, incorporating landscaping that serves as an advocate for water conservation is also vitally important.
How to Choose Right Garden Tool for Gardening Enjoyment?
By: Abhinav Sidana | 24/07/2008
If you love gardening and would like to have a passion for it, you need to select the right garden tools.
Valentines Day Flowers
By: Rakesh Gaikwad | 23/07/2008
Valentine's Day sees the sales of flowers, predominately roses, exceed ten million in one day. It is estimated that over one million British men and women spent in excess of thirty million pounds on Valentine flowers. Men purchase the majority, however, it is becoming increasingly popular for women to buy...
Why We Should Take Pride in UK Flowers
By: Rakesh Gaikwad | 23/07/2008
Traditional UK flowers incorporate a whole host of flowers grown in the UK. Fragrant arrangements packed with an abundance of freesias and dappled with fern leaves displayed in pretty wicker baskets are a very popular choice which is ideal for sending to people of all ages and give a true...
Do You Need Backyard Landscaping Ideas ?
By: Randy Letter | 23/07/2008
You are lucky enough if your house have a backyard hence you will need to think of few backyard landscaping ideas to readjust your backyard space so your guest or visitor will envy you. It does not matter how much budget you will need to design your backyard since there...
Tranquility in Your Garden With a Garden Fountain
By: Lisa Sousa | 23/07/2008
It is well known that running water can help you to relax. A garden fountain can help to add beauty to your backyard and provide a centerpiece to your gardening and landscaping. It will also enhance the peace and tranquility in your garden.
Choosing a fountain isn't always easy. There is...
An Inside Look at the UK Flower Industry
By: Rakesh Gaikwad | 23/07/2008
Within the UK flower industry a vast amount of the flowers used by florists are cultivated and grown in the UK. In spring the UK flower growers produce the most amount of daffodils in the world, many of which are exported. Narcissi, daffodils and tulips are grown throughout the UK....
Home and Family 
