KEY POINTS:
Of all the elements of a garden, water is the most irresistible. It has been used as a feature in gardens for thousands of years. To the ancient Persians it symbolised the river of life. Even now it represents peace and a dash of prosperity.
Large ponds and fountains require skilled installation and may need to comply with regulations. Small ones are within the reach of everybody.
Really small water features can be surprises to be discovered by the attentive visitor, but usually you will want to place your water feature where you will get maximum enjoyment from it - in the outdoor entertainment area, near an entrance or path, or to be viewed from inside. Even a small water feature needs careful positioning to be the dominant element of the area. The surrounding planting and outdoor spaces should act as a setting for it and not compete for attention. The water feature should blend happily with the overall style of the house and garden.
When you design your pool, be aware that if it is deeper than 40cm it must be fenced. A bubbling pot with a reservoir concealed beneath pebbles is a popular option if you are concerned about safety and small children. Garden centres that specialise in water gardening can help you choose pots, pumps and equipment to create a unique water feature.
All water features require maintenance. A fishpond needs cleaning from time to time. However, fish earn their keep by eating mosquitoes. Small fountains and bubbling pots are easy to maintain but need frequent topping up - the smaller the reservoir the more you need to be alert to this. If moving water and fish are to be included in the same water feature, it has to be big enough for the fish to live in still water away from the spray and movement of the fountain or waterfall.
Water brings movement, light and sound to your garden. All sorts of night lighting effects are available to add to the pleasure. The sound of moving water is soothing, but be careful that the sound is gentle and not at the pitch that reminds the listener that they need to go the loo.
Once your water feature is running smoothly, relax and enjoy one of the oldest of garden pleasures, the sound and sight of the river of life.
* Lyndell Shannon has been a garden designer since 1994.
