Low Maintenance Water Features

Easy Installation

• A purchased water fountain may be the simplest way to add a water feature to your garden. The fountain contains a reservoir and a pump that moves water to the top of the structure. The trickling water fills the reservoir and is recirculated, creating the soothing sounds of splashing water and the peaceful calm of the reservoir. Place this type of water feature in the desired location, filled with water, loaded with batteries or plugged in to an electrical outlet. You can hang some prefabricated water fountains on a wall or set on a table. They come in a wide variety of sizes and costs.

Water Feature in a Tub

• Prefabricated water features come in distinct styles and may not have the desired effect or price point. You can construct an effective and easily maintained water feature from a pot, urn, or half-barrel type container. Choose the container in the shape and size you want. Locate the water feature near a properly grounded electrical outlet. Place a submersible water pump in the bottom with a vertical fitting for the water spout. Adjust the water pump and vertical fitting to the desired water flow.

Algae Prevention

• When your water feature is established, sunlight can cause algae to form. You have a few ways to prevent this or to keep it under control. One thing you can do is locate the water feature in an area that receives less sunlight. Place the water feature in a shaded patio area or under an awning. Filtered sunlight will mitigate algae growth. You might also want to plant water plants in the water feature. The plant life will shade the water surface and slow algae production.

Add Life

• Your water feature can benefit from goldfish, mosquito fish and possibly even a snail or two. Fish and snails will eat algae as it grows in the water feature. They also prevent mosquitoes and other water-based insects from reaching maturity by eating the larvae. Fish may nibble at the roots of some water plants, but are not likely to destroy them. Add small amounts of fish food as a training tool to get the fish used to your presence. Do not overfeed.