Water features are among of the most popular items to have in your garden these days. They not only look stunning but also give out a relaxing sound.
Traditionally it was the garden pond that brought water into our gardens. They do attract frogs and other forms of wildlife. This may be just what you are looking for in the garden, but many people are not that keen on our slimy friends or creepy crawlies.
The most important part of a water feature is the pump. The expense and maintenance issue of water pumps is what kept them out of reach of the average domestic gardener. There are huge industrial sized pumps that can be used for gushing waterfalls or strong running streams. Alternatively we now have access to small, sealed, maintenance free pumps that are cheap and safe. Perfect for a small fountain or trickle effect. Modern technology has enabled them to run at a safe, low voltage and are powered by a plug in transformer.
Here you will find a guide to build your own modern fountain water feature that can be customised in any way you choose.
The Pump
Pumps are readily available on the internet or in shops. For this project, you will only need a small one that will produce a sprinkle fountain.
The Container
You need a reservoir to contain the water for your feature. I recommend approaching a manufacturer of bespoke wooden planter boxes rather than buying the cheap variety from your local garden centre or DIY shop. Quality speaks for itself when showing off your handiwork to friends.
The size of your container is determined by the dimensions of the pump. You need at least 2 inches clearance below the pump when it is in place, with the fountain head just above the top of the container. Having your container made to measure solves this problem.
The Reservoir
A high quality planter box may come with a fibreglass lining. If yours does and is watertight when filled, then you have no need to buy any pond liner. If yours leaks, however, pond liner can be bought cheaply at your local aquatic centre.
Position the Pump
Firstly place bricks or tiles in the bottom of the reservoir that the pump can stand on so that the fountain head is about 50mm above the top of the container. Be careful not to damage the fibreglass or pond liner. The cable to the pump will have to exit the container from the top, Try to keep it in a corner.
Add the Surface
In this guide, we are going to use pebbles for the water from the fountain to splash down onto before it drains back into the reservoir. Firstly place some wire mesh across the top of the container, leaving the fountain head protruding. It may need some support by placing some metal rods across also. Next add the decorative pebbles to the mesh. Use various sizes and colours.
All that is left now is to fill the reservoir with water and run the cable into your house or shed. Plug it in and bingo! You are now the owner of your own contemporary, one-of-a-kind water feature.
There are small lighting kits you could also add to your feature for a great night time display.
There are many variations you could apply to your water feature. Take the one in the image where water dribbles out of an old pot into a fish pond. The only limit is your imagination.
