There is no denying that a pond brings a variety of benefits to your outdoor area. Aside from the obvious aesthetic improvement, it also adds serenity, relaxation, and ambiance to the space. Take these effects to the next level by installing a water feature in your pond. These efficient and simple-to-install devices will add an instant ‘wow!’ factor to your pond while helping keep the water sparkling clean.
Benefits of Water Features
To stay healthy, the pond’s water needs movement. Stagnant water can cause excessive algae to develop. While some algae are natural and even necessary in a pond, an excessive amount of algae can cause harmful conditions in the water. This would deprive fish of nutrients and release harmful gases and odors into the surrounding area. A water feature keeps your pond healthy and entertaining for everybody by adding movement, aeration, and nutrient dispersion.
By forcing water through a pump located below the water’s surface and spraying it across the surface, these features also aid in mixing the water. Fish and other aquatic life benefit from the temperature being balanced by this water circulation. In addition to disrupting the water’s surface, the water spray helps to reduce mosquito populations by making it harder for insects like mosquitoes to lay their eggs in your pond.
Not to mention how beautiful water features can be. In addition to creating a calming sound that is enjoyable for unwinding, they also provide a focal point that often sprays out in the pond in beautiful patterns. Paired with the right lighting, they produce an even more luxurious effect.
When it comes to water features, there are three common types you might want to consider. Let’s take a look at them.
Water Blade
Modern gardens are often decorated with water blades. As its name suggests, it’s a metallic blade that alters water flow to create a continuous water curtain that cascades into a pond-like waterfall.
A water blade is often composed of a customized wall-mounted box with a ‘blade’ shaped front lip. Water is then pumped up into the box, causing it to spread and pour out in a large sheet. Some water blade models have a bank of baffle plates hidden inside the box, causing the water to spread out much more effectively. When the water exits, the falling sheet is ‘laminar’ and relaxing.
Most of the water blades available on the market are made from stainless steel, but other materials, including copper and polymers, can also be found. To disguise, the box component can be hidden inside a brick or block wall, leaving only the front lip exposed. The pump is normally installed underwater in a pond or water container, and the water is subsequently recycled, eliminating the requirement for a main water connection.
Some pond blades can be equipped with an integrated LED light bar that illuminates the water as it exits the blade. The lit bar is positioned in a way that causes the light to travel partially down the water sheet, creating a spectacular effect at night.
Another great thing about this water feature is that you can easily adjust how much you want to hear the water noise above the background. A minor change in height can make a significant difference in the sound it produces. Installing a few blades at varying heights can also be very effective, with each one producing a unique sound.
For ponds covered with a grid and pebbles or slate chipping, and so on, a water blade with a silent splash feature could come in handy for lowering water splash and noise levels.
Fountain
Fountains consist of a fill basin and a fountain pump. Some need only a basic pond filter, which needs to be changed periodically. It is possible for a fountain to attract wildlife, so occasionally you might observe bird droppings.
A nozzle is the most common fountain accessory and can drastically change the way your fountain pumps out water. The right nozzle can significantly alter your water feature, altering anything from sound to water height.
With the majority of pond pumps, fountain nozzles are normally included as extras. They are frequently attached straight to the pump’s outlet and can provide a range of effects. Water splashes and noises from fountains vary in intensity, so pick one that fits in with your surroundings. A waterfall appearance and a fountain effect are only two of the amazing effects.
A mistmaker will also add a fantastic touch. Additionally, you can add accent lights, sconces, or scuppers to personalize your fountains.
Waterfall
Waterfalls, like fountains, enhance the sound, motion, and vibrancy of a pond. Typically made of natural stone slabs or boulders, waterfalls also add a vertical dimension, drawing attention as they move and flow.
With so many different waterfalls to select from, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for your pond. To get started, take a look at your pond’s size and shape. If you have a longer, narrower pond, a cascade waterfall would be a great option. A rock waterfall with a pool will better complement a larger, shallower pond. You’ll also want to consider the height and velocity of water for your waterfall. Would you prefer a calm trickle or a powerful waterfall with a spectacular drop? Selecting the right waterfall will take your pond to a whole new level, creating a calm paradise for you to enjoy.
Remember that you will need to maintain your water feature, regardless of the type you select for your pond. To keep weeds and algae out of the feature’s pipes beneath the water, you must regularly verify that all of the mechanical pieces are in good functioning order and keep your pond free of them.
Additionally, you must maintain the water in your pound at a healthy alkalinity level and clear of excess chemicals and minerals that could harm the water feature’s systems.
