How to Make a Water Garden

Overview

Water features are simple to create and can be used in small and large spaces, making them very diverse and functional. Most containers can be turned into a water garden; plastic containers are ideal because they are water tight and weatherproof. Containers come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit any water design concept. Add water plants to your container for a beautiful water design and another feature to admire in your garden space. The sound of cascading water in your space will provide a relaxing and inviting atmosphere to enjoy.

Step 1

Pick a spot for your water garden feature that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and is near an electrical outlet. Make sure the ground is level using a carpenter's level.

Step 2

Build a fountain that can be easily moved and situated around the space; these are ideal for small spaces and if you relocate. Use a half-barrel plastic container for your water feature, which can be found at your local garden store.

Step 3

Place your container in the spot and fill halfway with water. Install a reciruclulating pump, which continuously pulls water from the container, sending it through the tube and out again. Place the pump at the bottom of your container.

Step 4

Plug the pump into the electrical outlet. Make sure your outdoor outlet has a ground fault interrupter circuit, a type of outlet that acts as its own circuit breaker that will trip in the event that the pump has problems.

Step 5

Fill the rest of the container with water until it's around three-quarters full. Let the water circulate at least 2 hours and until the temperature is constant; this will help the aquatic plants assimilate to the water. Cold water can shock a plant.

Step 6

Add floating aquatic plants to the container for a beautiful design. Add water hyacinths and lilies to the container. Use cascading water plants, such as parrot feather or water mint, in the front of the container for a dramatic effect.