How to build a water feature in a weekend

Nothing transforms a garden quite like water. The gentle sound of trickling, the shimmer of reflected light or a bird happily drinking, adds life and calm to any outdoor space. Luckily, creating this sense of serenity doesn’t have to be complicated –today’s water features are easier than ever to install and enjoy. 

Ground it with planting

Plants play a key role in softening and anchoring a water feature within the garden. Surrounding it with shrubs, perennial flowers and foliage helps blend the structure into the landscape, creating a more natural, balanced look. This exuberant summer garden (pictured above) is largely made with perennial plants. Designed around a bird bath, this garden will attract birds and bees. Here's how to recreate this scene.

Plant list

• PINK CONE FLOWER (Echinacea)

planted here in pink and white forms.These hardy plants feature large, daisy-like flowers with cone-shaped centres that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

• YELLOW BLACK EYED SUSAN (Rudbeckia)

grows to 1m and bears cheerful yellow flowers with prominent dark centres.

• YELLOW DAY LILIES

are pushing through near the bird bath, their slender green leaves and vibrant flowers complementing the surrounding plants.

• PERENNIAL PHLOX

with tall lilac stems is flowering at the back of the border, adding height and a splash of summer colour.

1. Simply add a solar-powered floatingf ountain to a decorative bucket filled with water to instantly transform it into a garden fountain.

 

Just plug and play

If you’re after instant impact, ready-made ‘plug and play’ water features are the simplest solution. Available in a range of styles – from modern urns and bubbling spheres to tiered stone fountains – these self-contained units come with everything you need. Just fill with water, plug into power and enjoy. They’re ideal for balconies, courtyards or patios where there’s no room for digging as well.

Dig-in a ready-made pond

If you have a backyard, a pre-formed pond liner is a simple way to create a permanent feature. Choose a shape that suits your garden, dig a shallow hole, and place the liner securely before filling with water. Surround the edges with pebbles, flagstones or soft plantings to help it blend naturally into the landscape. Add a small pump or fountain head for gentle movement and to keep the water fresh.

2. An old-fashioned pump complete with a pail makes for a charming scene –even if it's not functional!

3. Turn any vessel into a water feature: seal the drainage hole, add a pump, fill with water, tuck in a few plants – and voilà!

Create ponds in pots

Bring charm to small spaces with a miniature pond using a large-glazed pot, trough or half wine barrel. If the container is porous, line it or seal the drainage hole with a water proof sealant. Fill with water, then add a small solar or electric pump to keep it gently circulating. Float a few aquatic plants like dwarf water lilies for colour and oxygenation. These pint-sized ponds are perfect for small spaces and surprisingly easy to maintain.

TOP TIP

Even the smallest pond can add charm and serenity

Tucked away amidst the flowering perennials a large pot filled with water creates an inviting surprise adding extra special beauty to the garden.

Pick a place with impact

Think about where your water feature will make the most impact – ideally somewhere you can enjoy it from indoors or a favourite outdoor seat. Sunlight encourages algae growth, so a spot with partial shade is best. Use planting to frame the feature, soften its edges and bring a sense of harmony and movement to the surrounding garden.

Imagine the birds loving this! A water feature always does double duty as bird bath so a haven for visiting birds.

 

How to install a bubbling fountain

You can easily add a bubbling fountain to your garden feature with a small submersible pump. Simply purchase a model off the shelf, place it in a watertight pot or vessel and top up with water. Look for solar powered options for effortless installation.

For safety and maintenance

Water, even shallow, should be treated with care if children or pets are around. Cover small ponds with mesh, ensure electrical cords are protected and avoid slippery surfaces around the edge. Keep water topped up and free of debris, clean pumps regularly and remove fallen leaves to maintain clear, healthy water.

1. Pick a water feature that matches your garden’s personality– whimsical or just plain charming.

2. Use pebbles and plants to blend water dishes naturally into the landscape.

3. A solar-powered fountain turns a simple bowl of water into a delightful feature.