Northshore Living: Backyard Tranquility

by Poki Hampton

The Alhambra castle in Granada, Spain, built in the 13th century, is the finest example of Moorish architecture in Europe. One of the most striking things about the castle is that there are water features everywhere. During the hot, arid Spanish summers, they provide the illusion of cool, while the gurgling and splashing of the water offer a sense of tranquility. The fountains are as plain as a small square bubble-up pond set into the side of a walkway or as ornate as the one found in the Court of Lions.

Our summers here on the northshore are just as hot as those of Spain, but our added humidity makes them even less tolerable. Couple that with our very hectic daily lives and one can see why water features have become so popular. They can soothe our minds, help melt away stress and give us a peaceful sanctuary created from rocks, fountains and plant textures just minutes from our back doors.

Water elements can be as simple or as complicated as your landscape, whether a small touch of grandeur to your front garden or a fabulous tropical oasis. The possibilities are endless.

Fountains can be wall-mounted or freestanding. Traditional wall fountains are of surfaces such as bronze, cement or stone. Usually, these have a basin at the base where water is collected and then recirculated. Fountains that are more contemporary may use a stone wall with water cascading over it for a dramatic effect. Ceramic bowls that overflow into one another create a modern waterfall.

Freestanding fountains can be as formal as an urn or statue in a pond or as casual as an arrangement of bamboo and a ceramic bowl that lends an oriental feel to your space. Many varieties can be purchased—all you have to do is add water and plug them into a power source. (But always consult an electrician before beginning any project using electricity!)

Backyard ponds offer a larger water feature. With the help of a professional, or as a do-it-yourself project, they are easier to build, more affordable and require less maintenance than ever before. Many books are available to guide the design and construction of a beautiful pond. Ponds can be tropical with lush vegetation, or a rock waterfall cascading into a stone reservoir using natural rock and boulders. Fish such as goldfish or koi can be added, but require more knowledge and maintenance than a pond with just lily pad vegetation.

All ponds and fountains need a means of circulating the water. Most owners use a submersible electric pump with a static head, which controls the pressure. A filter attached to the pump removes dirt and particles from the water to help keep the pond clean. Advanced technology and information make maintaining a pond easier than ever. When there are no fish in the pond, an anti-algae treatment or chlorination may be required to keep the pool sparkling. Circulating the water also prevents stagnation, which will attract mosquitoes.

Adding a water feature to your landscape creates a tranquil, year-round haven that soothes your spirit and body, adds to your family’s pleasure and increases your property value. Water features are truly an investment to enjoy!