—WATER—
Different water features require varying degrees of maintenance. For instance, a small bird bath fountain may require similar maintenance to a larger water garden because of the need for constant refilling. Pools and spas demand the highest level of maintenance while built-in fountains with substantial water mass require the least amount of maintenance, especially if they are chlorinated.
Various manufacturers offer pond systems that allow you to install water gardens at affordable prices and with manageable maintenance requirements. Ponds only need to have a center depth of two feet, which is enough to keep fish alive even during winter. This depth is also under the typical height requirement for fencing imposed by local ordinances. To create the pond, flexible liners are used and covered by boulders and rocks when completed.
There are two main approaches to treating water in a landscape. The first one involves creating a balanced ecosystem through the use of floating and potted plants, maintaining the right number of fish (either Koi or Goldfish), allowing certain types of algae growth, and creating environments that promote the growth of bacteria. By taking into account the placement and exposure of the pond, these elements will provide you with a clear and clean water garden.
The second approach to water treatment involves shocking the water with periodic chlorine treatments. You can use either pool and spa products or regular household bleach for this purpose. This method is best suited for architectural fountains or features on a smaller scale.