Perhaps no other type of landscape feature combines serenity and drama in such an elegant and timeless way as a water feature. Its beauty and versatility makes water the element that takes an outdoor living space to a new level. Here are some water feature ideas from a garden supply store in Harrisburg, PA.

Pondless Waterfall

This beautiful feature is low-maintenance. It allows you to add moving water to a landscape without sacrificing too much space—in fact, it’s a design feature that could be ideal for small backyards, a corner of the patio, or by the front door.

It works by directing water down a waterfall into a hidden underground basin, and then cycling the water back up to the spillway using a hidden submersible pump. These types of waterfalls do not use filters. They are considered easier to install than waterfalls that empty into a pond, and you can easily winterize it by removing the pump and bringing it indoors. It’s also considered safer than some other water features, since there is no pond that could pose a drowning danger.

Related: 4 WILD WATER FEATURE DESIGNS FOR 2018 IN HARRISBURG

Water Fountain

Fountains are another type of water feature that can be right at home in any decor and space. From a tiny bubbling tabletop fountain to a large, ornate focal point for a grand patio, fountains can—like waterfalls—be mellow or dramatic while providing just the right ambience for outdoor living. They could be the ideal solution to liven up an otherwise unused corner of the patio; they can offer a cheerful welcome to your front door; and they can even double as a bird bath by slowing the intensity of the flow of water.

Pond

This large water feature adds beauty and tranquility to a landscape. Whether it’s filled with a cold-hardy fish such as koi or serves as a habitat for local birds and wildlife, a pond is an opportunity to create a naturalistic aquascape right in the backyard. A pond needs an aeration system to keep the water from stagnating. This could be in the form of a bubbler or a waterfall.

Add a space at the water’s edge where you can place a bench or comfortable chair, and there will always be a place for peaceful reflection or wildlife watching.

Related: CREATE STUNNING WATER FEATURES THIS SUMMER IN YORK, PA, WITH THE HELP OF OUR MASONRY SUPPLY

Reflecting Pool

A reflecting pool (or gazing pool) is a more structured version of a pond. Typically, it is a geometric shape that directs the eye to the reflection cast on the water. While not intended for swimming, a reflecting pool can add both daytime and nighttime beauty to a landscape.

Experiment with different types of natural stone or even rounded glass at the bottom to add interest, and consider including submersible lighting to make the reflecting pool an after-dark feature.

Waterfall

Unlike a self-circulating pondless waterfall, a waterfall that empties into a pond could also add interest to a landscape. If your property is not sloped, you may wonder how to build up the earth in such a way that it doesn’t look like an artificial mound of soil and rocks. This can be achieved by varying the slope using some steeper sections and some shallower sections, and through varied plantings and the use of natural stone.

Related: HOW A CUSTOM AQUASCAPE WATER FEATURE CAN IMPROVE ANY LANCASTER, PA, OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

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