Water gardens are a joy. Not only do they provide endless hours of soothing water trickling, they will open up dimensions of beauty one has never thought of before.

Water gardens have become a weekend project, two at the most. With great improvements of PVC liners, pre-formed fiberglass, and the ease of obtaining rocks, plants, and fish, almost anyone can build a water garden.

Having a water garden will create moods of enchantment and tranquility.

Shop around. There are all sorts of systems now available.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• In choosing a location, keep in mind morning sun is best. However, the more sun there is, the more algae will grow.
• Locate away from large deciduous trees. Falling leaves tend to be messy.
• Try to design around existing plants.
• Be sure you have checked for all underground cables, telephone lines, and electrical lines.
• Plan for the possibility of running electricity to power the pump.
• After a rough cut for the liner or pre-form, line underneath with sand.
• Fill the pond only half full - let things settle in.
• Leave a rim to prevent ground water running in.
• When finished, fill and wait a week before plants and fish are added.
• Add oxygenating plants. They have the job of keeping the pool very clean.
• Koi and plants do not mix. Goldfish and plants are a good idea.
• Lilies and lotus are best planted in containers. Keep one plant per pot. This allows for flexibility in position and depth and all in all for easier care.
• Use a good mixture of garden loam and stick with aquatic fertilizers.
• Stay away from swamp muck, compost, peat moss, or manure as additives and planting material.
• Encourage all the toads and frogs. They will eat insects and help to control algae.
• When planting tropical water lilies it is best to plant them upright. With hardy water lilies, plant them to the side of the pot at an angle.
• It's tempting, but do not over feed the fish. Ten minutes after feeding get rid of the excess food.
• If evaporation occurs add only small amounts of water at a time. This will prevent making a chemical change.
• You may need to clean the pool every year, but if possible clean only every several years, in the spring.
• Keep dead foliage and debris out of the water as it occurs.
• Be generous, share plants and fish as they multiply. Too many will clog the beauty of your water garden.

See also: Backyard Habitat