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Should You Add An Outdoor Fountain To Your Garden?

Water fountains are meant to guarantee impressions and excitement to your guests and visitors. That being said, malfunctions like influxes may happen, especially if you opt for poorly-made outdoor fountains. That’s why a quality water feature may either make or break the look of your garden. 

Like any decorative piece, particularly with moving parts, an outdoor water fountain requires specific maintenance and care to attain its desired purpose and function properly. As always, choosing the finest one can ensure good quality. The thing is, sometimes, the best outdoor fountains can be challenging to find. 

But why do you have to invest in it? For a little help, here’s what you need to know about outdoor fountains. Read on to know more!

small roof garden design  Photo by Thomas J. Story from

Why Get an Outdoor Fountain? 

Out of all the water features that you can add to your garden, why an outdoor fountain? Well, the sound of flowing water is undoubtedly relaxing and soothing. It builds a marvelous and superb atmospheric element. 

Also, since a lot of people use their garden space as their resting or relaxation place, having an outdoor fountain can be an excellent idea. Even so, let us not only concentrate on audible features. 

An outdoor fountain can also produce or create visual stimuli. For the most part, it adds life and movement to a calm, serene place. What’s more, it offers homeowners the opportunity to furnish their landscape with functional artwork. 

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Moreover, just like any garden decoration, the choice of an outdoor fountain reflects or depicts your personal preferences. There are many options to select from, including classical, quirky, dramatic, delicate, large, small,and wall fountain construction.

modern garden style

Photo by SheKnows

Different Kinds of Outdoor Fountains

There are three categories of outdoor fountains. There are other types, but all of them fall into one of these three categories. The first category is table fountains, which are smaller sized outdoor fountains.

Typically, table fountains must be on a flat surface. They’re uncomplicated and straightforward to move around, so they’re usually ideal on porches or in patio settings. Most table fountains are very detailed because they are meant to be looked at close-up.

The next category is the wall fountain. As its name implies, they should be mounted on a wall and can either be small or large. Styles can range from portable ones to those inset into walls. Additionally, some can be hanged or placed on the ground.

The third and last category is floor fountains. These fountains are large-sized, which can be placed directly on the ground. Floor fountains can hold more water compared to table fountains, which, in turn, can be hard to move. More often than not, these fountains are utilized as landscape fountains, forming a stimulus point or centerpiece in a garden.

water fountain in small gardens Photo by Don Feria/Getty 

Placement and Care

If you are considering to add an outdoor fountain to your garden, then great! But keep in mind that there are many things to keep in mind before and after having one.

Electrical Requirements

For its placement, you have to plan well, especially for its electrical needs. Generally, electrical outlets are not common in the garden. Though solar-powered fountains exist, you will need a solar collector. Also, when it comes to large-sized fountains, you might need more electrical power to make it work.

There are times when extension cords can be your fountain’s electrical source. But make sure to choose an extension cord that’s meant to use outdoors. What’s more, you will need a moisture-resistant cord to ensure that water will not permeate into your extension cord. You don’t want to electrocute anyone in your garden.

water fountain design

Photo by Kelly Weber

Location

Massive fountains need more weight support, so ensure that the ground or surface you are mounting it on can support its weight. Also, don’t place your outdoor fountain under bushes, trees, or plants that heavily drop pollen or drip sap. Remember that these things can make your fountain look uninviting and can clog your pump.

Cleaning

Every fountain requires different cleaning and maintenance management. Before you install your water fountain, make sure you understand what its specific needs are. More importantly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve the best results.

a contemporary garden design with water fountain Photo by Mile High Landscaping 

Other Considerations

Keep in mind that mosquitoes breed in any standing water, usually in cold and dark areas. In this case, utilizing mosquito preventives is necessary. Also, if you have hard water issues, using distilled water might be required.

Takeaway

Whether free-standing or wall-mounted, large or small, adding an outdoor fountain is worthwhile. It offers a lot of advantages and benefits. For instance, it can help you relax just by the sound of flowing water. With that said, consider adding a splash of water feature to your landscape. Also, it is an investment that you will undoubtedly find well-spent.


By Naser Nader Ibrahim

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