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Water Clear

Saturday, April 18th, 2009

Water Clear

Basic Tips for Getting Started in Water Gardening

There have been many new trends surfacing in gardening recently, and water gardening is one of the most popular. Water gardening can be in the form of waterfalls, ponds, fountains, and other similar designs. All of these water gardening designs can be enhanced by rock work combinations and lighting, plants, and even fish. Water gardening doesn't have to be a pond or natural water source either, it can consist of just a plastic tub, or basically anything else that can hold water.

Probably the most important thing to consider when you design your water garden the location where you choose to put it. Since plants and fish both need plenty of sunlight, areas in direct light away from trees and bushes are the most desirable places. This will also help prevent leaves and debris from collecting in the water.

The first step you should take When designing your water garden to decide what size you want your garden to be. This will depend on how much money you are willing to spend because water gardening can get expensive if you opt for a large garden full of plants, rocks, fish, and lights. Also consider the size of your property, and the amount of time you want to spend maintaining your water garden.

When you choose the type of aquatic plants you wish to have, it's best to remember that the plants should only cover about half of the water. Plants can be free floating or submerged; it depends on your personal preference. Some plants will provde pleasant scents, some supply more oxygen than others which will keep the pool healthy, and some are just used because they are beautiful. Fish are not only nice to look at but they are also very beneficial. Fish help keep debris at a minimum and help in controlling larva and other insects.

Probably the most difficult part of having a water garden is keeping water clear of algae. Algae problems are usually caused by too many nutrients in the water from feeding fish too often or from over-fertilizing plants. If ponds are made correctly and are maintained properly, algae problems and control will be kept at a minimum. You Can get rid of algae by reducing on the nutrients that cause the algae by cutting back on feeding and fertilizing, planting more plants, installing a filter system, or replacing existing water with fresh water. There are some chemicals that can be used, like copper compounds, but overuse can kill plant life and fish.

All garden pools regardless of size will need maintenance throughout the year. With proper planning you can ensure a healthy balance between living and decorative features of a water garden that can almost care for itself with simple maintenance inputs from you. Water gardening doesn't take anymore time than regular gardening, but obviously isn't near the same thing. You may be the type person who couldn't grow a flower if you tried but would be excellent at water gardening. If you are looking for a fun and rewarding hobby or just want to beautify your yard, water gardening is an excellent way to accomplish both goals.

About the Author

Denise Villani an author and the webmaster of several article directories. Find more articles and information on gardening by visiting GardeningStuff.info.