A water garden brings life, tranquility, and a touch of nature to the garden. Rippling water calms the senses, reflects sunlight, and attracts animals such as birds, dragonflies, and frogs. Whether you have a large garden, a small patio, or just a balcony, water features can be integrated in a variety of ways . From spacious ponds to stylish fountains and decorative rock fountains, there are suitable ideas for every outdoor space. In this article, we show you how you can design your garden with water—practical, inspiring, and for every space.
Water in the garden: diverse design options
Water lends a garden a special atmosphere . It brings movement into play, creates a pleasant background sound, and simultaneously provides a habitat for animals and plants. Design options range from large pond landscapes with aquatic plants and fish to small water bowls, babbling fountains, and rock fountains.
Which type of water feature is best depends on your space, the desired level of maintenance, and your personal taste. Large gardens lend themselves to more complex designs such as natural ponds or streams , while terraces and balconies are more suited to compact solutions such as mini-ponds or water features.
It's important that the water feature is harmoniously integrated into the garden design—for example, through appropriate planting, natural stones, or lighting accents. This way, it becomes not just a visual eye-catcher, but a true highlight of the garden year.
The dream of a garden pond
For many garden lovers, a garden pond is the ultimate water garden. It creates a natural oasis and simultaneously provides a habitat for frogs, insects, birds, and aquatic plants . Its tranquil surface brings a special depth and serenity to the garden.
Creating a garden pond
A pond should be carefully planned. First, choose a suitable location—ideally sunny, but not in direct sunlight all day, and not directly under deciduous trees. The size and shape can be customized—whether round, oval, or naturally curved.
When digging the pond, you should plan for different depth zones : a shallow water zone (approximately 20–40 cm deep) for plants such as reeds and marsh marigold, a middle zone (40–80 cm), and a deep water zone (at least 80 cm) for water lilies or fish. The pond pit is then lined with pond liner or a pond basin is inserted. Edge zones can be designed to resemble natural vegetation with stones, gravel, and plants.
A pump or filter ensures good water quality, especially if you plan to add fish. A design with plants, decorative elements, and lighting completes the overall look – and your pond will soon become a favorite spot in the garden.
Mini pond: Perfect for balcony and terrace
Even in a small space, you don't have to go without water. A mini pond brings the calming effect of water to your balcony, patio, or small garden – without much effort.
Make your own mini pond
A mini pond is quick to build . You'll need a waterproof container—such as a zinc tub, a ceramic bowl, or a large flowerpot without a drainage hole. Fill it with water (ideally rainwater) and decorate it with plants like dwarf water lilies, duckweed, or sweet flag.
Gravel or stones on the bottom provide stability and a natural look. A small solar fountain or mini pump will add movement to the water and prevent algae growth. Make sure the mini pond is at least 20–30 cm deep so the water doesn't heat up too quickly and the plants thrive.
There's also plenty to add to the decor: Floating candles, small sculptures, or lighting add atmospheric accents – perfect for balmy summer evenings on the balcony. Watch the video to learn how to create a mini pond .
Garden fountains: Discover different water features
A garden fountain is not only decorative but also acoustically beneficial. The steady trickling has a relaxing effect and masks distracting ambient noises. There are many variations available – from classic stone fountains to modern stainless steel fountains.
Freestanding fountains with water basins are real eye-catchers in gardens or on patios. Wall fountains are ideal for small gardens or courtyards. Solar-powered models are particularly popular, as they operate independently of the power grid and are easy to set up.
Combinations with plants or lighting are also possible – for example, a fountain among lavender bushes or an illuminated patio-style wall fountain. Those who like to get particularly creative can even create a custom water feature using an old pitcher, bamboo canes, or glass.
Spring stone: A highlight made of natural stone and water
A fountain stone combines naturalness with elegance. Water emerges from the center of the stone and flows gently over the surface—a calming yet understated element for the garden, patio, or even the entryway.
How to install a fountain stone
Installing a fountain stone is easier than you might think. You will need:
- a suitable spring stone (granite, basalt or sandstone),
- a water reservoir (e.g. a tub or bowl for burying),
- a pump,
- a grate or lid on which the stone stands.
The reservoir is sunk into the ground, the pump is placed inside, and connected to the fountain stone via a hose. The pump pumps the water up through the stone and then flows back into the reservoir—a closed water cycle. Make sure the system is regularly refilled with water, especially during high temperatures.
A fountain stone requires little maintenance and can be decoratively set off with plants, gravel or mulch.
Conclusion on the water garden
A water garden brings harmony, movement, and natural beauty to any outdoor space—whether with a large garden pond, a stylish garden fountain, a space-saving mini pond, or a decorative fountain. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a tranquil space that will delight you year-round.
Water Garden: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a water garden?
A water garden is a garden in which water plays a central design role—be it in the form of a garden pond, fountain, stream, or decorative water feature. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, it provides a habitat for animals and plants and has a calming effect on the body and mind.
How deep should a mini pond be?
A mini pond should be at least 20 to 30 centimeters deep to prevent the water from heating up too quickly and to allow sufficient space for plant roots. This depth is also sufficient for small animals such as newts or frogs. Important: The mini pond should be located in partial shade, if possible.
How do you create a water garden?
A water garden begins with planning: Which elements should be incorporated? Where is there space for a pond, fountain, or water feature? This is followed by the construction or installation of the water element, the installation of technology (e.g., pumps), and the planting and decoration. A good balance between technology, nature, and maintenance is crucial for a harmonious overall appearance.
What can you do with water in the garden?
The possibilities are endless: You can create a pond, build a stream, set up a fountain, install a water feature, or even create a waterfall. Even small elements like water bowls or mini ponds are effective. Those with a sustainable mindset can collect rainwater in cisterns and use them to irrigate the garden. In short: Water brings dynamism, life, and relaxation to every garden.
