Need to know

Q Which part of my garden should I put my water feature in?

A Make sure it’s a flat, stable area, sheltered from the worst of the weather – a windy location can result in lost water, and a sunny hot spot can cause more rapid evaporation.

Q How do I go about running a power source to the water pump? A If your pump needs one, have a power source installed by a certified electrician. Many garden centres that stock water features also sell a selection of weatherproof extension leads that you can use to plug in the pump for your self-circulating water feature and any lights you’re using with it.

Q How will my water feature attract wildlife to my garden? A Moving water will catch the eye of birds and be heard by them from some distance, so in no time you’ll probably see start to see small birds using your feature as a birdbath or to drink from. Insects need to drink, too, and if your mini pond contains aquatic plants, you may see pond-skaters and even damselflies, as well as pollinators.

Q How can water features benefit the atmosphere in the garden? A They can help to create a calm, cooler, more tranquil environment, especially on hot days. LED lights inside your water feature can enhance it at night, or you could direct solar-powered lights on it that charge during the day.