Location

• When planning your water feature, carefully consider its location. Avoiding trees is a good idea, as they have root systems that will be disturbed by digging, and they may drop leaves in the water constantly. The second factor is visibility. It is going to be a focal point, so it would be better not to put it near any unsightly areas such as the garbage can storage area.
  
  

Basics

• Every water feature has a reservoir with an optional fountain or waterfall feature. The reservoir can be above ground, in a barrel or other container, or it can be dug into the ground. The reservoir portion can be as large as a pond or lake, if you have enough room. If space and cost are a bit more of an issue, a simple pond can be made from a plastic splash pool for kids or premade pond liners, available at landscaping stores. Take care to make both above- and belowground items watertight, either by using a a plastic liner or making a clay base. You can add fountains and waterfalls of varying complexity to both types. An even more economical option is a wall-mounted fountain, which takes up very little space and provides a lovely background sound for your patio. Wall-mounted models are available in many different sizes and styles.
  
  

Plants

• Plants, such as grass, reeds or small shrubs, add excellent texture to a water feature. They soften the edge visually, tying it into the landscaping around it. They also create more of a habitat for creatures that might use the water hole you have made. You can position landscape plants around the outside and put water plants directly in the reservoir. Fish enjoy hiding in the root systems of water plants such as water lilies, irises and lotus.
  
  

Running Water

• A fountain or waterfall feature adds depth and drama and oxygenates the water for any fish inhabiting the reservoir. These are simple to construct with a pump and some hose line available at most home improvement stores. Waterfalls can be made with rocks, wood or any other durable material that water can move across and around. You can use considerable creativity by making multiple levels and using different materials.
  
  

Fish

• Fish serve many functions in a water feature. Many people find them quite relaxing to watch and may place a bench near the pond for viewing. Fish also keep pest populations under control. Mosquitoes need a water source in which to lay their eggs, which could turn your relaxing water feature into a pest breeding ground. Fish eat the larvae and other unsavory critters looking to set up camp in the water and your yard. For smaller water features, various species of goldfish are suitable; if you have more space, koi are a beautiful option.