Episode: #8 21/10/2006
Presenter: Kim Syrus

Water always adds a special attraction to any garden. No matter what sized area you have, there is water feature to suit. Kim will help you to create a simple and easy water garden that will look absolutely stunning in your yard.

Begin by choosing a container that suits your garden or patio and it doesn?t matter what size or shape it is. You will need to silicone any drainage holes and seal the inside of the pot if it is not already glazed.

Next, look at some water plants. Iris?s are an excellent choice, adding height and colour to your feature. There are 2 main types; Louisiana, which are evergreen or Japanese that die down over winter. You can buy iris?s either as an open rhizome or already potted up. Contact Iris Acres in Meadows or Munn?s at Glandore for those featured.

Of course, everyone wants water lilies. The important point to remember is that these need to be placed at least 40 to 60 cm below the water surface to flower properly. This can be really hard to achieve if you are growing in a container.

Instead, try frilled lilies (Nymphoides spp.). These native lilies are evergreen and need only to be placed 15cm below the water surface to bloom.

Dwarf Papyrus (Cyperus prolifer) offers open texture and height while the variegated Acorus (Acorus gramineus variegates) will clump and spread beautifully.

Many aquatic plants are very invasive, so make sure they are potted before placing into your container. Position so that they receive half a day of sun, this will encourage flowering plants bloom while discouraging too much algae.

Fill about 2/3 full; the level will rise once you put plants in. Slowly lower each plant into the water getting rid of any air bubbles. If you need to raise the pot closer to the surface then use a clay brick or paver to rest the pot on, avoid concrete as this will make the water too alkaline. Arrange the plants with the taller at the back, spreading up front, and of course a generous sprinkle of duckweed. Top up with more water if needed.

Adding fish to the feature will both increase interest and keep the mosquitoes down. Goldfish are ideal, needing only still water to survive.

What a simple way of creating something so interesting and why stop at one, you will find spots for lots and lots of other water features throughout your garden.

Iris Acres
Wicks Road
Meadows
(08) 8388 3299

Munns AAA
700 South Road
Glandore 5037
(08) 8297 2722
www.munns&more.com.au