There is nothing like the sound of water trickling down a small wall or rockery - it is at once soothing and delightful to the ear.
Pools, ponds and other wet things can easily be integrated into your garden with excessive cost or effort.
Water features add an element of delight in any garden - whether it is a small stream winding through a large garden or a fish pond to a simple birdbath in a courtyard garden.
Obviously, the size of your garden will determine whether you can even have a water feature, but even small gardens can sneak in a small little rockery that allows water to flow down in steps.
Fountains These always add a focal point of interest - everyone loves the sound and look of flowing water, especially if it is in a fountain or small waterfall.
There are many sizes and styles - and prices - but note: in the average-size garden, less is more.
A subtly placed fountain in the centre of the front lawn or next to an arbour can add both sound and a sense of coolness as well as looking great.
Sometimes something simple - e.
g.
a water wall - where water gently flows down a vertical surface that is grooved or embossed - is more than enough to add both atmosphere and interest.
Other water Features A small pond, with or without fish is a nice change within the plantings of gardens beds - especially those in semi shade.
It is also a great way to attract frogs to the garden.
In addition, they make an attractive feature when combined with a rockery.
You can build your own - and even the fake rock ones can look good if well made and suitably placed with loads of plants butting up against them.
If you have a large garden with a natural low spot in it where water collects - you may be able to turn that into a nice feature - with water lilies and grasses.
A birdbath in the centre of a lawn not only benefits the birds, but gives you the pleasure of having them come to your garden.
Birds will also eat many of the pests on your plants and help with pollination.
Combine with feeders hanging from nearby trees or posts.
The possibilities are endless and only restricted by imagination, budget and space available.
Large properties can develop a whole garden based on water - with a little stream, bridges, waterfalls and pools - with Koi swimming around.
Consider a Japanese style garden - elegant and soothing.
If you have a swimming pool - try to make it integrated into your garden as far as security and safety measures permit.
Place pots and urns of small trees, shrubs and flowers on the surrounds.