"The water that comes from the same spring cannot be fresh and stale both." Anonymous
Water reflects anything it sees – the blue skies and the clouds above you, and the environment around you capturing dancing tree branches, colorful flowers and statuary of extraordinary beauty. As for eternity you can be sure of one thing - the picture in the liquid canvass is eternally transforming and changing in synchronicity with the changing seasons. Adding water features to your landscape design can open up an entirely new world to you. The possibilities of creating your own garden utopia are endless and unlimited.
When adding a water feature to your garden it becomes an inspiring and relaxing focal point and will always take center stage. Expect people and wildlife to be drawn to that area. The atmosphere generated from the soothing sound of water will magnetize outdoor creatures to your water sanctuary, creating good energy (sheng chi) for all.
John Bullein said it best: “Water is your best friend or your worst enemy”. "Water is a good servant but a cruel master." It is important that you keep water clean, clear of debris and circulating. Murky, stagnant water creates negative energy (sha ch’i). This can lead to financial losses. During the dormant months you may want to take extra care of the water. If this is not possible you should drain the water or cover your fountain or pond. If you don’t intend to maintain your water feature you should abstain from adding one. If you lack the space to create a pond or waterfall there is always space for a free standing fountain, garden tub, or other containers capable of retaining water. With very little effort and expense you can create the results you desire.
"A pond is the eye of the garden in whose candid depths are mirrored its advancing grace." Louise Bebe Wilder
Adding Water Plants?
Start your pond or water feature with the utmost restraint. It’s not necessary to max out your credit cards in order to design your own personal Eden. When choosing water plants, take the full-grown plant-size into consideration or you might be in for a few surprises. Plants multiply very quickly. Floating plants add shade and therefore keep production of algae to a minimum. Oxygenating plants do not bloom because they are hiding under the water surface, yet they work over-time to balance the ecology of the pond.
Water Lilies are available in day and night bloomers - keeping the water clear and cool. Avoid planting water lilies near a water fall; Turbulence can damage them and cause their leaves to spot.
It does not need a huge investment to afford a water feature. A little sweat, a vivid imagination and a circulating pump returning the water to the base will do the job. Soon you will discover that the plants surrounding the water will lean toward it as if they are trying to grab the good energy.
Adding Fish?
"Goldfish are flowers that move." Han Suyin
Fish keep the water flowing. However, from the Feng Shui point of view you do not need fish. Also, you are better off without fish, than having sickly or dead fish. If you choose to introduce fish to your pond do some homework first on their care and feeding.
Goldfish are the best choice for a small area. Don’t expect goldfish to have the friendly disposition of the Koi, though they grow much smaller. Japanese Koi can get very old and may even survive you. They have the tendency to follow you around and most likely allow you to pet them. As fish need oxygen to survive it is an ideal solution to add a fountain or waterfall to aerate the water. Your fish will thank you.
Introducing a water feature may be necessary from a Feng Shui standpoint. The first result of a Feng Shui calculation is always the aspect of money. Is the home or business good for money? If not – Water needs to be introduced into the right zone outside. It can not be introduced just anywhere because it also can do more harm than good. Though having it introduced into the right spot – it will turn a home around to be “good for money”
Another over-looked aspect to most people is that every 9 years every building will be locked for money! Ever felt like you did all you could, yet for some unknown reason you could not bring enough money home? This might be due to your home or business being locked for money. Introducing the right amount of water to the right area outside will keep your building also un-locked.
As many homes need water outside – only few homes are in need of water inside. If water is indeed needed inside a home only a complete Feng Shui consultation can determine where exactly and how much watter is needed.
