garden waterfall

Building a Beautiful Garden Waterfall

In the article, we will discuss:

Primary Structure
Slope for the cascades
Stone for the cascades
Pond
Pumping system

A garden waterfall can make a beautiful and interesting addition to any garden, no matter how large or small.


To work well and blend in naturally with the rest of your landscaping, a waterfall must be carefully planned.

Be ready to give some intense thought to the introduction of a waterfall into your landscaping plans!

The Structure

When planning your waterfall, you値l need to consider two primary structures--the pool in which the water will actually fall and the cascading structure that you use to create the waterfall itself.

For a waterfall using stone that is larger than you can physically carry, we suggest you consider hiring a professional. For large waterfall projects, you should always hire a professional landscaping contractor to do the construction.

But if you are a do-it-yourself kind of person and/or you want to save some money, a small waterfall is not that difficult to construct on your own when it痴 well planned.

The Slope

First, if you do not already have a slope on your property, you値l need to plan the construction of an artificial slope behind the pond to create the beginnings of the cascade for your garden waterfall. You can purchase pre-cast forms that make this part of the job much easier.

The Cascades

The next thing to think about when planning your garden waterfall is whether there is any stone around your property that can be used to build the cascades. This will save you some money.

For the most natural effect, however, it痴 best to choose from a reputable stone yard where you can find stone weathered on all four sides. Stone covered with moss and lichen is the most desirable.

When choosing stone for your garden waterfall, keep in mind that you値l need a variety of sizes and shapes. For example, flat, slightly square rocks work best to create the spillway at the top of your garden waterfall cascade. Look for long, flat rocks that can form natural overhangs for your garden waterfall.

You値l need at least two dozen stones to get started and you may want a few extras to serve as additional garden accents, as well as to stabilize and hide any portions of your pond liner that might be visible.

The Pond

When it comes to planning for the pond itself, there are a few options.

If you already have an existing natural pond, then creating your garden waterfall will simply be a matter of constructing the cascades and implementing the pump system.

If not, then you値l need to decide whether you want to dig a natural pond or install a pre-purchased pond with a liner.

There are numerous advantages to a lined pond, including the fact that it can be easier to clean.

The Pumping System

The pumping system is the final factor to consider for your garden waterfall. Because it allows water to be pumped from the pond back to the cascade so that it can continually spill through your garden waterfall, this equipment is essential.

For a small waterfall, plan on purchasing a 120 GPH pump that will be able to handle 120 gallons of water per hour. If you are planning for a larger waterfall, you will need a larger pump.

With a little planning, you can quickly realize the garden waterfall of your dreams.

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