Landscaping Ideas: Turn Your Backyard into a Paradise

Many of our new customers at American Aquascapes contacted us initially in the "ideas" phase of revamping their outdoor space for their home or business. If you are reading this then chances are you are also looking for ideas to improve and beautify your landscape design. Water features are an excellent choice and can be customized to fit a variety of tastes, environments and budgets. There are 4 basic types of water features:

An ecosystem pond is an excellent choice for those who desire a natural looking water feature complete with plants and fish. There are 5 elements that work together to provide low-maintenance beauty to your outdoor space: circulation, filtration, rocks and gravel, fish and plants. The fish nibble on plants and algae. The waste produced by the fish and other natural processes are broken down by aerobic bacteria which thrive in the biofalls and on the rocks and gravel. Once broken down, the nutrients are absorbed by the plants. The circle of life is complete! You can learn more about the Ecosystem Pond Approach here.

Pondless waterfalls are simply a re-circulating system of water without a pond. Their size and shape can be easily adapted to fit in nearly any space: an empty corner of your front or back porch or near the entrance of your business are just two examples of locations they can be installed. The waterfall can have a short stream or it can meander over a distance through a backyard or next to a walkway. Enjoy the sound of running water and the sight of marginal aquatic plants without the need of a pond! Learn more about the various types and sizes of pondless waterfalls here.

Fountainscapes provide the soothing sound of running water and typically come in kits. They come in a variety of decorative shapes, styles and sizes that can be easily installed in a variety of spaces. Whether you put them by a window as a bird bath or a center piece for a backyard garden, fountainscapes are a great way to enjoy the benefits of a water feature without a waterfall or pond. Follow this link if you would like to see the various fountain kits we offer.

Container water gardens (a.k.a. Patio Ponds) are a great way to "get your feet wet" as a water feature or pond owner. Patio ponds allow you to enjoy the pleasure of fish and aquatic plants in almost any setting. Our container water gardens have the look and feel of real stone and the durability and lightweight of fiberglass. They even age like real stone! They also contain plant shelves to make adding your favorite aquatic plants quick and easy. Take a look at some of the container water gardens we offer here!