Water Gardens in a Weekend: Projects for One, Two or Three Weekends

A serene pool that reflects the stars, the silky sparkle of a tiered fountain, the murmur of falling water outside your by the end of next weekend, water features like these can grace your garden, terrace, or balcony. Whether the goal is a handsome cobble fountain or a brimming urn, count on finding complete guidance right here—from planning (with or without plants, fish, reflected light, motion, or sound) to setting up, to distinctive variations. Almost none of the projects call for any building skills, and all use easy-to-find materials, sometimes as basic as a few plants, a tub, sealant, pebbles, and a stone. Install miniature water gardens in tubs; wall, column, and ring fountains; or raised and sunken pools—affordable luxuries—in a weekend.

Peter Robinson is a horticultural consultant, specialising in designing and installing water features, whose career extends over 35 years. His books include the RHS titles Water Gardening and Ponds and Water Features. A fellow of the Institute of Horticulture, he has lectured across the world.