What Plants to Put Around a Water Fountain

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Water Fountain

What plants to put around a water fountain – Creating a thriving and visually appealing landscape around a water fountain requires careful plant selection. Consideration must be given to the plants’ water needs, aesthetic qualities, the fountain’s size and location, and the overall maintenance involved. This guide will provide you with the information you need to make informed choices and create a beautiful, flourishing oasis.

Plant Selection Based on Water Needs

The success of your water fountain planting scheme hinges on choosing plants that thrive in the specific moisture conditions around the fountain. Different plants have varying tolerances for consistently moist soil, and understanding these differences is crucial to prevent plant loss.

Plant Name	Water Requirements	Sunlight Needs	Mature Size
Astilbe	Consistent moisture; prefers moist, well-drained soil	Partial to full shade	1-3 feet tall
Hosta	Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates some dryness once established	Partial to full shade	6-36 inches tall
Iris (Siberian or Japanese)	Moist to wet soil	Full sun to partial shade	2-4 feet tall
Ligularia	Moist to wet soil	Partial to full shade	2-6 feet tall
Calla Lily	Moist to wet soil	Partial shade	1-3 feet tall
Canna Lily	Moist to wet soil	Full sun	2-6 feet tall
Spirea	Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates some dryness	Full sun to partial shade	2-6 feet tall
Sweet Flag	Moist to wet soil	Full sun to partial shade	1-3 feet tall

Bog plants, such as marsh marigolds and pickerelweed, require consistently saturated soil. Water-loving plants, like Irises and Canna lilies, prefer consistently moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of dryness. Plants tolerant of occasional dampness, such as hostas and astilbes, are more adaptable to fluctuating moisture levels. Proper soil drainage around the fountain base is vital to prevent root rot, a common problem for plants constantly exposed to excess moisture.

Plants like ferns and some varieties of hostas can tolerate splashing water.

Plant Selection Based on Aesthetics and Design

A well-designed landscape around a water fountain uses a variety of plants to create visual interest and harmony. Consider height, texture, color, and the overall impact of different plant forms.

• Water Fountain Landscape Plan: A central fountain surrounded by a ring of shorter hostas (providing a lush green base), punctuated by taller spirea (adding verticality and airy plumes), with a few vibrant canna lilies (introducing bold color) nestled amongst them. Trailing lobelia spilling over the edges of the fountain basin adds a touch of delicate color and movement. Finally, a backdrop of taller Japanese maples provides visual contrast and seasonal color change.

Cascading plants, such as lobelia or creeping jenny, soften the hard lines of the fountain and basin, creating a sense of fluidity. Upright plants, such as spirea or grasses, provide vertical accents and contrast. Plants with textured foliage, such as ferns or hostas, add visual complexity. The gentle sound of flowing water is complemented by plants with soft rustling leaves or swaying stems.

Color theory plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal. For example, cool-toned blues and purples can create a calming atmosphere, while warm-toned oranges and reds can add vibrancy. Consider the colors of the fountain itself and the surrounding structures when selecting plant colors.

Plant Selection Based on Fountain Size and Location

The size of your fountain and the amount of sunlight it receives will significantly influence your plant choices. Similarly, your climate will dictate which plants will thrive.

Choosing plants for around a water fountain depends on the fountain’s size and your climate. Consider moisture-loving varieties like ferns or hostas. Before you begin, however, it’s worth considering the water source itself; you might want to check out this article on is spring water good for plants to ensure you’re using the best water for your plants.

Ultimately, the right plant selection will enhance the beauty of your water feature.

Fountain Size	Suitable Plant Size	Plant Examples
Small	Small to medium	Hostas, lobelia, dwarf irises
Medium	Medium to large	Astilbe, spirea, Japanese maples (smaller varieties)
Large	Large	Canna lilies, larger varieties of irises, bamboo

Plants should be chosen to complement the amount of sunlight the fountain area receives. Full sun areas might be suited to sun-loving plants like coneflowers or sedum, while shade-loving plants like ferns or hostas are better suited for shady areas. Hot, dry climates require drought-tolerant plants, while humid climates necessitate plants that can tolerate moisture.

Maintaining Plants Around a Water Fountain, What plants to put around a water fountain

Proper planting and ongoing care are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful water fountain landscape. Regular maintenance will prevent problems and ensure the longevity of your plants.

1. Planting: Prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Plant according to the specific needs of each plant species, ensuring proper spacing.
2. Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Adjust watering frequency based on the plants’ needs and rainfall.
3. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage plants.
4. Pest and Disease Control: Monitor plants regularly for pests and diseases. Address problems promptly using appropriate methods, such as organic pesticides or fungicides.
5. Protection from Fountain Operation: Protect plants from splashing water by using mulch or barriers. For fountains with significant vibrations, ensure plants are firmly established.

Illustrative Examples of Water Fountain Plantings

Here are three distinct planting designs showcasing the versatility of water fountain landscaping:

• Design 1: The Tropical Oasis: This design features vibrant canna lilies in various colors, lush ferns, and trailing coleus, creating a vibrant and tropical atmosphere. The plants’ heights and textures contrast beautifully, enhancing the visual interest around the fountain. The overall mood is one of exuberance and warmth.
• Design 2: The Serene Garden: This design utilizes calming colors and textures. Hostas in varying shades of green, along with delicate astilbes and soft blue forget-me-nots, create a peaceful and serene setting. The overall effect is one of tranquility and quiet beauty.
• Design 3: The Modern Minimalist: This design incorporates clean lines and simple textures. Ornamental grasses, such as feather reed grass, are combined with upright spirea and strategically placed rocks, creating a sleek and contemporary look. The overall mood is sophisticated and understated.

Popular Questions: What Plants To Put Around A Water Fountain

What should I do if my plants near the fountain show signs of root rot?

Improve drainage around the fountain base, ensure proper spacing between plants to allow for airflow, and consider using well-draining soil mixes. If root rot is severe, affected plants may need to be removed and replaced.

How often should I fertilize plants near a water fountain?

A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied according to package directions is usually sufficient. The frequency depends on the specific plant and soil conditions, but generally, fertilization during the growing season is recommended.

What are some common pests or diseases affecting plants near water features?

Common issues include fungal diseases (due to moisture), slugs and snails, and aphids. Regular inspection, preventative measures (like good air circulation), and appropriate treatments can help manage these problems.

Can I use artificial plants around my water fountain?

While artificial plants require less maintenance, they lack the natural beauty and ecological benefits of real plants. The choice depends on your priorities and aesthetic preferences.