Despite their versatility and popularity, water features are not for everyone. Before you start dreaming up a waterfall or a pond of any size, here’s what water feature experts have to say about the pros and cons so you can make the right decision for you.

Why a Water Feature Is Not a Good Idea for Every Yard 

Though they look pretty and self-sufficient, all water features require maintenance to keep them in top condition.

“Water features with ponds tend to require much more maintenance and upkeep, especially in yards with a dense tree canopy,” says Steve Stewart, president of Landscape East & West.

And this is without considering weather-specific accommodations, maintenance, and prep that needs to happen. Jennifer Cassels, president of The Blissful Place, gives the example of stone models that need to be drained, covered, and winterized annually to prevent cracking in colder climates.

“Depending on the type of water feature, homeowners should also consider the ongoing costs of electricity and water, along with routine maintenance,” Cassels adds. “This can include cleaning the pump, removing debris, refilling the water as needed if an automatic refill system isn’t installed or compatible, and using water treatments to keep the water clear and to help prevent algae growth and mineral buildup.”

Over time, pumps and other components may need to be replaced, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

“And water features with ponds can create a safety hazard if you have young children or small pets, and attract mosquitoes and other pests,” Stewart says.

Installing a water feature in your yard is a large commitment, and not taking proper care of it can lead to a host of issues.

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Benefits of Water Features in a Yard

Of course, we all know that water features can add so much beauty to an outdoor space, whether used as a show-stopping centerpiece or subtle accent.

“From grand cast stone fountains and pondless waterfalls to bubbling urns and simple birdbaths, the sound of water creates a peaceful atmosphere, helps soften unwanted background noise, and encourages people to spend more time relaxing and enjoying their backyard,” Cassels adds.

For Stewart, not only humans benefit from water features.

“Adding that water source to your yard will attract the local wildlife and create that environment that lets them thrive improving the overall health of your landscape,” he says.

From pollinating insects like bees to birds and amphibians, visitors to your yard need water to drink.

4 Alternatives to a Water Feature

If you conclude that a water feature is not for you, consider these options.

Dry Stream

For homeowners who do not want to maintain a water feature, Stewart suggests waterless elements like a dry stream bed. You can build it yourself or have it built by a professional landscaping company.

The stone-line channel serves a functional and aesthetic purpose. Most of the time, it stays dry, but it may fill temporarily with rainwater runoff during heavy rains or during snowmelt.

Ornamental Grasses

Tall ornamental grasses, preferably native ones such as switchgrass, create a focal point in your landscape and mimic the movement and sound of a water feature.

Wind Features

Kinetic wind features also create a focal point, and their rhythmic motion in the wind can be as soothing as that of a water feature.

Bee Cups

If providing water for pollinators is your main incentive to want a water feature, bee cups are a low-cost, simple alternative on a miniature scale. Old saucers filled with water serve the same purpose.