When you close your eyes and visualize nature, one of the first things that comes to mind is likely a body of water, or a trickling creek or stream. The healing power of water has been noted for centuries. Afterall, being ¾ water ourselves, it’s no surprise that we love water and water features, especially if we have the opportunity to add it to our homes and gardens. Whether you prefer a pool for those hot days, a hot tub for those cool days or a birdbath or waterfall fixture, there are many benefits to having water features as part of your landscape.

1. Flowing water soothes the soul and has a calming effect on our psyche. Just as humans have always been fascinated by fire, the fascination with water is almost as strong. Throughout history, regardless of faith or circumstance, the healing power of water has been well recognized. Flowing water sounds are often used to help people sleep at night, calm down, and as a backdrop sound for meditation. Adding a water feature to your landscape can evoke peaceful feelings, help you relax after a long day, and they look pretty too.

2. Water features and running water attract wildlife. Most people enjoy having nature right outside their door. Whether you enjoy feeding the birds, watching pollinators land atop flowers, or seeing a mother deer with her fawn strut through your yard, adding a water feature will encourage wildlife to stop by your lawn to take a sip and then be on their way. Not only are you providing a safe haven for them, but you are nourishing your own soul too by observing all of the critters in your yard and seeing them thrive.

3. Water features boost property values and add curb appeal. If you ever plan on selling your home, know that having water features are often a good selling point to potential homebuyers. Depending on the type of water feature you decide to add to your home, it can add value to your property. Water features are also attractive, appealing and inviting, making it a good investment if you’re looking to up your curb appeal.

4. Reduced noise pollution and improved air quality. If you live in a busy suburb or close to the city, you may experience the frequent hum of car engines, growls from motorcycles, or the screams from sirens on a regular basis. When you add a water feature, especially a waterfall or some other flowing feature, it helps cut down on the noise you may hear from the main roads and city. Water features also release a regular flow of negative ions which have been found to improve air quality and reduce physiological stress-responses in rats.

5. Water features reduce the ambient temperature by 20-25 degrees in some areas. As climate change remains on the docket for our leadership in the country and throughout the world, it’s important now more than ever to invest back into our planet and reduce the effects of climate change wherever we are reasonably able to. Adding a water feature may be able to help. If you’ve ever walked by a river, mountain stream, or even a lake, you will notice that the air temperature may change and vary slightly the closer you get to the source of water. In most cases, the environment close to the water is often a fair bit cooler than the surrounding air temperature. Pair that with some trees helpful for adding shade to your property, and you’ve created yourself a micro-climate around your home that may help you cut down on energy costs when it’s warmer outside.

And there you have it, 5 benefits of adding a water feature to your landscaping plan.

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