The benefits of adding water features to a landscape design are many. A water feature enhances the appearance of a landscape, purifies air, reduces noise pollution, besides other things. This Buzzle post explains the importance of installing water features in your garden.

Water is Life!Research has proved that simply looking at water (a stream, waterfall, etc.) for some time can restore blood pressure and heart rate to normal levels. Having a water source in the vicinity helps lessen the pain experienced by patients recovering from surgeries.There are many benefits of adding water features to a landscape design. It provides a feel of a natural environment. You can recreate a stream, birdbath, or a simple pond in your backyard. Since a water source attracts different kinds of birds, small animals, and insects, kids can learn a lot simply by observing them. Don't worry too much even if your backyard is small in size. In fact, water features need very less space for installation. And you need not worry about wastage of water either. The water needed to maintain a piece of lawn is greater in comparison to a water feature which covers the same surface area.Importance of Having a Water Feature in Your GardenA water feature is a nice addition to a backyard garden. In fact, most modern-day landscape designs have them incorporated into them. Here is more on the benefits of adding water features to landscape designs.Reduces Noise PollutionThere are different kinds of water features that one can install in a garden. One of the commonly used feature is a waterfall. Installing a small-sized waterfall not only enhances its appearance, but also has other benefits to offer. Reduction in noise pollution originating from the surroundings is one of its benefits. Sound produced by flowing water off a fountain or an indoor waterfall absorbs noise to a great extent. In fact, a waterfall doesn't just cut the noise, but also spreads its own soothing sound, which has a calming effect on the mind. The noise created by road traffic, barking dogs, neighbors, etc., can be really annoying when you are looking forward to have a relaxing time in your garden. Installing a small waterfall will cut down a lot of noise. Making little adjustments like these to your home landscape should make the time spent there enjoyable.Importance of Installing a BirdbathA birdbath is a nice feature which you can include in your landscape design. Birds help in keeping the soil aerated. Insects are also attracted, which is beneficial for cross-pollination. A water feature can change the whole appearance and feel of a landscape. Water attracts different kinds of insects, birds, and animals. Therefore, you'll notice that by installing a birdbath in your landscape, you not only change its appearance, but also create a pleasant atmosphere around. Besides, a birdbath is beneficial for the birds, especially in the summer season when it is hard for them to find a water source.Flowing Water Soothes the MindThe time spent in the vicinity of a stream or any water source has a soothing effect on the mind. The reason behind this is, flowing water emits negative ions. Research has proved that negative ions play an important role in reducing stress. The sound of flowing water has a calming effect on our mind, which brings about overall improvement in our health. Therefore, it is good to have a mini-stream or a small pond in your garden. Installing a water feature in your garden acts as a natural humidifier. Humid air is known to assist breathing. In the absence of humid air, the lungs have to work harder in the breathing process.Quality Time With FamilyWater possesses the power to hold our attention for long periods of time. Water is a vital element of life, and it is no wonder that we find ourselves attracted to it and like to spend time around it. It is that inherent affinity towards water which makes us feel better in its presence. Installing a water feature in your backyard provides family members with a focal point to gather around. Hotels and resorts that are always looking to attract tourists, incorporate water features in their premises. Thus, by incorporating such an addition in the backyard, you'll be able to enjoy some quality time with your family.Conserves EnvironmentWater features help enhance the appearance of a landscape garden. However, they also offer a lot of other benefits. Today, it has become necessary to look into the problems of climate change. You can do your bit for environmental conservation by installing water features in your garden. Negative ions emitted by flowing water attract dust particles and carry out purification of the air. Thus, air quality is greatly improved by adding a water feature. The process of evaporation of water leads to formation of vapors. These vapors help filter the air, thereby reducing pollution. Not only does it help enhance the appearance of your backyard, but also improves air quality. It can reduce ambient temperature by 20 - 25° F.Raises Value of Real EstateA house with a water feature installed in the backyard would raise its resale value. A well-maintained landscape garden enhances the look of a house, which then obviously increases its value. Hiring an expert from the field of landscaping should be of great help. It would allow you to maintain your property in the best possible state, and thereby fetch a maximum price for it if the need arises to sell.Unlike the sophisticated systems used in swimming pools and other such facilities, water features are generally created from simple systems, which need lesser time and effort to install. With all these benefits, you should definitely think of installing one in your landscape design.