Question
My husband is very interested in starting a water garden project in our backyard. I am really on the fence about this because I heard it is expensive to build and maintain. Can you tell me a) what this will cost on average b) where I should go to for more information c) where I should buy the supplies (if I do give him the green light on this project) and d) what the benefits are of a water garden?

Answer
Dear Kristine
Well the first question to ask yourselves is how big you want it to be. The physical size has a direct affect on how much you will need to spend and how much it will cost to run. If you have a massive pond with fish in this will need filtering. If you dont keep fish then you dont have to be quite so fussy and can let it "develop naturally". Assuming that you choose the most costly alternative for a medium- large sized installation this would cost approx ?00 to set up properly and cost ?0-15 per month to run. If you plan a smaller installation this will reduce accordingly.
Their is a calculation to carry out when you have decided which i can let you know later if you wish.

You should go to a local aquatic centre or aquatic specialist to get more info. Dont bother with the likes of B and Q as although thier prices are cheaper they dont have the specialist knowledge.
You can use B and Q or the other DIY sheds to actually buy the supplies where necessary as they will be reasoably priced due to their purchasing power. Garden Centres tend to be overpriced. The benefits are 1. Attracting all forms of wildlife into your garden, 2. The aesthetic appeal and calming effect, 3. Opportunity to grow plants you otherwise would have had difficulty growing, 4. Opprotinity to keep fish and tend thier care to name a few.

If you need any futher help or advice please feel free to contact me.

Good luck and best wishes
Phil
[email protected]