A pondless waterfall can transform your backyard into a serene oasis, providing the soothing sound of flowing water without the maintenance of a traditional pond. This innovative landscaping feature recirculates water through a hidden reservoir, creating a stunning visual effect while conserving space and resources. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of building your own pondless waterfall. Landscape designer Jenn Nawada demonstrates the installation in the video above, offering expert insights along the way.
Planning Your Pondless Waterfall
Before breaking ground, some thoughtful planning ensures your project complements your landscape and functions properly.
Choosing the Right Location
Select a spot in your yard that allows for a natural downward slope, mimicking the flow of a real stream. Think about visibility from key areas of your property, such as patios or windows, to maximize enjoyment of your new water feature. Steer clear of areas with significant tree roots or underground utilities.
Determining Size and Scale
Your pondless waterfall’s size should be proportionate to your yard and complement existing landscaping. A larger yard can accommodate a more expansive waterfall, while smaller spaces may benefit from a more modest design. Consider future gardening and landscaping plans to ensure the waterfall remains a central feature.
Gathering Materials and Tools
To build a pondless waterfall, you’ll need the following:
- Black expanding foam
- Landscape fabric
- Level
- PVC piping and fittings
- River rocks and boulders
- Shovel and rake
- Structural plastic boxes
- Submersible pump
- Utility knife
- Waterproof rubber membrane
Excavation and Basin Preparation for the Waterfall
The first step in creating your pondless waterfall is preparing the area where water will be collected and recirculated.
Digging the Basin
Begin by excavating a large area for the reservoir, ensuring it’s deep enough to accommodate the plastic boxes and the pump vault. The basin should be slightly larger than the planned waterfall to allow for adequate water storage. Keep any excavated soil on a tarp for backfilling purposes.
Leveling and Shaping
Square up the basin’s sides and level off the bottom. This step is crucial for proper water flow and pump function. Use a level to ensure an even surface throughout the excavated area. Create a slight slope toward the pump vault for efficient water collection.
Installing the Liner
Lay down a layer of landscape fabric to protect the rubber membrane from punctures. Next, carefully place the waterproof rubber membrane over the entire excavated area, extending it beyond the edges to create a watertight seal. Ensure there are no sharp objects beneath the liner to avoid damage.
Building the Waterfall Reservoir
The reservoir is the heart of your pondless waterfall, storing and circulating water through the system.
Placing Structural Boxes
Position the plastic structural boxes in the basin. These boxes provide support for the rocks above while creating void space for water storage. Ensure they’re level and stable. Leave enough space around the pump vault for maintenance access.
Installing the Pump Vault
Place the pump vault in a designated deeper area of the basin. This component houses the submersible pump and allows for easy access for maintenance. Ensure it’s securely anchored to prevent any movement over time.
Adding River Rocks
Fill the spaces between and around the structural boxes with river rocks. This adds stability and enhances your waterfall’s natural appearance. Layer the rocks in different sizes to create a varied texture and ensure proper water flow.
Constructing the Waterfall
With the basin prepared, it’s time to create the waterfall structure.
Positioning Boulders
Arrange large boulders to form your waterfall’s framework. Start with the largest stones at the base and work your way up, creating natural-looking ledges and drops for the water to flow over. Strategically place the boulders to direct the water and prevent erosion.
Installing the Spillway
Connect the pump to the spillway using PVC piping. Position the spillway at the top of your waterfall, nestling it among the rocks to create an even water flow. Ensure the piping is securely connected and concealed within the structure.
Sealing and Shaping
Use black expanding foam to fill voids between rocks and direct water flow. This ensures water remains visible as it cascades down the waterfall rather than disappearing behind stones. Allow the foam to cure fully before testing the water flow.
Pondless Waterfall Finishing Touches
The final steps bring your pondless waterfall to life and integrate it into your landscape.
Adding Smaller Rocks
Fill in gaps with smaller river rocks to complete the natural look of your waterfall. This also helps conceal any visible liner or equipment.
Landscaping Around the Waterfall
Plant native species around your waterfall to add color and natural elements. Choose plants that thrive in moist environments and complement the rocky terrain. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Installing Lighting
Consider adding LED lights to illuminate your waterfall at night, creating a stunning focal point in your evening landscape. Get waterproof fixtures designed for outdoor use, and position them to highlight key features of the waterfall.
Pondless Waterfall Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures your pondless waterfall remains a beautiful and functional feature in your yard.
Regular Cleaning
Remove debris from the waterfall and basin regularly to prevent clogging and maintain water quality. Use a skimmer net or similar tool to capture leaves and other floating materials.
Water Level Monitoring
Check the water level in the reservoir periodically, especially during hot or dry periods, and top off as needed. Use a water level sensor for more precise monitoring.
Winterization
In colder climates, take steps to protect your waterfall from freezing temperatures, such as draining the system or using a deicer. Store the pump indoors to prevent damage from ice.
Tips for Enhancing Your Pondless Waterfall
Once your pondless waterfall is up and running, you can add these enhancements for an even more beautiful and functional feature.
Adding Fish and Aquatic Plants
Even though there is no pond, small aquatic plants and fish can still thrive. Choose hardy species suited for moving water and ensure proper oxygenation.
Incorporating Additional Features
Enhance the visual appeal of your waterfall with additional elements such as bridges, stepping stones, or small sculptures.
Pump Maintenance
Regularly inspecting and maintaining your submersible pump is crucial for efficient operation of your waterfall. Clean the pump intake regularly and check for any signs of wear or damage.
