How to Choose the Right Rocks for your Natural Water Garden Project

As the air begins to turn warm and the fragrant blooms start to peak, it tends to remind people how fantastic they feel when they are outside and closer to nature. Creating a natural water feature in your backyard is a wonderful project that encourages you to spend more time outdoors. Whether you select a cascading waterfall, Koi pond, elegant water garden, or a luxurious natural pool, your water project is sure to create an ambiance of relaxation. However, before you take the plunge into designing your water creation, it’s essential to understand how to choose the right rocks for your project.

Types of rocks – The Basics:

While there are many different rock variations, they are all derived from one of three main types. The categories of rocks are as follows:

Sedimentary rocks

These rocks are an accumulation of sediment that’s gathered over time. They consist of layers of materials such as shells, sand, pebbles, and so on. The materials harden to form the rock. Sedimentary rocks are softer and can break apart.

Igneous rocks

These rocks form from magma (molten rock) that escapes the earth’s core and solidifies on the surface. Igneous rocks may look different depending on how and when the molten magma cooled. If it cooled rapidly, the rock appearance is shiny and smooth. If gas bubbles are inside the magma as it’s cooling, then it will form a porous surface.

Metamorphic rocks

Metamorphic rocks are formed underneath the surface of the earth as a result of changes in pressure and heat. Heat and pressure create a rock that is layered and often with small minerals that glisten and shine. One familiar example of this type of rock is marble.

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Different rocks for different purposes

You will probably use more than one type of rock for your water project. Different rocks serve different purposes. For example, around the edge of a pond or natural pool, you may want sandstone for its varying shades of brown and its attractive look. Flagstone is also a great choice since its flat shape is handy for holding down the edge of the pond liner. They make nice pavers, too. Both sandstone and flagstone are sedimentary rocks.

Different rocks for different water projects

Certain rocks are better suited for some water projects than others are. For example, in a natural pool, you want to use large, smooth rocks to help hold the liner down beneath the water. Heavy, stone slabs help hold the liner against the wall. When building a Koi pond, though, you would want to use pea gravel in the bottom. This helps filter out the waste and debris from the fish and plants. Another important thing to remember when working with a Koi pond is you don’t want any type of rock or gravel that is too jagged and may harm the fish.

Different rocks for different aesthetic tastes

Finally, everyone has different tastes. Some people may enjoy the natural look of dry stacked rocks, while others want cemented rocks. There are many beautiful rocks from which to choose when creating your natural water project. By using various sizes, textures, and colors of rocks you will add more interest and beauty to your backyard. We recommend using rocks that pair well together and avoiding a mix and match approach to keep the artistic integrity of your project.

When it comes time to begin your natural water project, thinking it through first will help you make the best decision about how to proceed. The rocks you choose are one of the foundational components. Considering your personal taste and vision for your water feature will help you decide what types of rocks you need. The experts at Reflections Waters Gardens will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you have a beautiful and functional water feature. For more information about building a backyard water creation, connect with us.