how do you build a small garden stream

by Montana Grimes I Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago

^{How To Build A Stream In A Backyard In 7 Steps}

Design your stream
Mark the boundary
Dig the stream
Lay down liner
Add filters
Put in rocks
Install any additions

Part of a video titled How To DIY Backyard Stream and Pond - YouTube

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14:30

So one of the ways we built the Falls was to make the stream more narrow by placing four-inch CenterMoreSo one of the ways we built the Falls was to make the stream more narrow by placing four-inch Center blocks on each side covering them with the liner. Then cementing in a small piece of slate.

Full Answer

How to build a stream in a backyard?

How To Build A Stream In A Backyard In 7 Steps 1 Design your stream 2 Mark the boundary 3 Dig the stream 4 Lay down liner 5 Add filters 6 Put in rocks 7 Install any additions

How do you build a small stream in a pond?

Dig a top-pool or small well (40cm deep) at a higher ground level than your pond. Construct your foundation gradually down from the top-pool into your pond, ensure the foundation is sloped steep enough to allow the water to flow freely. [1] If you want to create a waterfall, build steps into the foundation of your stream, (30cm in height).

What is a stream in a garden?

A stream is a beautiful way to create the sound of flowing water in your backyard! Unique from waterfalls, streams create a flowing sound and visual, as opposed to the crashing of a waterfall. Streams can be built into a pond or can be added to a pond at any point; we added one here at Water Garden Gems!

How do you landscape around a stream?

Keep in mind that you want this to look natural, so you will likely landscape your stream with rocks and other materials several feet outside the flowing water’s path, making the stream area complement the surroundings.

How do you build a backyard creek?

0:1210:37How to Build a Creek Water Feature - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou've seen how simple and easy and cheap it can be to make one of these creaks. And they're veryMoreYou've seen how simple and easy and cheap it can be to make one of these creaks. And they're very simple but today we're trying to expand. Add a few more layers to it a little more detail.

How deep should a backyard stream be?

6 to 12 inchesDigging and lining the stream The stream will need to be deep enough to cover the pump and provide enough water for the waterfall. 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) deep should be sufficient.

How do you build a garden river?

How To: Build a Stream1) Planning and Design: The first step is to figure out the length of your stream. ... 2) Utilize the environment: ... 3) Frame your stream: ... 4) Lay your liner: ... 5) Place bridge stones: ... 6) Add smaller rocks: ... 7) Fine-tune your rocks: ... 8) Filtration:

How do you build a backyard stream and waterfall?

3:528:44How to Build a Waterfall and Stream Part 1 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBetween the liner and the stone. The waterfall coming down into the main part of the stream is goingMoreBetween the liner and the stone. The waterfall coming down into the main part of the stream is going to be coming through this section right in here.

How wide should a stream be?

Your stream should be twice as wide as its depth; the stream should be at its deepest in the center, becoming shallower toward the edges of the bank.

How do you build a small waterfall pond?

0:271:54How to Build a Pond with a Waterfall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBegin digging the body of the pond. For the waterfall use sturdy blocks in dirt to build theMoreBegin digging the body of the pond. For the waterfall use sturdy blocks in dirt to build the elevation. Each course should cascade effortlessly and continuously from one tier to the next.

How do I make my own stream?

To build a stream, start by digging a top-pool at the top of an incline. Then, dig a 40 centimeter deep channel from the top-pool to your pond at the bottom of the slope. Run a hose from your pond, along the streambed, to the top-pool and attach it to your pump.

How do you build a backyard stream pond?

2:5214:30How To DIY Backyard Stream and Pond - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnother way we added interest and created pools of water was by simply putting a piece of PVC pipe.MoreAnother way we added interest and created pools of water was by simply putting a piece of PVC pipe. Across the bottom of the stream. And then covering it with the liner.

How do you make a dry stream?

0:565:17How to build a dry stream bed - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipVideos to irrigate the succulent garden. So you want to lay all that down run the little emitters toMoreVideos to irrigate the succulent garden. So you want to lay all that down run the little emitters to all the plants get that all ready for the big rock dump.

How do you make a mini waterfall?

Build a pile of rocks, shells, driftwood or other odds and ends for the water to cascade down. The pile should be above the bowl so that all of the water flows down into it. Fill the reservoir with water so that the pump is covered. Plug it in and move the tube to the top of the waterfall to make water cascade down it.

How do you make a water feature stream?

0:3940:57STREAM DETAIL BUILD,START TO FINISH,COMPLETE WATER ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst i cut a square that is about 70 by 70 centimeters. And then remove. The. Turf then i dig theMoreFirst i cut a square that is about 70 by 70 centimeters. And then remove. The. Turf then i dig the square out to about 70 centimeters deep i am reusing the soil to make a small hill for our stream.

How do you make a homemade waterfall?

How to Build a Pondless® WaterfallCollect rocks and gravel.Select the location for your waterfall.Position your reservoir.Mark area with spray paint.Excavate the traced area.Make sure area is level, then lower in reservoir.Prep the pump and plumbing.Backfill soil around reservoir.More items...

How do I make a water stream for my backyard?

How can I make my stream look natural?

2:234:46This SIMPLE Creek Water Feature DIY - How to Build a natural ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that you can't see the liner. And you lay your rock out past the edge of the water and then youMoreSo that you can't see the liner. And you lay your rock out past the edge of the water and then you can bring the loose soil or if you decided to do bark.

How do you build a garden water stream?

0:599:09How to build a garden stream water feature - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd if putting plants around the edges if it helps do that because it's so much easier to make yourMoreAnd if putting plants around the edges if it helps do that because it's so much easier to make your changes. Now to water proof our stream. Water feature I'll be using pond lining.

How do you make a natural stream?

What does it mean to build a stream in your backyard?

Building a backyard stream means that you can enjoy the sound of water gently flowing over the rocks and you’ll have lots of beautiful birds, frogs and other wildlife visiting your backyard.

How to fill up a stream?

Fill the stream with water. Ordinary tap water is fine for filling up the stream. The chlorine will dissipate in a couple of days. During summer you’ll need to top up the water as it will evaporate quickly, or if you’re in a drought affected area you can let the stream run dry over summer and refill it in the cooler months.

What does it mean to light up a stream?

Lighting up the stream means that you can enjoy the stream at night time as well. An outdoor spotlight will light up the stream beautifully or you can place submersible LED lights on the bottom of the stream. So there are my tips for creating a natural looking backyard stream to mimic a babbling brook that you would see in the woods.

How deep should a waterfall be?

Digging and lining the stream. The stream will need to be deep enough to cover the pump and provide enough water for the waterfall. 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) deep should be sufficient. Important note: Children can drown in as little as 2 inches (5 centimeters) of water, so be sure to follow safety precautions like installing a child-proof fence ...

What to do if a stream is too wide?

If the stream is too wide to step across , you can add a couple of large stepping stones or install a small bridge to allow you to cross the stream easily.

What is the best way to line a stream?

Flexible pond liner is the easiest way to line a stream. It’s flexible and durable so it can withstand rocks falling into the stream.

Where to place rocks in a stream?

Place a few large rocks in the middle of the stream for birds to land on and take a drink.

How to make a stream bed in a stone canal?

Spread a layer of sand in the stone canal, sloping it toward the lower pond. Continue packing and leveling the sand to create a solid ‘stream bed.’

How to build a small river pond?

Make certain the other end drapes well into the lower pond. Use water from a garden hose to test the slope and flow of your little river as you build it.

How to cantilever a pond?

Spread a 1- to 2-in. layer of sand around the lower pond, then set a layer of flagstone so the upper surface is level with the lip of the shell (Photo 8). This allows you to cantilever the second layer of “capstones” over the lip of the pond without them weighing directly on the lip.

How to backfill a sand liner?

Backfill around the liner with a 50/50 mix of sand and soil at the same rate water is filling it. Compact the soil and sand as you place it. Fully support the ledges when the backfill reaches that level.

How to hide a pond liner?

We added smooth stones to the bottom of the stream to hide the liner and create a more natural-looking flow.

How much does a butterfly pond cost?

We settled on the 210-gallon “Butterfly” pond (about $300) from Atlantic Water Gardens for the lower pond and the 165-gallon “St. Lawrence” pond with spillway (about $190) from MacCourt.

Why do you need to spread sand on a liner?

Spread a layer of coarse sand to protect the bottom of the liner and the ledges from sharp rocks. Sand also makes the leveling process easier .

How to make a stream look natural?

Once bridge stones are in place, begin to add river rock and miscellaneous larger rocks to create the natural look and character of the stream. We suggest placing the rocks as if they had fallen down the stream in a flood–meaning where the stream flows to the right, more rocks should be piled up on the outside right wall of the stream as if the water had, over time, pushed the rocks to the side, like a natural stream.

How to make a rock dam?

Choose your bridge rocks for each layer and dry-lay them in place to form your dams and drops. Make sure the rocks fit well together at each level and spend ample time in selecting your rocks. Once these rocks are in place, begin adhering them. I recommend spray foam, and we carry several colors and brands of foam. Foam holds the rock in place to the liner and creates a water seal under the bridge stone to prevent water from oozing under the rock and reducing the water flow that you see. Note: You want to see ALL of your water so we want to prevent it from leaking under and beside our bridges.

What happens if you don't compact the dirt in your stream bed?

If the dirt is not compacted, it will shift with the weight of your stream, ruining your level and potentially causing your stream to leak water. 4) Lay your liner:

What does it mean when a stream rises on the right side?

A rise on the right side calls for the stream to flow around to the left of the rise as if the stream naturally formed there, and vice versa. While you can create any topography you wish to, we suggest simply enhancing the existing topography. This ensures that the stream keeps the same general shape as its surroundings.

Why do you put a cap and river rock in a stream?

Cap and river rocks are placed in and out of the stream to merge the visual into the landscaping. Don’t hesitate to move rocks here and there; take pictures and study them, and maybe change a few things the following day. It is important that the liner is completely covered in all places both to hide the black from your feature and to protect your liner so that it lasts longer, safe from the UV rays of the sun.

What is the best material to replace concrete under a bridge?

Foam holds the rock in place to the liner and creates a water seal under the bridge stone to prevent water from oozing under the rock and reducing the water flow that you see. Note: You want to see ALL of your water so we want to prevent it from leaking under and beside our bridges. Foam is an excellent replacement for concrete.

How to make a waterfall in a stream bed?

You can make waterfalls by digging a “stair-step” into the stream bed. Once you have the location and plan you can mark out the boundary with spray paint. Then, dig down about 6-8 inches and around 2-4 feet wide in the spray-painted areas. Now you have a stream bed!

What does Matt say about pondless water feature?

Matt smiles at her. “A pondless water feature! It’ll get us wanting to go outside more so we can sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. We can even dip our feet in the cool water on those warmer days.”

Can you use additions in stream?

You can use additions to make your stream experience even better!

Can you rock out a pond?

Now you can rock out your pondless water feature! Pond rocks are great for many reasons. They look better than a black liner plus they are home to beneficial bacteria. These little things help clean your pond water and fight algae.

Can a contractor design a stream?

Another choice is to have a contractor design the stream for or with you. It’s a good idea because not every design can work for every backyard. Yards can be uneven, making designing hard. You’ll want to keep in mind that there needs to be a slope for the water to go down.

Can you fill a stream basin with gravel?

It’s best if the area is easily seen from windows, decks, or other areas of the house. The top and bottom of the stream need basins for the water to collect. You can fill the bottom basin with gravel instead of water. This makes it safer, easier to maintain, and creates a different look.

How to make a stream with boulders?

Once they arrive, haul in your boulders and stones and place them around the worksite. Outline the location of your stream with a garden hose, then paint a line around it. Use paint to mark waterfall locations and ideal spots for large decorative boulders. Step 4.

How deep should a stream bed be for a waterfall?

Move to the bottom of the stream and carve a two- to 3-1/2 ft.-wide streambed six to eight inches deep, sloping upward as you dig upstream to meet that streambed depth target at each waterfall.

How to clean a stream with a hose?

Clean the Rocks and Trim the Liner. Spray down the entire stream area with a garden hose nozzle until the water level rises above the gravel in the bottom basin. Now power up the pump and direct the pump hose away from the stream. Keep washing down the stream and rock until the water from the pump hose runs clear.

How high should a waterfall be?

For a quiet, babbling-brook type of sound, go with a waterfall height of two to four inches. To drown out street noise, use 10 inch and greater waterfall drops. More waterfalls equals more noise.

How to seal a spill stone?

Fill Gaps With Foam. Apply foam sealant to all sides and to the underneath of each spill stone to create a good seal (Photo 10). After the foam has dried for 30 minutes, take your garden hose and run water down the stream. Look for any water trails (leaks) along the spill stone edges and underneath.

What to put on upper pool stones?

Finish compacting a gravel and dirt mixture to the inside and outside of the upper pool stones.

Where should waterfalls be located?

Waterfalls should be visible from your favorite deck, patio or inside-the-home chair. Consider a location near the bedroom if you like the sound of running water at night; you can always turn it off if it's too loud or distracting. Make sure your pump location (lower basin) is close to an electrical source, and that you can reach the stream with a garden hose to add water as needed

What to do with the soil in a stream?

Cover the remaining exposed soil in the stream with small, smooth cobblestones or other small rocks, such as gravel.

How to make a stream bank?

Add large boulders along the sides of the trench to form the stream bank, spacing them in a way that looks like a natural stream. If desired, you can build small retaining walls to form the bank or simply place the boulders sporadically for a more natural appearance. The size of the large stones should be proportionate with the size of the stream -- huge, 10-foot boulders look out of place along a 1-foot wide stream. As a general guideline, the largest stones should be no bigger than the width of the stream.

How to grow moss on a stream bank?

Spray the large boulders on the stream bank with a blended mixture of moss and buttermilk, if desired, to encourage moss to cover the stones for a woodland stream effect. This procedure works best on stones that provide plenty of moisture and shade -- the ideal growing conditions for moss. Mist the stones frequently to keep them moist so the moss will grow.

How deep should a stream be?

Observe the rate of water flow through your yard so you can gauge the size needed for the stream. A 3- to 6-inch deep by 6- to 12-inch wide stream can accommodate light rainfall and runoff, while heavier rainfall and runoff can require a 2-foot deep and 4-foot wide stream or larger. Your stream should be twice as wide as its depth; the stream should be at its deepest in the center, becoming shallower toward the edges of the bank.

How big should a boulder be in a stream?

The size of the large stones should be proportionate with the size of the stream -- huge, 10-foot boulders look out of place along a 1-foot wide stream. As a general guideline, the largest stones should be no bigger than the width of the stream.

How to get sand out of a stream bed?

Pour about 1/2 inch of coarse sand over the rocks in the stream bed, then sweep the sand in the cracks between the rocks. If you prefer not to sweep the sand, you can spray the rocks with a hose or wait for rainfall to move the sand in the cracks.

Where to collect water for storm runoff?

Locate any municipal water collection sites for storm runoff, including collection ponds, storm sewers and catch basins, so you know where to direct the water from your yard. Take note of the natural water flow through your yard, usually indicated by shallow, eroded trenches, and any changes you need to make to channel the water to the water collection sites.

How Do You Build That Perfect Stream?

The real question should be: “How do you build a stream perfect for our situation?” You have to let the feature come to life for itself based on the slope, topography, space, landscaping and the native rock and flora. You have to create the stream as you envision it existing naturally, striving to see what is not there — yet. You also have to know how a stream behaves in nature and how the water creates its own flow and direction over time. The more you study natural streams, creeks and rivers, the more capable you will be to imitate this wonder in a controlled, man-made space.

What do you put on a stream to light up?

For your personal enjoyment, do not miss opportunities to make the stream feel at home with a bench, a birdhouse and statuary or pond lighting in locations throughout the stream. Puck lights do an amazing job at lighting up the streambed and couple nicely with spotlights properly hidden behind rocks and waterfalls to extend the evening hours of peace beside the meandering waters.

How much water flow does a babbling stream need?

A babbling brook, which is shallow and soothing by nature with minimal, soft sounds, will require 100 to 150 gph per inch of width at your widest key point; however, a creek or stream may require 250 to 500 gph per inch of width, especially if you have to contend with some depth where much of the water flow is hidden from view.

Why are there uneven ledges in a stream?

Uneven ledges allow the water to flow in different directions, as gravity naturally draws it downward to the next level. Careful placement of driftwood and plants in naturally occurring locations helps bring this stream to life. Also consider in your design where exactly you want to drop your water.

What is a perfect stream?

Your perfect stream is now flowing beauty and life into a previously dry world. It rises from the ground and returns naturally; between these two points, it dances around rocks, crashes down falls into cooling pools below and rises again with refreshing splashes of joy. It serves as a new oasis for flora and fauna, and above all else, it brings you a smile and a peaceful heart, calming the spirit with its beautiful sound and rejuvenating presence. It is as if it belonged there all along — and maybe it did. It just took you building it in order to bring it to life.

Where does water come from in a large oak tree?

Water is released at the base of the large oak tree as an upflowing spring, which joins the flowing stream alongside the house and then trickles and falls into a lower pool with dry-stacked flagstone. The artist in you comes to life when it’s time to place your rocks.

How high can you drop water over a ledge?

You can have beautiful falls that are 4 to 6 inches in elevation, but they are not going to give you much volume. If you drop the water 1 to 2 feet over a ledge, you will achieve much greater volume and a larger visual to enjoy. The more water that flows over the falls, the louder it will be.