Brookside Landscape Design

Category: <span>garden ponds</span>

garden ponds

Pond vs. Pondless Waterfall: What’s the Difference?

Introduction: The Backyard Water Feature Dilemma

You’ve been dreaming about adding a water feature to your backyard—a place where you can unwind, listen to the soothing sound of flowing water, and create a peaceful retreat right outside your door. Maybe you picture koi lazily swimming through a crystal-clear pond, or maybe you just want the sound of a cascading waterfall without the maintenance of a full pond.

But now that you’re seriously considering it, you’re stuck. Should you go with a pond or a pondless waterfall? What’s the real difference? Which one is best for your space, your budget, and—most importantly—your lifestyle?

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’ve helped countless homeowners on the Kitsap Peninsula design and install water features that fit their needs.. You want something beautiful, but you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew when it comes to maintenance. The good news? You really can’t go wrong with either choice—it all depends on what you want out of your water feature. Let’s break it down.

What Is a Pond?

A pond is exactly what you are thinking it is—if rough terms a pond is a hole in the ground that holds water year round. Ponds can be small or large, natural or formal, simple or elaborate. Most backyard ponds include some combination of:

  • A pump, skimmer, and filtration system to keep the water clean and moving
  • Aquatic plants such as lilies that help with oxygenation and aesthetics
  • Fish (optional) like koi or goldfish
  • Rocks and edging to create a natural look

The best part about having a pond is that you are building and maintaining a living ecosystem. If you love the idea of watching fish swimming around through the water, frogs hopping along the rocks, and dragonflies zipping through the air, a pond might be for you.

But, there is some work involved. Ponds require regular maintenance. You’ll need to clean filters, remove debris, monitor algae growth, and possibly even winterize it if you live in a colder area.

So, if you’re willing to put in the time to care for it or use our company for regular maintenance, a pond can become the heart of your landscape—always changing, always alive.

What Is a Pondless Waterfall?

A pondless waterfall can sound a little confusing. How can you have a waterfall without a pond? Well instead of water being kept in an always visible pond, pondless waterfalls are built on either an Aquabasin or AquaBlox depending on the size of the feature. These products allows the water to remain hidden underground and is then recirculated back up to the top using a pump.

Here’s what makes a pondless waterfall different:

  • No standing water—water moves continuously, which means less algae or mosquito issues.
  • Lower maintenance—without a pond, there’s less to clean and care for.
  • Takes up less space—ideal for smaller yards or areas where a full pond doesn’t fit.
  • Safer for kids and pets—no open water means no risk of accidental falls.

Pondless waterfalls are all about the sound and movement of water without the responsibility of a full ecosystem. You will still get birds, frogs and other critters that might visit, but they just won’t  stay for the long haul. If you just want to enjoy the peaceful noise or sight of running water without the extra work, a pondless waterfall might be your best bet.

Pond vs. Pondless Waterfall: Key Differences

FeaturePondPondless Waterfall
Water StorageHolds standing water year-roundWater disappears into underground reservoir
MaintenanceRequires cleaning, algae control, and filtrationMinimal maintenance, less algae issues
Space NeededRequires more spaceCan fit in smaller areas
WildlifeSupports fish, frogs, and plantsNo permanent aquatic life, just running water
SafetyOpen water (supervision advised for kids/pets)No open water (safer option)
CostHigher upfront cost due to added filtration elements and other materialsLower cost due to simpler system
Aesthetic AppealNatural and serene, integrates with landscapeNatural and serene, integrates with landscape

How to Decide Which One Is Right for You

Now that you understand the basics, let’s talk about which option fits your home and lifestyle best.

Choose a Pond If…

✅ You want a living water feature with fish, plants, and wildlife.

✅ You don’t mind regular maintenance like cleaning filters and removing debris.

✅ You have the space for a larger water feature.

✅ You love the idea of creating a natural, serene ecosystem in your yard.

Choose a Pondless Waterfall If…

✅ You want running water without the upkeep of a pond.

✅ You have a smaller yard or don’t want to dedicate too much space to a water feature.

✅ You’re worried about safety and want something child- and pet-friendly.

✅ You want a low-maintenance, visually striking addition to your landscape.

Common Questions About Ponds and Pondless Waterfalls

Will a pond attract mosquitoes?

Yes and no. Still water attracts mosquitoes, but a properly maintained pond with a pump and fish will keep mosquito populations in check. Pondless waterfalls, on the other hand, don’t have standing water, so they are less likely to attract bugs and mosquitoes.

Can I switch from a pond to a pondless waterfall later?

Yes, but it’s not as simple as flipping a switch. Converting a pond into a pondless waterfall would involve some excavation to thee underground reservoir and some reworking of the plumbing. If you think you might want to switch later, it’s better to start with a pondless waterfall first.

Do pondless waterfalls need a filter?

No. Since there’s no standing water, you don’t need a filtration system like you do with a pond. However, you do need a pump to keep the water circulating properly. If you wanted to add filtration, there are things that can be added to pondless waterfalls like Biofalls and Spillway bowls that allow for             the addition of biological filtration.

Which one costs more?

A pond generally costs more than a pondless waterfall because of the added filtration, excavation, and potential for fish and plant life. If you’re looking for a lower-cost water feature, a pondless waterfall is usually the way to go.

Final Thoughts: Which One Will You Choose?

Both ponds and pondless waterfalls bring the beauty and movement of water into your backyard, but they serve different purposes.

If you’re looking for a vibrant, living feature with fish and plants, a pond is the way to go. But if you prefer a low-maintenance, visually striking waterfall without the responsibility of a full pond, a pondless waterfall is a fantastic option.

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we specialize in helping Kitsap Peninsula homeowners create custom, lasting water features that match their lifestyle. Still not sure which one is right for you? We’re happy to talk through your options and help design a feature that fits your space, budget, and vision.

Ready to bring the sound of water to your backyard? Contact us today to get started!

Garden Ponds

The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Garden Pond Clean and Healthy

A garden pond in Bremerton, Hansville, Kingston, WA, and neighboring communities is more than a water feature; it’s a living ecosystem that can turn your outdoor space into a peaceful retreat. Whether you want a reflective pond to enhance the beauty of your garden or a vibrant habitat teeming with aquatic life, keeping it clean and healthy is crucial to retaining its allure and functionality. 

This comprehensive guide will explore the steps needed to keep your pond clean and healthy year-round, ensuring it remains a striking centerpiece in your landscape. By following these tips, you’ll not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also create a thriving environment for plants, fish, and other aquatic life. 

 

How a Well-Maintained Pond Enhances the Beauty of Your Garden? 

According to the leading garden pond experts in Silverdale, WA, a well-kept pond gives unmatched elegance and serenity to your garden. Clearwater, bright aquatic plants, and healthy fish create a sense of peace and natural beauty. Here are some ways a clean and healthy pond elevates your garden.   

  • Visual Appeal:  

Top garden pond specialists in Bainbridge Island, WA, reveal that a pristine pond serves as a focal point, reflecting the surrounding greenery and enhancing the overall aesthetics of your garden. 

  • Healthy Ecosystem:  

A healthy pond supports a balanced ecosystem where plants, fish, and microorganisms coexist, enriching biodiversity. 

  • Increased Property Value:  

A well-designed and maintained garden pond in Bremertonor Hansville and neighboring communities can increase your property’s curb appeal and value. 

  • Stress Relief:  

The soothing sound of water and the sight of vibrant aquatic life create a calming environment, offering a perfect escape from the daily grind. 

Whether your pond is in Kingston, Port Orchard, WA, or any other location, proper care ensures it remains a source of pride and joy. 

 

Key Elements of Keeping Your Garden Pond Clean and Healthy 

According to the leading garden pond specialists in Gig Harbor, WA, properly caring for your pond requires cleaning regularly, maintaining water quality, controlling algae, etc. Now, let’s learn about the main features of maintaining your pond. 

 

Pond Cleaning Routine: 

Debris, such as leaves, twigs, and algae, can collect in your pond, causing it to be cloudy and unhealthy. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent sludge buildup and maintain a balanced ecosystem. 

  • Surface Cleaning:  

Use a pond net to remove floating debris regularly. This simple step prevents organic matter from sinking and decomposing. 

  • Bottom Cleaning:  

Top garden pond experts in Bremerton, WA, recommend periodically using a pond vacuum to clear sludge and sediment from the bottom of your pond. 

  • Seasonal Maintenance:  

Drain and clean your pond once a year, ideally in the spring and fall, in preparation for seasonal changes. 

Brookside Landscape & Design would help provide maintenance and cleaning services for garden ponds in Poulsbo, WA, Port Orchard, and surrounding areas so your pond stays crystal clear all year round. 

Maintain Good Water Quality: 

Top garden pond specialists in Kingston, WA, reveal that quality is the backbone of a healthy pond. Monitoring and maintaining optimal conditions are essential to sustain aquatic life. 

  • Regular Testing:  

Test the water for pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Balanced pH levels (between 6.5 and 8.5) and minimal toxic compounds promote a thriving ecosystem. 

  • Aeration:  

Proper oxygen levels are crucial for fish and plants. Install aerators or fountains to keep the water oxygenated. 

  • Beneficial Bacteria:   

Introduce beneficial bacteria for natural organics breakdown and balance. 

  • Water Changes:  

Regularly replace a percentage of the pond water to ensure that impurities are removed and refreshed. 

Brookside Landscape & Design focuses on garden pond water quality management in Hansville, Silverdale, WA, and neighboring communities. We will ensure that your area is always free from harmful substances to help you maintain a clean and healthy environment. 

Control Algae Growth 

Leading garden pond experts in Kingston, WA, reveal that unchecked algae growth can easily transform your beautiful pond into an ugly green mess. Here are some control strategies: 

  • Shade:  

Shade 40-60% of the pond surface with aquatic plants like water lilies to minimize exposure to sunlight. 

  • UV Filters: 

According to the most credible garden pond specialists in Gig Harbor, WA, you need to install UV clarifiers to kill algae spores and prevent blooms. 

  • Natural Solutions:  

Utilize barley straw or beneficial bacteria to decrease the amount of nutrients fueling algae growth. 

  • Manual Removal:  

Regularly skim out algae on the surface of a pond to prevent further spread. 

These methods, combined with expert guidance from Brookside Landscape & Design, guarantee the least amount of algae affecting the garden ponds in your backyard in Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, and neighboring communities. 

Care for Aquatic Plants 

Aquatic plants beautify the pond environment and help keep it healthy by filtering water and providing oxygen. 

  • Plant Diversity:  

Include a variety of underwater, floating, and marginal plants to create a balanced system. 

  • Regular Pruning:  

Remove dead or decaying plant material so it does not rot in the water. 

  • Spacing:  

Don’t overcrowd plants, which depletes nutrients and reduces growth. 

Brookside Landscape & Design can provide the best types of plants for your garden ponds in Bremerton, Silverdale, and nearby WA locations to make your aquatic environment flourish. 

Keep Fish Healthy 

If your pond hosts fish, their health should be a priority. Healthy fish contribute to the pond’s ecosystem and add vibrant life. 

  • Stocking Levels:  

Do not overcrowd. Top garden pond specialists in Kingston, WA, suggest using the guideline of one inch of fish per gallon of water. 

  • Feeding:  

Feed fish sparingly. Only feed them what they can consume in a few minutes or so to avoid leftover food pollutants in the water. 

  • Disease Prevention:  

Observe fish for stress or illness in ponds and seek advice from professionals. 

  • Winter Care:  

Utilize pond heaters or de-icers to maintain oxygen levels during the winter. 

Brookside Landscape & Design offers garden ponds in Hansville, Silverdale, WA, and surrounding areas, as well as expert consultancy on fishing care in a sustainable aquatic environment. 

 

Prevent and Address Common Problems 

Leading garden pond contractors in Gig Harbor, WA, reveal that proactive measures can often prevent common problems with your pond, ensuring your water feature is healthy and looking its best. 

  • Equipment Maintenance:  

Regularly inspect pumps, filters, and aerators to be sure they’re working properly. 

  • Predator Protection: 

According to the leading garden pond experts in Poulsbo, WA, you can use netting or provide hiding spots to protect your fish from herons or raccoons, among other predators. 

  • Leak Management:  

Quickly identify and address leaks to ensure proper water levels. 

  • Seasonal Adjustments:  

Modify care to seasonal changes – such as reduced feeding in winter. 

Brookside Landscape & Design offers solutions to all these problems, making your pond maintenance hassle-free. 

 

Why Choose Brookside Landscape & Design? 

Brookside Landscape & Design is your go-to company for designing and maintaining beautiful garden ponds in the area, from Bremerton to Hansville and beyond. Here’s why they are a cut above the rest: 

  • Expertise:  

With years of experience, our team understands the unique challenges of pond design and maintenance in the Pacific Northwest. 

  • Sustainability:  

Our team of garden pond specialists in Gig Harbor and surrounding WA areas prioritizes eco-friendly practices and uses sustainable materials and methods. 

  • Customized Solutions:  

Every pond is tailored to the client’s vision, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. 

  • Comprehensive Services:  

We provide end-to-end solutions from design and installation to regular maintenance. 

Brookside Landscape & Design is committed to quality, so your garden ponds in Bainbridge Island, Port Orchard, WA, and nearby locations will remain pristine and visually stunning for years to come. 

 

Final Thoughts 

A well-maintained garden pond in Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, Silverdale, and neighboring WA communities is more than just a water feature. It’s a harmonious blend of beauty and biodiversity that elevates your outdoor space. You can enjoy a thriving and tranquil pond throughout the seasons by implementing regular cleaning, managing water quality, controlling algae, and caring for aquatic life. 

Our team at Brookside Landscape & Design is with you every step of the way. Whether you want to create a new garden pond or maintain an existing one in Hansville, Kingston, Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, and nearby WA areas, our expert team is ready to assist. Contact Brookside Landscape & Design today at (360) 434-6102 to transform your garden into a serene retreat with a stunning water feature. Let us help you bring your vision of a perfect pond to life. 

Home garden Ponds

How Garden Ponds Bring Tranquility to Your Outdoor Space?

Imagine entering your garden and being greeted by the tranquil sounds of trickling water, the soft rustle of foliage, and the sight of colorful fish gracefully swimming through clear waters. This picture-perfect setting isn’t just a fantasy; it’s the magic a Brookside Landscape and Design garden pond can create for your outdoor area. This article will delve deeply into the alluring world of garden ponds in Bainbridge Island, examining their advantages, the available different types, and how they can turn your garden into a haven of peace and unspoiled beauty.

Is a Garden Pond a Good Idea?

You might wonder whether adding a garden pond to your outdoor retreat is worthwhile before we get into the technicalities. A resounding “yes” is the answer in the affirmative. A garden pond offers the chance to harmonize nature and design, serving as more than simply a simple water element. It’s an opportunity to give your garden beauty, elegance, and tranquility.

Types of Ponds

As varied as the landscapes they beautify are garden ponds in Hansville. Let’s examine some of the most common categories in more detail:

  • Naturalistic Ponds

These ponds, which embrace the untamed beauty of nature, include a mixture of shallow and deep water, native flora, and uneven shapes. They blend perfectly with their surroundings, bringing in local wildlife and establishing a fascinating and long-lasting mini-ecosystem.

  • Formal Ponds

Formal ponds are a great option if you value simplicity and an air of refinement. An appealing focal point for your garden is created by geometric designs, painstakingly placed stones, and frequently a central fountain or statue.

  • Koi Ponds

A koi pond is a captivating choice for people who yearn for a bit of the exotic. These ponds are made to be a home for the beautiful koi fish, with water conditions that are meticulously managed so that they can thrive.

  • Container Ponds

Want more room? No issue! The beauty of water features may be added to even the tiniest places with the help of creative solutions like container ponds. You can take the tranquility of water everywhere you go by setting up one of these portable ponds on your balcony, patio, or other outdoor space.

  • Wildlife Ponds

You need a wildlife pond in your garden if you’re committed to preserving the natural world around you. The native plants prioritized in these ponds provide a habitat for nearby amphibians, insects, and birds. They foster a thriving microcosm of the natural world and aid in maintaining biodiversity.

  • Bog Ponds

A bog pond could add a distinctive and interesting variation. These ponds mimic the bog’s wet, soggy soil and luxuriant display of moisture-loving flora. Bog ponds have a unique look and present an opportunity to learn about a less well-known environment.

  • Reflecting Ponds

If your garden is a work of art, a reflecting pond can be the perfect complement. These ponds’ flawless replication of their surroundings results in a remarkable optical illusion that obfuscates the boundary between water and land. They give your outdoor space a sense of elegance and continuity.

  • Zen Garden Ponds

Those seeking a haven of peace and spiritual harmony may find it in a Zen garden pond in Poulsbo. These ponds, generally influenced by Japanese Zen philosophy, have calm water surfaces, sparse flora, and strategically placed rocks. They provide a location for reflection and meditation.

  • Fishless Ponds

Ponds do not necessarily need to have aquatic life in them. Fishless ponds emphasize aquatic plants and water features, resulting in a lush and bright landscape that survives without fish. These ponds are ideal for people who want to concentrate on plant life because they can be simpler to maintain.


What Are the Benefits of Adding Ponds to Your Garden?

  • Tranquility and Relaxation

There’s a good reason why soundtracks for meditation frequently feature the sound of rushing water. A garden pond’s soothing gurgle has a natural relaxing effect, fostering a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easier to disengage from the worries of daily life.

  • Biodiversity

Your garden is a live, breathing ecosystem in addition to being filled with plants. A pond gives this ecosystem a new depth and draws a variety of fauna, including croaking frogs, vivid dragonflies, and chirping birds. You may enjoy the splendor of nature up close.

  • Aesthetic Appeal

A garden pond in Gig Harbor is more than simply a water feature; it may improve the appearance of your landscape. A breathtaking and dynamic landscape is created by the play of light on the water’s surface, reflections of the surrounding vegetation, and the graceful movement of fish.

  • Property Value

Beyond the short-term pleasures, a well-planned garden pond in Hansville can raise the value of your home. Your home has a distinctive feature like this, making it stand out and appeal to prospective purchasers even more.

  • Educational Opportunity

A pond presents a fantastic experiential learning opportunity if you have kids or are naturally curious. Discover the intricate interconnectedness of many species, see the delicate balance of life, and learn about aquatic ecosystems.

Contact Brookside Landscape and Design for Your Garden Ponds

Dreams becoming a reality is one of our Brookside Landscape and Design specialties. The stunning garden ponds in Bremerton that our team of talented artisans and landscape architects creates reflect your preferences and vision. We recognize that your yard serves as a canvas and that a well-designed pond adds depth, character, and charm.

A thorough consultation is the first step in our process, during which we take the time to learn about your ideas, preferences, and the specifics of your outdoor space. Whether you see a modern water feature or a serene natural retreat, we translate your idea into a painstakingly planned design that blends with the surrounding environment.

Our knowledge of navigating the distinctive geography and climate of the area extends to the Bremerton, Washington, community, which we are delighted to serve. As a result, your garden pond in Gig Harbor will flourish and serve as a stunning example of how nature and design coexist and are beautiful.

Final Takeaway

Garden ponds in Port Orchard are more than just decorative water elements; they are entranceways to a tranquil, breathtaking, and fascinating world. They turn your garden into a peaceful retreat where you may relax, think, and reacquaint yourself with the cycles of nature. A well-constructed pond from Brookside Landscape and Design can fulfill your desires for a tranquil retreat, a habitat for nearby wildlife, or a beautiful focal point.

So, get in touch with us right away if you’re prepared to start your transformation adventure. Let’s collaborate to design and build a garden pond in Port Orchard that inspires you and heightens the magic of your outdoor space. Call us to start the trip to your serene retreat.

Get in touch with Brookside Landscape and Design right now to discuss the options for adding a gorgeous garden pond in Silverdale to your outdoor retreat. Allow us to work with you to create a special work of art that combines relaxation, design, and nature. To start the process of transforming your garden into a captivating haven of tranquility, give us a call. Your utopia is here!