Q&A for How to Build a Stream

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What sort of stones can I use for a stream?

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The best stone for a homemade stream is local stone but be sure to source it legally and ethically from a local garden center or other suitable provider. You can choose to use one type of stone or mix different types of stone if you prefer. A good combination that replicates nature would be to have split stone along the banks and weathered, large and intact stones in the water. Boulders can be used as feature pieces. Also, try to match stones already in your garden, to help keep the look natural.

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What is a dammed stream?

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A dammed stream refers to a series of pooled areas of stream that are linked together by cascades or waterfalls to allow the stream to keep running through each pool and into the next one. The benefit of this arrangement is that if your pump doesn't work properly, then you can be reassured that each pool can operate independently until the pump is mended. The whole effect is very pleasing to the eye but you will need a large garden or yard space to accommodate a dammed stream.

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What features can I add to my stream to make it more interesting?

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Consider plants first, along the edges of the stream, to make it seem more natural. Reeds, grasses and ferns make good choices. If you have the skills and resources, adding a little foot bridge over the stream can be a quaint and pretty touch. Kids will enjoy stepping stones across the little stream, which can be made from large smooth rocks or even pavers, depending on the depth of the stream and its appearance. Some people even add moving features like a water mill, model boats or a fountain. It's really up to your imagination and budget but ask the kids or family what they'd like added too.

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Can you suggest some good plants for a stream?

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There are many possibilities for plants to add next to or even in a stream, it just depends on what kind of stream you have and the overall effect you're looking to achieve. Some possible examples include: Trees that like water, such as willows; grasses; reeds; ferns; irises; bulrushes, water lilies; and plants that like being submerged, etc. How fast the water moves is something to take into account when choosing plants. Wherever possible, choose local plants (take a walk around local streams for ideas) and avoid anything likely to turn invasive (usually exotics).

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Question

I am getting algae on the rocks in my stream. What can I do to get rid of it and keep it away?

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Make sure the water is running fast. Algae builds up when the water is slow or not moving.

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Question

Is there a way that I can make a stream without digging it?

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Yes, I used 3" flexible drain lines for the side of the stream. I ran the water lines on the inside of the 3" line. I then used gravel and stone to fill in the stream and cover the edges.

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Question

I just moved into house with a pond/stream, but it only runs for about half hour before it stops. What do I do to get it working properly?

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Get a new pump or clean yours: algae and leaf debris can block water from being pumped back to the top.

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Question

How does the water return into the source to circulate?

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Normally a pump system similar to that used in a small pond is incorporated.

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What do I do if my stream is drying up in the summer?

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You have to have a water source due to evaporation. Either add on a regular basis with a garden hose, or you can rig a float system attached to a hose that will automatically add water when it drops below a certain level, similar to how a toilet works. You can easily find tutorials on this, and most likely kits on Amazon or eBay.

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Question

Where does the pump go when building a stream? Are solar pumps powerful enough?

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Place the pump under the well. And no, solar pumps are not powerful enough and will cause algae to grow.

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