Have you ever walked into a backyard and heard the peaceful sound of running water? Maybe it was a bubbling fountain or a small pond with koi swimming lazily beneath the surface. Whatever it was, chances are it made you pause and take a deep breath.
Water features have a way of transforming an ordinary yard into something special—and in the Springfield MO area, they’re becoming more and more popular. But is a water feature right for your landscape? What are your options, and what kind of maintenance do they require?
Let’s break it all down for you.
What Counts as a Water Feature?
First of all, “Water feature” is a broad term that covers a range of elements, including:
- Fountains – freestanding, wall-mounted, or incorporated into a garden bed
- Pondless waterfalls – give you the sound and motion of water without standing water
- Backyard ponds – ranging from decorative to fully stocked with fish
- Streams or creek beds – often paired with landscaping to mimic a natural flow
- Water walls and urns – stylish options that fit modern and smaller spaces
Whether you want the drama of a waterfall or the simple elegance of a bubbling rock, there’s a water feature to match your space and style.
Why Add a Water Feature?
Here in the Springfield MO area, we’re blessed with plenty of natural beauty—but that doesn’t mean your yard can’t stand out. Water features bring several benefits:
✅ Visual impact – They instantly elevate your curb appeal and become a focal point.
✅ Sound therapy – Flowing water masks background noise and promotes relaxation.
✅ Wildlife – Birds, butterflies, and even frogs are drawn to water features.
✅ Increased property value – Professionally installed features can boost resale appeal.
✅ Personal enjoyment – It’s hard to beat sitting by your own pond after a long day.
How Much Maintenance Do Water Features Require?
This is one of the most common questions we get—and it’s a great one. The truth is, it depends on the type of water feature you choose.
- Fountains and pondless waterfalls are usually low-maintenance. A quick clean and occasional pump check is about all they need.
- Ponds do require more care, especially if you add fish. You’ll need to monitor water quality, trim aquatic plants, and clean the filters a few times a year.
- Winter care is a factor too. In Springfield MO, many water features can run year-round with a few adjustments, like de-icers or winterizing the pump system.
If “set it and forget it” is your goal, we’ll steer you toward options that fit your lifestyle.
What’s the Cost of a Water Feature?
Prices can vary depending on size, style, and materials, but here’s a rough breakdown:
- Small fountains: $1,500–$7,500+
- Pondless waterfalls: $4,000–$10,000+
- Custom ponds: $7,000–$20,000+ depending on size, rockwork, and extras
- Creek-style water features: $10,000–$30,000+ for a naturalized design (The sky’s the limit)
At Nightingale Lawn & Landscape, we work with clients to find the right water feature that fits both the landscape and the budget.
Can You Add a Water Feature to an Existing Landscape?
Absolutely! We often retrofit existing yards with water features. Water features are just the thing to take an existing landscape to the next level. Whether it’s a small corner that needs visual interest or a wide open lawn begging for a makeover, we can design something that looks like it’s always belonged.
What to Consider Before Installing
Before adding a water feature, think about:
- Location – Is it visible from your patio, kitchen window, or main hangout spot?
- Sunlight – Too much shade can cause moss buildup; too much sun can lead to algae.
- Drainage – You don’t want your feature sitting in a soggy spot.
- Kids and pets – Safety is key with deeper features.
A good landscape designer will walk you through these and more, so your investment pays off for years to come.
Ready to Add a Little Tranquility to Your Landscape?
If you’ve been dreaming of the soothing sound of water in your backyard, we’d love to help you make it happen. Whether it’s a simple fountain or a show-stopping backyard pond, our team at Nightingale Lawn & Landscape specializes in creating custom water features that feel like a natural part of your outdoor space.
Give us a shout if you’d like a quote or want to brainstorm ideas—we’ll bring the creativity and craftsmanship. You just bring your vision (or let us help you find it).
