A Peaceful Streambed
Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-810 -- More Projects »
The side yard is quite possibly the most neglected portion of a property. But what if you could turn this space into a peaceful retreat? Master gardener Paul James and landscape designer Michael Glassman transform a tiresome-looking side yard into a tranquil and soothing streambed garden. This project takes as little as two days.
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Day One
To begin, prepare the area for the new streambed by clearing out all the vegetation, gravel and junk. Because you'll need electricity for the water pump, Glassman recommends a dedicated circuit (figure A). "Placement is extremely important when creating this water feature. It may seem like I'm boxed in this little corner," (figure B) says Glassman, "but I've chosen this area because it's in front of the living room window, so you get all this enjoyment from looking out."
To start the streambed, outline the shape of the stream in flour, making a wider, deeper area for the pump (figure C). Then dig out the stream. Mound the excavated dirt around the perimeter of the stream forming a lip that will help keep water in and mud out.
