Modern Garden Decoration: Large Outdoor Water Fountains and their Beginnings

From the onset, outdoor fountains were soley meant to serve as functional elements. Water fountains were connected to a spring or aqueduct to supply drinkable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Until the late 19th, century most water fountains functioned using gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a supply of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Artists thought of fountains as amazing additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to supply clean water and honor the artist responsible for building it. Roman fountains often depicted images of animals or heroes made of metal or stone masks. Muslims and Moorish garden designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller models of the gardens of paradise. To demonstrate his prominence over nature, French King Louis XIV included fountains in the Garden of Versailles. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains constructed to mark the place of entry of Roman aqueducts.

The end of the nineteenth century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to provide drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to strictly decorative elements. The creation of unique water effects and the recycling of water were 2 things made possible by replacing gravity with mechanical pumps.

Embellishing city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the functions of modern-day fountains.

Caring For Garden Fountains

Most outdoor wall fountains come in easy-to-use kits that will give you everything you need to properly install it. A submersible pump, hoses and basin, or reservoir, are included in the kit. If the size is appropriate, the basin can be concealed among your garden plants. Once your wall fountain is in place, all that is required is consistent cleaning and some light maintenance.

It is necessary to replenish the water regularly so that it stays clean. Rubbish such as branches, leaves or dirt should be cleared away quickly. Extremely cold temperatures can damage your outdoor wall fountain so be sure to protect it during wintertime. If left outdoors, your pump could break as a result of icy water, so bring it inside during the winter. To sum up, your outdoor wall fountain will continue to be a great addition to your garden if you keep it well cared for and well maintained.