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Consider the pros and cons of installing a water fountain in your backyard:

Pros

• Fountains can add beauty to your backyard.

• Creates a relaxing space to enjoy in your yard. 

• Water features can add more value to your home.

Cons

• Regular maintenance is necessary.

• Upfront and maintenance costs can escalate quickly.

• Space may not permit you to install the fountain you want.

How many fish can call your pond home depends on the volume of the pond and the fish size. Your pond's filtration system also influences the number of fish that will thrive in a pond. A general rule of thumb is to have 1 inch of fish for every square foot in a pond that's 2 feet deep. Another rule of thumb you can follow is to have one koi fish for every 200 gallons of water or two goldfish for every 200 gallons.

While they’re popular and have a lot of pros, the cons of river rocks include the following:

• River rocks don’t break down or provide nutrients to plants. 

• These stones can get hot and scorch nearby plants. 

• River stones may heat the surrounding soil to inhospitable temperatures. 

• Rocks can block rainwater from seeping into the ground if installations are too thick or tightly packed.

Most downsides occur when using river rock as mulch in gardens and flower beds. However, you can still incorporate river rocks into your landscape as long as you use them in the correct ways.

Even if you empty your pond before the winter, there’s a good chance it will refill naturally. It’s ideal in most cases, then, to leave water in your pond and winterize it instead. This method will prevent ice damage and protect wildlife. Plus, it’ll lessen the steps required to reopen your pond in the spring.