Q: What are the cons of river rocks?

• <div><p>While they&rsquo;re popular and have a lot of pros, the cons of river rocks include the following:</p><ul><li><p>River rocks don&rsquo;t break down or provide nutrients to plants. </p></li><li><p>These stones can get hot and scorch nearby plants. </p></li><li><p>River stones may heat the surrounding soil to inhospitable temperatures. </p></li><li><p>Rocks can block rainwater from seeping into the ground if installations are too thick or tightly packed.</p></li></ul><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Should I leave water in my pond over the winter?

• <div><p>Even if you empty your pond before the winter, there&rsquo;s a good chance it will refill naturally. It&rsquo;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&rsquo;ll lessen the steps required to reopen your pond in the spring.</p></div>

Question 1

What are the cons of river rocks?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 2

Should I leave water in my pond over the winter?

Accepted Answer

•

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.

Question 3

How many years does a pond liner last?

Accepted Answer

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Lifespans vary by material and manufacturer, but pond liners last anywhere from 10 to 75 years. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pond liners have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. Other types of pond liners, including those made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), can last 40 to 50 years.

Question 4

Can you make a fountain without a pump?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, it is possible to make a fountain without a pump, though it may seem less intuitive and will require a bit more effort to use. In lieu of an electric pump, there are a few options including hand-cranked pumps or sprinkler systems that can work to provide water for a fountain.

Question 5

Are natural pools worth it?

Accepted Answer

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Whether a natural pool is worth it depends on several factors because they cost more than traditional pools. Many people opt for natural pools because they enjoy swimming in natural bodies of water such as lakes. Also, if you're environmentally conscious, a natural pool is going to be a much more attractive option than a traditional pool.

Moreover, for people with chemical sensitivities, a natural pool is a great solution since the water doesn’t contain chlorine.