We all need a new project on our to do list, right?
The answer is absolutely!
We wouldn't want to get bored, and it might as well be a project that's going to enhance your garden space and attract birds and polli- nators. That project? Let's consider adding a water el- ement to our gardens.
Preliminary research suggests the presence of water in a natural space can benefit mental well-be - ing. The sound of running water helps reduce noise pollution and provides a re- laxing escape.
Water attracts birds and other pollinators which also contribute to positive well-being. Whether a bub bling rock, pond or waterfall, sensory interests are piqued by waterscapes in the landscape.
Maybe you don't have room in the budget or a lot of time for a big project. That's okay. Water features don't have to be large and complex, making it a great weekend project. They can be made from a simple container, water trough or large flower pot to hold wa - ter. There are a plethora of fountain and pond designs that will fit into any size garden.
Consider accessibility, interactivity and maintenance when deciding how to incorporate a therapeutic water feature into your landscape. An isolated wa ter feature can become a destination where visitors may venture to seek refuge. However, it loses efficacy if it is too inconvenient to access it. Try positioning a water feature close to path- ways that are frequented regularly so more people can enjoy the benefits, also making it easier to monitor the feature for mainte- nance concerns. It's hard to enjoy your new water- scape if it requires intense
maintenance. Don't let your calming feature become a stress-inducer.
The sound created by the movement of the water creates a calming effect.
Depending on the type of feature, it may be possible to allow play in the wa- terscape. Consider adding stepping stones up to the feature, but always consider safety and follow necessary precautions when adding a water feature to the landscape. It's good to consider who will be enjoy- ing this new feature. Per haps elderly grandparents that we don't want to fall when maneuvering around the space. Or small chil dren that have a chance of drowning or severely injuring themselves in a space not designed with their safety in mind.
Information comes from Kansas State University horticulture expert, Cyn- thia Domenghini.
Save the date for upcoming programs related to livestock and farm man- agement. March 13 will be "Livestock Watering System Options" tour and demo. Timing will be mid dle of the day with a lunch provided. Location TBD. Please contact the office for more information and to RSVP.
For more information regarding upcoming programs, Agriculture and Natural Resources, 4-H Youth Development, or K-State Research and Ex -
tension call the office at 620-583-7455, email me, Ben Sims, at benjam63@ksu.edu, or stop by the of - fice which is located inside the courthouse. Be sure to follow K-State Research and Extension- Greenwood County on Facebook for the most up-to-date information on Extension education programs and the Green- wood County 4-H program.
