Container water features are ideal for courtyard or patio gardens. Stone troughs, old sinks or baths and large, glazed or plastic pots are suitable once drainage holes have been plugged. A minimum water depth of 20-30cm (8in-1ft) allows a few plants to be added. Wooden barrels should be thoroughly rinsed out and made watertight before planting up. Fill with water and keep topping up until the swelling of the wood seals any leaks
Where small children are at risk, a bubble fountain or birdbath with only a thin film of water is a safer option that will still attract birds
In larger gardens, a range of features can be considered to increase the diversity of wildlife. Formal rills are rather sterile for most aquatic wildlife, but a cascading stream with dedicated planting pockets and drop pools will be much richer in biodiversity
Bog gardens can be stand alone features, making good use of a wet site, or can be positioned next to ponds and independently lined