Water features, such as ponds and fountains, are usually located outdoors, but a greenhouse provides the opportunity to enjoy these elements indoors. Greenhouses are typically utilized to grow plants and flowers year-round. A water feature can add a unique element to a glazed structure.
Water features in a greenhouse can come in the form of a pond, fountain, or waterfall. All three of these options fill the greenhouse with the sound of running water, creating a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere. The background noise provided by the running water also drowns out unwanted sounds, such as traffic.
Adding water features to a greenhouse develops the design aesthetic of the greenhouse and offers unique benefits. Sharing space in your greenhouse with a water feature promotes a relaxing environment for you and helps your plants to thrive. For example, if planted by a pond, banana trees will pull the water they need from the pond to produce fruit.
A water feature can add both functionality and a decorative element to the greenhouse. By adding a pond to your greenhouse, the ability to grow a wide variety of aquatic plants becomes available. Water lilies, cannas, water hyacinths, elephant ears, and more can be grown in a pond year-round. Fish can be raised in the pond as well. For example, Koi make delightful pets and help to fertilize the plants growing in and around the water.
Fountains and waterfalls provide a continuous source of running water, which purifies the air by adding moisture to it. The tiny droplets of moisture adhere to dust and other irritants, removing them from the air. The increased moisture also provides extra liquid for plants to absorb. Unlike mechanical humidifiers, fountains and waterfalls are constantly running, preventing the growth and potential spreading of mold and mildew in the air.
Running water produces negative ions, which help reduce particles such as pet dander and spores. Studies at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute have also shown that negative ions can help patients with the seasonal affective disorder (SAD) because it is believed that negative ions create a biochemical reaction in the bloodstream that increases the levels of serotonin in the body. Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, which increases alertness and mental energy.
For more information on incorporating a water feature into your greenhouse design, contact a greenhouse specialist.
