Garden
lovers around the world love putting fountains among
their flowers, plants, bushes and shrubs. And with the Christmas
season upon us in the U.S., many garden lovers may get their
very first fountain as a gift this year.
Fountains
make wonderful gifts year round. They're beautiful to
look at, and fit well with almost any landscape. They're also
quite serene and have a wonderful calming effect. So if you're
getting or giving an outdoor water fountain for a gift this
year, here are a few caretaking tips you'll want to have on
hand...
Many
outdoor fountains are made of concrete, and concrete
expands and contracts in cold weather. If at all possible,
you
should move your concrete fountain indoors for the winter.
If
you're not able to move it indoors, check it frequently to
see if there's water collecting in it. You should keep it
completely dry during the winter months.
If
your fountain will stay outdoors throughout the winter, you
also need to remove the pump and store it indoors. Fill, wrap,
or cover the fountain with blankets, burlap bags, tarp or
other
protective materials to help shield it from severe cold. Be
sure
you have the fountain covered entirely for maximum protection.
During
warmer months, you'll want to clean debrise - leaves and
twigs for example - from your fountain at least once each
week.
Take particular care to clear any debris from around the pump
as
well, so it doesn't clog.
Add
a small touch of bleach or special algae removing solution
to your fountain regularly, to keep the water clear and prevent
residue or algae buildup around the sides. If your fountain
is
accessible to pets and animals: do not use bleach. Instead,
be
sure to use an animal friendly cleaner such as Microbe-Lift
Fountain Clear.
Following
these simple maintenance tips will help keep your
outdoor fountains in tip top, beautiful condition for many
years
to come.
Author:
Kathy Burns-Millyard
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