DIY garden projects

To end his series, Henry Agg explains how to make a rainwater pond filled with aquatic plants

- Henry Agg

How to make a still water feature

I would never design or create a garden without including water - it plays such a vital role. A pond, for instance, is one of the best features you can add for biodiversity, while a beautiful fountain provides tranquil sounds that make the garden a calming space. A strong water element can transform a garden, but you don't need anything elaborate.

This still water feature is one of my favourite additions to the garden. I use it for soaking trays of seedlings, hydrating bare-root plants, and quickly filling up watering cans. It's a practical and beautiful way to recycle rainwater and provides a habitat for wildlife.

•Total cost: £100-£200
•Time taken: 1 day if suitable base present; 2 days if building a base

You will need

✔Cattle trough or weathered-steel trough
✔ Tape measure
✔Guttering/downpipe connector kit
✓ Hand saw
✓ Screwdriver
✓ External screws (masonry or timber)
✓ Drill
✓ Blocks Aquatic plants FOR THE BASE MOT type 1 aggregate
✓ Paving slabs
✓ Mortar or cement
✓ Spirit level
✔ Builder's trowel

Step 1

CHOOSE YOUR WATER TROUGH

For this water feature, I’ll be using a six-foot weathered-steel trough to collect rainwater. You can buy something similar from a weathered-steel or general steel supplier. A galvanised cattle trough is an equally effective and visually appealing alternative for this project and could be picked up secondhand.