There are two water features in the garden, the first being the urn fountain that remained running through the winter. The second one is the large water bowl that sits in the center of the courtyard area. I've never known what to call this - I usually find myself calling it the "water basin". Perhaps "water bowl" is a more adequate phrase. When we bought it, it was called a "bonsai bowl" on the receipt but I don't like that description either. Nevertheless, it is a large concrete bowl with a pump in it that bubbles the water. The bowl is shallow, therefore I give it a rest during the winter.
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Last summer
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Last year, I planted Orange New Zealand Sedge (
Carex testacea) around the bowl with pots of portulaca sprinkled among them. I have the Orange Sedge in other areas of the garden as well, especially in the front garden. Those areas had already started to brighten up with that characteristic orange shimmer but the sedge around the water bowl remained a drab brown and I soon realized that it was all dead. I wonder if the damp ground around the bowl (water splashes out) could be the culprit?
I decided not to replace the orange sedge and finally decided on Bowles' Golden Sedge (Carex elata). This is a sedge that likes wet areas but a concern is if it will handle the full sun here. In many cases, plants can take the sun if there is sufficient moisture. We will see what happens.
I planted nine sedges in groups of three. After looking at the photos, I wonder if I've planted them too close together. Some adjustment might be needed tomorrow. The spots in between will probably be filled with pots of annuals again although I think a groundcover type plant with blue flowers would be nice.
Prior to covering the bowl with a tarp in December, I cleaned it and I congratulated myself for doing that as I didn't have to worry with that today. I just swept out some minor debris. I did apply another coat of masonry protectant and let is dry for a few hours.
Good evening Philipp, I'm a French gardener. First of all, thank you for accepting me on your blog. I've been following you through your beautiful photos and interesting articles for a while. I have in my garden a bowl quite identical to yours, same material, same size. Like you, I filled it with water. I guess it's a solar fountain that you installed in the middle. Are you happy about that? If so, I would like the reference of the product you bought. I wish you a very good week, in the garden or elsewhere.
ReplyDeleteNono
Thank you Nono. It is an electrical pump, not a solar one. I'm happy with it but water does escape so I wonder if a smaller pump might be more efficient. This one makes the perfect splash so aside from replenishing the water now and then, it is fine.
DeleteThans for your response.
DeleteI love the bowl, it's planted surround and even the plastic yellow ducks. I had one of the latter once and now your post has me wondering where it went.
ReplyDeleteThat is a good looking bowl no matter what you call it. I like the carex around it too. I bet it will be ok.
ReplyDeleteIt looks good with the golden sedge. I like it.
ReplyDeleteI'm really surprised the Orange New Zealand Sedge around the bowl died. I wouldn't think a little extra water could be the culprit. Either way, fingers crossed the new grass will do better. The rubber duckies are a nice touch! Love the whimsy.
ReplyDeleteWhat size is the water bowl? Diameter? Depth? I’d like to replicate that feature in my garden! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLahlah, it is 3 feet in diameter and about 5-6 inches deep at the deepest point.
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