Want more splash in your garden? Just add water.

For an enchanting addition that can transform your yard into a tranquil oasis, water features are growing evermore popular. If you like the idea of the serene sights and sounds only water can offer - but think it sounds a bit intimidating - think again. Today there are nearly endless options to fit any lifestyle and budget. And once you finish your set-up, water gardens are surprisingly easy to maintain. Here are a few tips to consider when planning your project. Then come on in - the water's fine!

Before you take the plunge, pick the right place.

A water feature should serve as a focal point for your outdoor space (basics on landscape design), but that doesn't mean plopping in a pond in the middle of your yard. Landscape designers recommend using a "placeholder" to choose the ideal location. Try placing an object like a chair in various places to visualize where a water feature would have the most impact.

Key information: Aquatic plants do best in full sun - at least six hours a day. Places that might be reserved for flowerbeds can be ideal spots for water gardens. But if you have a shady backyard, you're not totally out of luck. You can stock your water spot with shade-tolderant plants. Or you can forgo plants altogether and add a fountain or statue for a decorative display.

For a list of water plants and conditions where they thrive, go to Pond Plants' plant selector.

Choose the right water feature for you.

Once you know the area you have to work with, you can decide on the water feature of your dreams. (Being realistic, of course.) A couple tips on water features for your start.

Container gardens

Scarce on space? You can still enjoy water gardens without a lot of room. Container gardens can range from bowls that hold a few gallons of water to large barrels that hold tens of gallons. These are perfect for a sunny patio or deck. Just add an assortment of water flowers and plants. It's that simple.

Ponds

Ample room? Whether raised or sunken, ponds allow for plentiful plant life, plus spectacular swimmers like koi or goldfish. These manmade watering holes require digging and lining. But remember: Once done, you'll have no weeds to pull or plants to water.

Fountains

Nothing soothes like the sound of continuously cascading water. For this effect, you can add spraying or trickling fountains to a pond, or you can install a freestanding fountain. When choosing a fountain, be sure to consider the scale of your outdoor space, as well as the overall motif of your natural and decorative landscaping.

For comprehensive information and water garden how-tos, visit Water Garden.

How to keep up on appearances.

Remember that your water garden's surroundings are just as important as the garden itself. To accentuate your new feature, you may want to add stepping stones, sculptures or seating areas. Grassy edges work well with raised ponds or fountains, but be sure to keep them well trimmed and neat. Any water feature can also benefit from "buffers," like bricks, stones or pavers with grass following after. This also makes it easier to mow and edge alongside the area.

For more creative inspiration on water gardening check out HGTV Landscaping or YardSmarts.com.