How To Build A Backyard Stream

Do you want to transform your backyard into an edenic paradise? If so, then you may want to consider adding a natural stream. 

Streams make for beautiful additions to your outdoor space, as they give your garden a more natural and aesthetically pleasing look.

However, the best thing about backyard streams (see also ‘7 Steps For How To Build A Stream In Your Backyard‘) is that they are easy to build and can be completed in a single weekend.

So if you want to learn more about these stunning water features, then you have come to the right place. 

In this article, we will teach you how to build a backyard stream. While also outlining the materials you will need and the methods you should follow…

Step One: Find Location

Before we can teach you how to build a stream, you must first choose a location for the current. 

In most cases, streams will need to be built in a visible area that can be seen from inside the house.

Streams are also perfect for gardens with slopes, as this will help to feed the movement of the water.

Slopes can also be used to build waterfalls and other outdoor accessories. 

However, if the land is flat, then you will need to build a slope using materials such as soil, sand, and rocks. 

Step Two: Build The Stream

Once you have found the perfect location, you can start building the water feature. This means taking a shovel and outlining the shape of the stream. 

For the best results, the stream should be around 6 – 12 inches deep, as this will provide enough depth to submerge the pump and produce a sufficient flow.

However, it is important to note that children can drown in less than 2-inches of water, which means the stream will need to be surrounded at all times. 

When you have dug out the stream, you will need to cover the bed with a pond liner, as this material is durable enough to withstand sharp rocks and debris. 

Step Three: Add The Rocks 

During this step, you will need to decorate the perimeter of the stream using large stones and pebbles, which allow aquatic animals to access the water. 

You can even place large stones in the middle of the stream, which will give birds and other animals a chance to relax and refresh themselves. 

If you want to build your own waterfall, then you can use stones and stones to design the formation, which can be accomplished by stacking them together.

Sometimes streams can prove too wide to step across, which means you will also need to add stepping stones or a small bridge if you want to reach the opposite side.  

Step Four: Install The Pump 

When it comes to building a backyard stream, it’s important to install a submersible pump, as this will produce a decent current to encourage the waterfall. 

If your stream is small with a short waterfall, then you will only need a low-powered pump to ensure a sufficient flow.

However, if the stream is larger, then you will need a high-powered pump to keep your waterfall running. 

You will also need flexible tubing, which can be connected to the pump and hidden behind the rocks.

This tubing helps to create a spout for the waterfall, which will help to enhance its stunning appearance. 

Step Five: Add The Plants 

If you want the stream to blend into its surroundings, then you can add plants and flowers to produce a more natural look. 

Plants are a great addition to any outdoor stream, as they add a level of naturalism and can be used to attract butterflies, dragonflies, and bees.

Some plants have even been known to attract aquatic animals, which will add to the natural aesthetic of the stream and your outdoor space. 

When choosing plants for your garden, we recommend using a wide range of different species, as this will create different levels.

For example, you can pair flowers and shrubs with ornamental grasses and aquatic weeds. 

Step Six: Fill The Stream 

Once the plants and rocks have been installed, you can start filling the stream with water.

To do this, you can use ordinary tap water, as the chlorine will start to dissipate over the next few days. 

During the summer months, you will need to top up the water to combat evaporation.

This is especially important if you live in a warm area.

However, if you reside in a drought-prone state, then you can let the stream dry out and refill it in the winter. 

Step Seven: Add The Lights 

For the finishing touch, you can also add lights to the stream, so that it remains visible during the night. 

For the best results, we advise using an outdoor spotlight, as this will light up the stream and enhance its aesthetic.

However, it is also possible to use submersible LED lights, which can be placed on the bottom of the bed. 

Final Thoughts 

And there we have it, that is how you build a backyard stream.

We hope that you found this article useful and that you will use it the next time you feel like building your own backyard water feature. 

Backyard streams promise to add beauty and sophistication to any outdoor space, as they mimic the appearance and sounds of a babbling brook.

With the correct materials, you can transform your garden into a paradise for frogs, birds, and insects.