There are not many things in life that are more relaxing and pleasant than hearing the sounds of water splashing and rippling around rocks as it cascades downstream into a large pond. The Water Garden, one of the three primary design features of the Linnaeus Teaching Gardens, offers visitors the opportunity to not only take in these soothing sounds but also to observe the beauty of the water from several viewpoints around the garden.

The Water Garden holds over 11,000 gallons of water. There are four 7,500 gph (gallons per hour) and one 3,750 gph pump that keep the pond and streams flowing. A bog area naturally filters the water, and it and several biofalls and skimmers keep the water clean and the fish and plants happy.

A number of plants in the water garden are not only pretty to look at but functional as well. The stems of the Thalia are used as a nursery for dragon flies. The tubers of the Taro (elephant ear) are edible. The lily pads, water hyacinth, and water lettuce all provide shade and cover for the fish. Some of the more tropical plants have to be removed from the pond to be over-wintered in our greenhouse before it gets too cold. Other plants have to be thinned occasionally so that they do not cover too much of the surface area of the pond.

The Water Garden contains many koi and goldfish of all sizes, shapes, and colors. They provide hours of enjoyment as they playfully swim through the clear waters. Some of the fish stand out a little more than the others and have names. There are Carl and Freckles, who are quite handsome, and we cannot forget Marilyn who wears orange lipstick. While you are in the Water Garden you might notice our resident Great Blue Heron. He is not real, but he helps keep the other birds that might be looking for an easy meal out of the garden.

The fish are usually fed in the morning, especially now as they build food reserves for the winter. When the water temperature drops below 50 degrees, they will not be fed again until it starts warming in the spring. The pond varies in depth but is about 48” at its deepest point. This depth is needed for the fish to survive in the pond during the winter.

The sights and sounds of the Water Garden are just a few of the pleasures that await you at the Linnaeus Teaching Gardens. Marilyn, Carl, Freckles, and the rest of the gang would love to see you.