The first section of this book takes an in-depth look at all the practical and design considerations involved in choosing and building a water feature – where to site it; different materials and styles, such as waterfalls, fountains, streams, beaches, bog gardens; constructing the feature and installing extras, such as pumps, lights and safety features; maintenance e.g. keeping the water clean.

The main part of the book is a comprehensive directory of aquatic plants, divided into six sections reflecting the full range of plants: floating, flowering, oxygenating, marginal, bog, grasses and ferns. Each entry includes a visual chart listing the best varieties and indicating when to plant, length of flowering season, spread, height and hardiness. In addition, quick-access care charts provide a hit list of care requirements and problems to look out for.

The final chapters include a special section on keeping and attracting wildlife to water features, and an extensive troubleshooting section on pond problems and how to deal with them.