Picture-Perfect Pond Garden

A backyard water feature becomes a cool oasis for these new gardeners

Written by Maureen FitzPatrick • Photographed by John Gruen

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For a New York City–based couple, their charming house in the country is a restful retreat. Located in the sweeping hills of Litchfield County, Connecticut, about two hours north of the city, the property is the perfect escape from the hectic work week.They drive up on weekends to enjoy the countryside and unwind. "The big front lawn is so green and expansive,"one of the homeowners says."I love pulling up and seeing the roses climbing on the fence out front."

But it's when they look out from the breakfast room in the rear of the house that the property reveals its focal point. A three-level, flora-filled pond with waterfall and surrounding gardens, designed by Jeannie Combs, owner of Thistle Down Garden Designs in nearby South Kent, is built into the hillside in the backyard. The pond is surrounded by colorful blooming perennials, lacy ferns, crispleafed hostas and cool evergreens. Goldfish swim among the floating water lilies and water hyacinth.

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