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Create the perfect backyard escape
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Home has always been a place of rest and regeneration, but recently it has also become a sanctuary from the pandemic and other concerns of the world. According to Joe Garnica of Creative Water Gardens in Escalon, this is the perfect time to create a truly peaceful space in your yard or patio area with a water feature.

“Now is the time to really enjoy being around your house and take pride in where you live and your community,” said Garnica.

Creative Water Gardens is known across the state for its ponds, but the landscape retailer also has a large number of fountains and other garden supplies.

Creative Water Gardens sells a pond kit that includes a pump and filter for those do-it-yourselfers and offers full-service design, construction and landscape services. 

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Ponds can include fish and other wildlife or just be a water feature alone.

“Every yard needs a focal point, like a fountain or a pond,” he said.

“A fountain is ideal; you can put it anywhere…Open up your sliding door off of a living room and you can see the lights and hear the water. It’s very relaxing. It’s like going to the ocean and having your room right by the ocean.”

A visit to Creative Water Gardens is a destination in itself, as the large property has a number of working fountains and pond displays to let customers get a first-hand look at what they’re buying.

“People come from all around. I hear it every day that it’s a hidden gem, a destination,” said Garnica.

Garnica bought Creative Water Gardens two years ago with a vision to continue its reputation for quality ponds and fountains and to expand into a full nursery.

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“I want to make this the best place in Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties,” he said.

The recent pandemic saw the store close for a couple of months, but it’s now back open and welcoming customers both in person and via phone orders.

“We’ve been busier,” said Garnica about the pandemic. “We’re up 40 percent from last year… Funny how they wait until they stay home to clean up their yards. Don’t really think about maintaining their yards once they buy them.”

No matter what plans a homeowner has for their yard, Garnica recommends talking to a professional before planting or starting a DIY project.

“I’ve seen people buy plants and get frustrated when they die. Get educated. Go to a nursery. Professionals can steer you in the right direction. Education is important,” he said. 


IF YOU GO
Creative Water Gardens
19777 McHenry Ave., Escalon
Hours: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday,
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday
209-838-8650 • Gocwg.com