Experienced Landscaping Services in Des Moines, IA 50321 - Just Add Water
2223 SW 23rd St, Des Moines, IA 50321
Our Story
Just Add Water was founded in 2004 by Chris Thompson, a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor whose passion for water features began with a personal project in his Ankeny backyard. After moving to Des Moines from Michigan, Chris shifted his general landscaping business exclusively to water gardens in 2006, driven by a lifelong fascination with aquatic environments. With his team, he has completed over 250 custom projects across Central Iowa, focusing on creating sustainable backyard ecosystems, pondless waterfalls, and rainwater systems. Chris's hands-on expertise and local experience ensure each project is built to thrive in the Iowa climate.
Business Offerings
- Patio, porch, or terrace construction or installation
- Walkway construction or installation
- Greenscape construction
- Irrigation construction
- Greenscape design
- Shrub transplanting
- Landscape maintenance
- Landscaping building construction
Question Answers
How can a water feature from Just Add Water help with my yard's drainage problems in Des Moines?
Many Des Moines area homes deal with pooling water and soggy lawns. We design and install rainwater harvesting systems and pondless waterfalls that are specifically engineered to capture and redirect excess stormwater. These features act as functional drainage solutions, collecting runoff from downspouts or low spots and channeling it through a decorative gravel basin, effectively managing water while adding beauty to your landscape.
Do you handle the full landscaping around a new pond or waterfall?
Yes, we provide complete landscape construction and design services tailored to water features. Our expertise includes installing retaining walls, patios, and walkways that integrate seamlessly with your pond or waterfall. We also handle all surrounding shrub planting, care, and greenscape design to create a cohesive, low-maintenance ecosystem that complements the water feature and thrives in our local environment.
What does your seasonal maintenance for a water feature include?
Our year-round maintenance is crucial for Iowa's variable climate. Spring service involves a thorough clean-out, pump start-up, and plant care. Summer includes algae control and system checks. In fall, we prepare features for winter by trimming plants and installing netting or de-icers. Winter service ensures proper aeration to protect fish. This proactive care prevents common issues and keeps your water feature healthy and clear through every season.
Do you offer landscape design and construction beyond water features?
While we specialize in water gardens, our expertise in landscape construction allows us to seamlessly integrate features like patios, walkways, and retaining walls with our ponds and waterfalls. This integrated approach ensures your entire outdoor space is cohesive, functional, and built to last. Our design services focus on creating a harmonious backyard ecosystem where hardscaping and water features work together.
What does being a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor mean for my project?
This certification represents the highest level of training and proven excellence in the water feature industry. It means our team in Des Moines adheres to strict construction standards for ecosystem balance, uses vetted equipment, and follows best practices for long-term sustainability. For you, it translates to a water feature that is easier to maintain, more natural in appearance, and built with warranties on both workmanship and components, providing peace of mind for your investment.




















