I have a similar stream. It does have plenty of rocks along the edge (and in the stream), but it also has plenty of plants in and beside the stream too. The plants soften the edges. I also use logs and branches to break up the 'just rocks' appearance. Stream Link.

Thanks Chas, I followed that link to your posting but couldn't see any pictures. Can you attach them to this post?

Also, I see you are also in NC. Do you know of any local groups or people that eould be willing to help near charlotte?

You also need different sizes of rocks. Google "How to build a natural looking stream" There are some good you tube videos.

Yep I see it now thanks!

any good resources for pond people in charlotte like a local club?

Sorry; I missed your question about local help. I am nearer Raleigh and don't recall specific posters or groups near you. Perhaps looking on craigslist in the Free section might tip you off to people getting rid of water lilies. It is a good time to divide them. You might also look for Nursery Stores. Some advertise that they sell water plants.

Most plants in that stream above are just regular plants though (except for the Sweet Flag).

I agree with the above suggestions - you have too many small stones. Bigger rocks will help a lot. Also consider adding some outcroppings - large rocks that are near by but not connected to your stream will help to draw the eye outward and break up the straight line look. And plants plants plants!

Chas - your stream is beautiful! It looks like you have lots of annuals, which give you lots of color in a hurry. Perfect for ponds and streams.

Thanks Imjk; yes, the annuals help but since I'm cheap, I usually just wait for the impatiens (most of the color above) to reseed; so most color is best in summer. I move and divide impatiens to get more pop. A lot of color (and coverage) is also from that purple Potato Vine. It grows fast and gives great coverage. It also points out the value of other vines.

By the way and back to the stream layout in the OP: It appears that the original plan was for water to spill over those flat rocks. If so, then the stream sides need to be raised a little and then you add stream sealer which is just 'Great Stuff' to seal the rocks so water doesn't flow under the rocks.

I definitely plan on softscaping a lot once everything is functioning as it should.

I've got the rocks rearranged to create a more natural flow of water, added waterfall foam to the waterfall sections. Added several plants, rhododendrens, carpet roses, low lying junipers.

Plan on adding in more of the larger boulders and some pa garden steppers to add diversity to the rocks.

The stream as it is, is on top of the grade. I may redo it all and dig down a foot below grade to make it more natural. Currently it just looks to flat to me.