Build A Great Garden Pond
Can you imagine how fabulous it will be to sit out on your patio, enjoying your coffee and newspaper next to your new garden fish pond? The sound of water will calm you. You’ll enjoy watching birds attracted to the lovely landscaping. A little time spent planning, and a weekend or two of work, can enhance the beauty of your home and add lasting value to your property.
Site your pond for easy viewing from the back of your home. Avoid overhanging trees—the leaves they drop are a cleanup problem, and they block the sunlight aquatic plants need. Before you dig, call to have underground utilities marked. Also, check with local authorities to find out if you need a permit, or if regulations require a safety fence.
You’ll need to shop for materials for your garden water feature first. A flexible pond liner made of PVC is a good choice, and allows you to create your own garden pond design. Choose a liner made especially for ponds; other plastics can break down in sunlight, and can be toxic to fish and plants. Buy some sand to use for a base layer, to protect your pond liner from punctures. Gather rocks appropriate for your design. You’ll probably need a pump and filter adequate for the size of your pond.
Lay out the shape of your pond using a garden hose or piece of rope. Dig your pond to the desired depth, creating a variety of levels. If you plan to add fish, they’ll appreciate a section that’s from 24” to 36” deep, as well as a shallow area. Include some “shelves” for pond plants. The margin of your pond will need to be slightly elevated for proper drainage.
Remove any sharp stones or tree roots that could damage the liner, and then spread damp sand in a 1” layer. Loosely spread the liner across the pond area, using a few stones around the edge to keep it in place. Add water slowly, adjusting the liner to fit the bottom of the pond. Be careful not to overstretch the liner! It’s okay to take off your shoes and get in the water for this part of the job. When you’re done, anchor the edge of the liner with stones. Trim off any excess, but don’t overdo it—leave a good margin all the way around.
Now install your pond pump and filter. (These require a properly installed power supply with a circuit breaker.) If your design includes a fountain or waterfall, you will definitely need a pump. Also, a pump adds oxygen to the water. A filter helps with algae control, but will need frequent cleaning.
You might landscape your pond to suit the local climate—use native plants, and some attractive stones, for a natural look. If you have room, a bog garden near the pond will provide wildlife habitat. For a more formal look, echo the architectural style of your home. Paving stones can provide access for maintenance and wildlife viewing. A bench or garden lighting might suit you, too.
Let your garden pond sit for two or three days before adding any fish or plants. Use a variety of plant types, and include some scavengers—snails or tadpoles—to help control algae. After a settling-in period, your pond will look right at home.
Related posts:
- Choose the Right Pond Pumps to Keep Your Pond Healthy
- A Garden Pond Water Treatment Guide
- Beautiful Water Features For The Garden
- Types Of Garden Water Feature
- Common Problems With Above Ground Pool Pumps
Filed Under Garden | Leave a Comment
Tagged With flexible pond liner, garden water feature, pond plants, pond pump
Comments
Leave a Reply