TWEAKING YOUR BACkYARD POND

Live Like Royalty

Backyard ponds are not only for the filthy rich
individuals. Nowadays, even the simplest homeowner can
make their own backyard pond as luxurious as the
wealthy estates.

Once you get your back yard pond set up, it would
provide both fun and enjoyment. It also provides a
dwelling place for the fish, wildlife, aquatic plants
and flowers. It is a relaxing hobby that not only
provides relaxation but appreciation to Mother Nature
as well.

Plan Ahead

Building your own backyard pond may not be extremely
hard to built but thorough planning should be placed
in constructing one. The hardest part in building one
is digging the pond. It all depends on what type of
soil your region has. This determines how easy or how
strenuous the digging part would be.

The size and shape of the pond depends on your
preferences. It can be a small, preformed pond or one
that needs a pond liner that can hold up to seven
thousand gallons of water.

Location

Consider the location of your pond. Where would it be
best seen? Picture yourself sitting outside. What
location grabs your eye the most? Consider these
important elements. Is the water source situated just
nearby? Is your pond’s location a flat area? Is
electrical supply available? Keep in mind that these
are just some questions you need to be answered.

Equipment

Building a pond of any size requires a complete set of
tools. Now, take hold of these important equipment. In
building and constructing a pond, one must need a
water pump, a UV filter, a pond filter, and some pond
plants among many. Other must haves are the following:
a pond liner of appropriate size, an air diffuser,
pond lightings, a skimmer, the aquatic animals, and
fish food.

Cost

Another thing to consider in pond building is the
cost. Initially, constructing and maintaining the pond
could be quite expensive, that is with no doubt. But
there are now cheaper do it yourself kits available in
the market. Once it is finished, the enjoyment it
brings is worth it.

Another plus for the backyard pond is that it turns an
oh-so-boring piece of land into a thing of beauty. It
works best if you have the proper landscape to go with
your pond. Make your pond the centerpiece of your back
yard.

However, because of too many do-it-yourself
homeowners, they usually make mistakes. Following
these guidelines may help you avoid the pitfalls of do
it yourself backyard pond disasters.

Initially, it is important to incorporate your pond to
the current landscape of your backyard. This works
best for amateur landscapers who just wanted to get
right down to work. Do not let your pond detract the
beauty of your yard. Make it fit and not out of place.

To Sum It Up

Integrate your pond’s design to your landscape. Do not
make it lavish if you have a very simple backyard.
Take time to choose the design that may flatter the
overall landscaping.

Secondly, think of the essential requirements of a
pond. Do not place your pond in complete shade since
this will hamper the amount of sunlight to your pond.
Aquatic animals and plants need ample amount of the
warmth of the sun.

Finally, size does matter. Plant the size of your
pond. Do not place too much fish on a small pond.
Experiment on a variety of aquatic plants.

Provide luster and relaxation to your yard as well as
increase your property’s value. Make your backyard
more attractive and enjoyable by adding a backyard
pond.

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HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN BACKYARD FISH POND

Backyard Centerpiece

Homes with waterfront views and accents are admired by
many. This is because being around water offers a
feeling of beauty, allure, and serenity. Putting up
your own water accent in your backyard, such as a fish
pond, will also add that visual appeal. Make your yard
alive with the soothing sounds of water in motion.
Make your fish pond the focal point of your backyard.

However, there are some considerations before
constructing one:

Climate

Consider the climate of your area. If your weather
experiences winter times, then it is best if you make
you fish pond deeper since the fish tend to hibernate
at the bottom of the pond and naturally stop eating
when the water temperature goes below 45 degrees.

If you live in a location where the pond will
completely freeze over, it is imperative that a hole
be created in the ice to help the fish remain alive.
In this case, aquatic plants should be removed and
placed indoors since they may not survive the cold
temperature.

Filter

Consider the filtration system of your pond. There is
what you call natural filtration where it is provided
by the action of the moving water. If this is the
case, considering the design of your system and the
climate of your area, then you do not need a filter
for the pond.

However, to know what is best for your pond, consult a
pond professional concerning filtration. There are
cartridge filters and biological filters available
from shops that provide pond supplies.

Now, to get your backyard pond started:

First step. Make intelligent decisions by educating
yourself.

Do not push through water gardening or pond building
without knowing the essentials about it. Know what
equipment are needed to be used. Find out if your yard
is appropriate to hold such an accent. Is the climate
compatible with your pond? Are you up for the regular
maintenance it needs? Take into consideration the
availability of supplies such as electricity,
filtration, and water. Decide what type of pond are
you willing to make, is it a small one? Or a large
one?

Second step. Decide on the location of your pond.

Locate your pond in an area where the sun will be able
to shine on it. Do not place it under the trees since
it will cause a cleaning nightmare due to the falling
leaves. Do not place your pond where runoff water
tends to overflow. These will accumulate in your pond
making it dirty and murky.

Determine the depth of your pond. The average depth of
a back yard pond is between 18" to 24" usually. Make
the outline of your pond and start digging it. Make
steps in order to provide easy access to the pond
during cleaning. These steps will also be perfect for
holding potted plants just above the water. Make sure
that the bottom is leveled as you dig.

Third step. Get hold of an appropriate sized pond
liner.

In order to get the right pond liner size, take the
width of your pond and add twice the depth of the
pond, and then add 24 more inches. Measuring the
length will be done using the similar formula. Now,
drape the liner over the pond. Arrange it and place
stones around the edges. Fourth step. Fill it up with
water.

Start filling the pond with water. Fold large creases
neatly and remove wrinkles as you fill the pond with
water to make it les noticeable.

Fifth step. Install the needed equipment.

After filling it up with water, place filters, pumps,
and lightings to the pond. Connect it to the
electrical supply. Then add your fish and plants, and
you are ready to go!

Enjoy!

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FISH POND - IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Location

Decide first what part of the backyard you want to
your fish pond to be situated before going out and
buying anything. Select an area where it is far from
the trees since many aquatic plants, like lilies, need
a sufficient amount of sunlight to grow.

Choose an area where there are no falling leaves that
can make cleaning a nightmare. Do not place your pond
on low areas since large volumes of rainwater might
run off and accumulate in the pond during rainy
seasons. Not to mention, these runoff water might
contain fertilizers, pesticides, and other harmful
materials.

Place your pond in an area where it can be best
appreciated and seen. The sense of building a pond is
for you to enjoy it. Select a location where it can be
best viewed (i.e. the sitting area or a patio in the
garden).

Types of Pond

After choosing where you want your pond to be located,
it is now time to select what type of pond you want.
The two types of pond are the following:

ABS plastic preformed ponds are usually used for small
ponds that can contain up to 250 gallons of water.
This type of pond comes in a variety of sizes and
shapes such as hourglass, rock gardens, and kidney.
Waterfalls and formed spillways are also available.

Pond lines or liners are used for any size of pond.
The sizes available for this kind of pond is 10’ x 15’
to 20’ x 25’ or larger. This can allow you to build a
pond to your preferred size either by using them
individually or by connecting together two or more pod
liners with a special adhesive.

These pond liners are very heavy especially the large
ones. They are usually made of rubber. Using pond
liners can be quite a fun and creative experience
since this type may allow you to decide on the shape
of your pond. However, you need to be aware that a 19’
x 26’ liner will not create a pond of the same size.
In choosing the proper size liner, it is imperative to
know the width (W), length (L), as well as the maximum
depth (MD) at their widest points. After which, use
the formula L+(MD*2) by W+(MD*2).

This means that a 10 foot long by 5 foot wide by 2
foot deep pond may require a 14’ x 9’ pond liner so as
to make an edge above the water level. It is important
to let a professional pond developer help in
determining the pond size liner you need.

Dig It

Now that you’ve decided on the location and the type
of your fish pond, it is time to dig it. The average
size of the pond is at least 18" deep at its deepest
point. However, 24" is better. With this depth, the
fishes may be allowed to stay in the pond during
winter time without freezing. Inclusion of planting
shelves in the design will make it easier to place
emergent lilies and plants.

Filtering

After accomplishing the above tasks, it is high time
for you to think about filtration. It may be better to
ask your pond professional about this topic. Just keep
in mind that whichever filter you choose, ensure that
it is cleaned at a regular basis so that the water
will remain clear. Utilizing a filter may also hinder
the mosquitoes from making the pond their breeding
ground.

All Set

And now, all you have to do is add your fish and you
are good to go!

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BUILDING YOUR OWN BACKYARD POND

A Landscape Masterpiece

A backyard pond is the kind of structure that can turn
your average backyard into a landscape masterpiece.
The pond is sometimes considered to be the centerpiece
of a yard. As the variety of inexpensive kits
increases in the gardening market, backyard ponds have
become popular to the public. Backyard ponds were a
luxury for only those who could afford it in the past.
However, with the current facilities available and
some effort from the home owners, building that
perfect backyard pond has become a luxury for all.

Unfortunately, in the rush of home owners to integrate
ponds into their home landscaping, several do-it
yourselfers have made mistakes. Building a pond is not
as easy as the market has made it to be. There are
several important factors to take into account before
and during the construction of the pond. The following
are some guidelines on how to build that perfect the
smart way. Remembering these key points will help in
reducing those mistakes that do-it yourselfers usually
make.

Tips and Tricks

First, let your backyard decide. The first question
that comes to mind is where to make the pond? In most
cases, home owners just find an open spot in their
yard and immediately start working. The result? Still
your own plain backyard with a pond. Home owners have
to integrate the pond into their existing landscape.
The pond will fail to compliment the overall design
and feel of the property. In situations like these,
the presence of a pond can actually diminish the
beauty of a home landscape

When considering in constructing a pond, take the time
to pick out a design and suitable spot that will
flatter the over all design of the yard. Don’t just
simply grab that shovel and dig on the first spot you
can find. Do a little research and if you still feel
that your own judgment and unique design is not
enough, ask some friends or your family members to
help you out. Remember two heads are better than one.

Second, consider the elements of your backyard. If you
are considering on breeding fishes, you may want to
rethink about placing that pond in a shaded area.
Warmth is an important element in maintaining fish
population. If the pond is placed near a tree, you may
find yourself in a position where you are constantly
cleaning leaves off the pond. The environment
surrounding your backyard will have a great impact on
the appearance and maintenance of the pond.

Lastly, size does matter. You need to make sure that
the size of the pond will meet your goals. Some may
build a small pond and place a variety of aquatic
plants and animals only to find out that the pond
cannot satisfy the necessities of the plants and
fishes. Another thing to consider carefully is the
depth of the pond. This is especially true for
landscapes in colder climates and ponds containing
fish. If the pond is built too shallow, it could
freeze completely. Proper depth should also be
considered when talking about size.

Building a backyard pond in you home can definitely
make it more attractive. It is a great way of making
out door living more colorful and enjoyable. If built
correctly, it can add a certain luster to the beauty
of a property and can raise the property’s value.
However, if done poorly, your backyard pond can be
incredibly stressful.

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BUILDING YOUR FISH POND IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

A pond may offer a number of benefits. It can be cool
and relaxing, visually appealing and it can provide
the local wildlife a watering point.

For Starters

It is imperative to know the reason why you are
building this pond before the actual construction.
Some individuals just wanted to put up these kinds of
projects without considering the comfort and safety of
the inhabitants of that pond. Evaluate first these
things before assembling your pond.

You can ask for advice from your pond professional or
read books that are concerned on pond kits and the
techniques of construction of ponds. Consult your
local pond contractors who have experience regarding
this field.

Now you can build your own fish pond following these
planning stages:

Consider the location.

Choose a site where your pond is not near existing
large trees. These vantage points will prevent root
problems as well as minimizing the problem of falling
leaves in your pond that may cause decaying and poor
water quality. Pond plants such as water lilies need
sunlight to grow. It is best to place your pond where
it can be exposed to sun but not too much as it can
over heat during mid afternoon or on hot days. A semi
shaded place with a good amount of light coming
through is sufficient enough.

Temperature extremes should be minimized on the pond.
If you intend on raising and keeping fish, it is
important to make the pond as deep and as large as
practical. However, deeper ponds may need to be fenced
to prevent accidents.

Design with purpose.

Consider electricity supply for pumps, filters, and
lights when designing your pond. It is also important
to look into the water supply and drainage.

Ponds must have an overflow area (a place located
below the rest of the pond height) to control where
the excess water should go. Overflowing may be caused
by overfilling the pond with water or from heavy rain.

Screen your overflow paths to prevent any escape of
small plants, fishes (and its eggs), and snails during
water additions and heavy rainfall. This may also
protect the local waterways from any possible escape.
This is especially important if there are non local
fish in the pond.

Complete preparation requirements.

It is essential to clean and rinse ponds before using
it since fish and other water plants are sensitive to
contaminants. "Curing" concrete ponds combined with
water changes, scrubbing, filling, and painting with
vinegar is also important.

Allow chloramines and chlorine to dissipate especially
if you used tap water to fill the pond. One can also
utilize a commercial chlorine neutralizer from pet
shops to solve this problem.

Ensure that all equipment such as fountains,
waterfalls, filters, and lights are working
satisfactorily before adding the fish and plants.

It is also better if you allow at least one week for
the plants to settle in the pond before adding the
fish. Clean up the pond regularly for dead leaves as
this will add unwanted excess nutrients to the water
and decay it as well.

Observe proper maintenance.

A said, keep the pond clean of fallen vegetation and
dead leaves. The frequency of cleaning will depend on
the amount of vegetation falling into the water and on
the tome of the year. Do the cleaning at the beginning
of spring before the temperature of the water starts
to rise.

Feed your fish and clean up the filters periodically.

Add water in the pond periodically. A normal garden
hose will do. However, no more than 10-20% should be
added at any time because of the chlorine levels in
tap water.

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BUILDING A FISH POND FOR YOUR OWN BACKYARD GARDEN

DIYs

Building the perfect pond for your backyard garden can
be a do-it yourself activity or you can hire a
professional to do it for you. It's really not that
hard but does require some research and certain
knowledge about landscaping in order to get it right.
You need to get a good book and read up on it or ask
some friends and professionals about the idea of
building a pond in your garden. For now, here is a
brief discussion on how to build that pond that you’ve
always wanted in your garden.





Situate the Pond

Basically the first step to building a pond is to find
a suitable spot to dig a hole in your garden. The size
and depth of the pond should be proportional to size
of your garden. A liner will also be needed for the
pond. You can buy and place a prefabricated fiberglass
piece or have the choice free forming your pond with
rubber roofing material or similar to it. In any case,
a liner is a must for ponds to keep the water from
draining.

If you are planning to breed fishes in the pond, you
need to consider the depth. You have to make sure that
the pond is deep enough for the fishes. In colder
climates, the pond should be deeper than the frost
line and making sure that the fishes have still enough
room to go to.

Ponds should not be placed near trees, shaded, or low
areas. Plant life, especially lilies, and fishes need
the warmth of the sun. Falling leaves can also
accumulate fast and cause a cleaning nightmare. Low
areas cause large volume of rainwater runoff to enter
the pond. Rainwater runoff may contain chemicals
coming from pesticides and fertilizers which can be
harmful to pond plants and fishes.

Filtration

Building a pond also requires the owners to put some
thought on how to filter off the waste that
accumulates in it. A good thing to remember is that
the bigger the water area the better it can handle the
waste coming from the fishes. Keep in mind that you
will need to put some kind of substrate or gravel so
that a bacteria bed can build up and help maintain the
water in good quality. You can buy good filters and
gravel in your local pet stores.

If you are building a pond to keep a school of gold
fish or other kinds of fishes, wait until you have
covered the bottom with gravel and placed a good
filtering machine. Like an aquarium or a fish tank,
you should introduce a fish to the pond one at a time.
Allow some time for the environment of the pond to
adjust with the population. If you dump all of the
fish you intend to place in the pond, they probably
would not survive the environment because the natural
filtering of the bacteria will not be able to handle
the waste of the fishes and their food.

Filters can also help to ensure that your pond doesn’t
become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes
lay their eggs on still waters, so anything that
agitates the eggs will help prevent the pond to become
a breeding ground. Filters help maintain the waters
clean but regular cleaning is still needed to maintain
the quality of the pond.

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BACKYARD POND INSTALLATION

Aesthetic Appeal

A backyard fish pond offers a aesthetic addition to
your landscapes. Installing projects such as these
will offer tranquility and relaxation to the whole
family as well. However, building, constructing, and
taking care of ponds are not as easy as you think.
Much effort, planning, and money must go into these.
It is important that you think things through before
deciding on installing your very own back yard fish
pond.

Building fish ponds are not as simple as installing it
and letting it go afterwards. It is a consistent and
constant endeavor, much like a hobby. Maintenance
should be done periodically. Following some of these
guidelines may aid you in installing a do it yourself
backyard fish pond.

First Tip: Utilize a plastic fish pond liner for your
pond.

In separating the fish pond from the surrounding soil,
it is better to use a plastic liner (PVC liners work
best). It prevents the escape of the aquatic plants,
fishes, and other pond contents from the fish pond. In
accordance to this, it also prevents the entry of
nutrients from the soil or other non pond materials.
This will make maintenance and cleaning easier since
you will only have to deal with the mess and dirt of
the pond itself and the fish that live there.

In building the pond of your preferred size, pond
liners are the option to choose. Usually, they are
utilized for large ponds that do not have pre-formed
sizes available.

However, it is imperative that you choose the right
size of the pond liner. Pond lines or liners are used
for any size of pond. The sizes available for this
kind of pond is 10’ x 15’ to 20’ x 25’ or larger. This
can allow you to build a pond to your preferred size
either by using them individually or by connecting
together two or more pond liners with an adhesive
especially made for this material.

A cement pond liner will also do, however, this option
is more expensive and may require extra labor in
constructing.

Second Tip: Avoid low lying areas.

Installing you fish pond in an area where runoff water
from your lawn flows is one big no-no. This runoff
water will only accumulate in your fish pond, causing
it to overflow and become dirty as well. This is one
of the common mistakes of do-it-yourself pond
projects. Maintaining a fish pond is difficult enough
without excess dirty water coming from your lawn.

On the contrary, installing the pond in an area a
little above the ground or in high parts of the lawn
will prove to be easier to maintain.

Third Tip: Provide sufficient sunlight.

This means that placing the pond in shady areas will
not enhance the growth of the aquatic life. On the
other hand, placing it in an area where too much sun
shines will just cause them to die. Place your pond
where there is enough sunlight to seep through. Most
aquatic plants need sunlight to grow, but some do not.
Research on what plants suit your weather best.

Fourth Tip: Water your plants.

Adding a variety of aquatic plants may decrease the
excess nutrients in the pond. They will also hamper
algae growth that makes the pond murky and dirty.

Consulting your local pond professional is also an
option. Not only will they provide advices to make
your project work, they may also make your work easier
to do.

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BACKYARD POND BUILDING

Backyard Masterpiece

Backyard ponds are once thought to be owned by only
the wealthy and filthy rich individuals. That was
then. Now, backyard ponds can be built by even the
simplest homeowners. These can liven things up and can
be a good conversation starter for guests and
visitors. It will not only provide a beautiful and
visually appealing backyard but a relaxing one as
well.

From cozy and small to rich and lush, back yard water
gardens can range from almost any design you want.
Just a little background about building a back yard
pond and the right materials is enough to create your
own private oasis.

Step one. Decide where your pond will be situated.

Look for an area in your yard where there are little
trees. Falling leaves are a big no-no to your pond
since it can make maintenance an everyday job. Place
your pond in an area reached by the warmth of the sun.
Aquatic plants need the sun to grow. However, stay
away from too much heat since this can cause some
plants such as lilies to die.

Another advice is to place your pond in a high area.
This can prevent runoff water to accumulate and
overflow your pond causing murkiness and further
maintenance.

Step two. Lay out the area of your pond.

If you want to design your pond to the size you want
it to, trace the perimeter of the pond using a
bendable material like a garden hose. If you are
satisfied by the size and shape of your pond, mark the
area using a spray paint or any marker.

Step three. Use a pond liner.

Pond liners are used to prevent water from the pond,
fishes, aquatic plants, and other pond contents to
escape the pond. In the same way, it also prevents
non-pond materials to enter and cause dirt or excess
nutrients to the pond. Pond liners range from
pre-formed liners to PVC liners. If you are willing to
spend the extra cash, using cement will also be
applicable.

Pre-formed liners are usually utilized by small ponds.
These can be bought at pond supply outlets and can be
easily installed after digging the pond. However, if
you want to create the design and size you want, PVC
liners would work best. These are usually used for
large and complex ponds. Other types of liners are
available. It is best to ask for advice from your
local pond contractor about this stuff.

Step four. Dig your pond.

Dig your pond according to the width and depth that
your prefer. Place rocks on the edges of the pond
liner and fill in spaces with gravel. Do this part
diligently and carefully. Camouflage the area with
stones, pebbles, or plants.

Step five. Assemble the equipment.

Place the filters, lighting, and water supply. Make
sure that these will all function well. Connect them
to the electrical supply and place them in locations
that will suit them best. Do not forget to make a
drainage system for the pond.

Step six. Just add water.

Now is the time to fill the pond with water. Observe
if there is any leaking. Clean out the area first and
then add clean water for your pond. Place the plants
in their rightful places in order to create a
beautiful appearance. Let the plants settle for at
least a week and then it is appropriate to add the
fishes. Add fish one at a time. Fill the pond with
just the right amount of fish. Consider the size of
the pond and your fish. Make sure they are compatible.

And now, sit back and relax. Give yourself a pat on
the back for a job well done!

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BACKYARD FISH PONDS: A HOW TO

Aesthetics

Recently, one of the most popular backyard designs is
adding a water pond or a fish pond to the yard. These
projects, however, can only be achieved in sprawling
and huge yards that has walkways and large areas.

But if you are really certain to have your own fish
pond and yet you do not have a large back yard, there
are design ideas that can be incorporated to hopefully
place your pond in it without having to take up too
much space and dominate your yard.

Let your pond serve as the focal point of your back
yard. Place it in the middle or in one corner of the
yard if you have a small space. Make it appealing to
the people walking around the house.

Location

If you wish to place it in the corner part of the
yard, raise the pond a little higher so that the fish
will seem as a surprise to the visitors. But if you
want to place it in the center, it is best if you
place the pond at ground level or a little above it.

Fish Types

Make sure that the fish you put inside are colorful
and lively to attract attention. Watching the fishes
swim around everyday can also serve to be therapeutic.
But if you want to maintain a small pond, do not place
large fishes such as the Japanese Koi. They may not
live long in this kind of environment and they are
also extremely expensive. Goldfish are compatible with
the size of your pond, however, their longevity might
not be a guaranteed in an outdoor pond.

Maintenance

Think how much you really want an outdoor pond and how
you can maintain and build it depending on your
preferences. You might find that maintaining an indoor
aquarium is difficult enough, how much more an outdoor
pond.

Consider the climate of your place. Water ponds and
fish ponds are most applicable in tropical weather
because of the advantage of the sun all year round.
Some aquatic plants need to be exposed to the sun to
grow. The plants and fishes may die if you let them
stay in the pond during winter time. it is best to
transfer them to an indoor tank if the weather is not
applicable.

A fish pond in your own backyard only tells an
individual how much energy, time, and money you are
willing to devote to the beautification of your
backyard. It does not matter how large or how small it
is, it just goes to show that you appreciate beautiful
things. You will not only impress a lot of people but
yourself as well. A back yard fish pond brings a
luxurious and relaxing feeling to the place.

In order to make your fish pond more appealing,
decorate its surroundings. Landscaping the place will
attract frogs and birds which can add to the overall
natural feeling. If you cannot afford landscaping
projects, hanging plants and flowering bushes will do.
This will produce a great ambiance to your visitors
and guests.

Having a fish pond is not a go-get-it-and-have-it
project. You have to maintain and preserve its beauty
time and again. Make sure to add water to it
periodically. It is also important that you get rid of
fallen leaves as this will cause decay and unpleasant
appearance.

Lastly, consult your local pond professionals before
building a pond yourself. Do not hesitate to ask
questions as this will benefit the inhabitants of the
pond.

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A BACKYARD FISH POND

Water gardens and backyard ponds are for butterflies,
frogs, birds, fish, you, and the whole family. These
ponds may be small, may even be no larger than 3 to 4
feet in diameter. These may be built in patio
containers and barrels. Drawing wildlife in your
backyard may be done by adding water gardens and
ponds. These will not only provide enjoyment and
interest but also a natural and relaxing environment
as well.



A fish pond in your backyard may become the focal
point of your backyard conversation. So spice it up
with this tips and techniques.

Where to Put Up a Backyard Pond

Place your fish pond in a place where you can best
view it from, whether from a deck or the patio. Make
it coincide with the natural surroundings. Do not
place the pond where the sun can overheat it. Nestle
it in a shaded place but not under the trees.

Landscaping

It is best to slightly elevate the soil surrounding
the pond so that excess water will not enter into it.
Plan the drainage system of the pond, making sure that
it draws the water away from your house.

Landscaping the surroundings around your pond will
provide a natural dwelling place for birds and frogs
that need water and land. Make sure that electricity
is available if you plan to use lights, filters, or a
water re-circulating device.

Do not place the pond under the trees to avoid fallen
leaves into the pond. This technique will also provide
less maintenance to the pond. Expose the pond to
sufficient sunlight only since some aquatic plats grow
well in full sun and others do not.

Using Pond Liners

Pond liners are used to keep water from leaking into
the soil. It is almost always necessary for ponds even
if it they are situated in clay soils. Pond liners
come in different shapes and sizes. They even include
built in waterfalls or any design based on your
preferences. They are durable and convenient.

Consider a polyvinyl chloride liner (PVC liner) in
building larger ponds. In determining the size of the
PVC, you have to know the maximum length, width, and
depth of the pond. After which, multiply the maximum
depth by 3. Add the answer to the width and the
length. Now you have enough PVC to securely hold down
the pond edges.

Pond liners come in different thickness as well. The
thicker the pond liner, the more resistant it is to
punctures. Cement may be considered an optional pool
liner. However, it requires more expertise to install
and it may cost more than the regular plastic pond
liner.

However, considering that many ponds are quite small,
other plastics may be used. It may be cheaper but many
may break down easily once prolonged exposure to
ultraviolet light happens. Some plastics also may
prove to be toxic to fish.

Pond Installation

Time your pond building when the ground is not overly
wet or frozen. Dig the hole according to the right
depth and place (and secure) the pond liner. Then
landscape the pond surroundings. Remove any rocks from
the surrounding area. Add water, plants, and a pump.
Let the pond sit for a few days before adding plants
and fish. Let the plants settle for at least one week
before placing the fish.

Then sit back and enjoy your backyard fish pond!

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