Constructing Your Garden Pond - Basic Pond Building Steps
Michele Miller
So you have decided to build a garden pond? Congratulations!
With a little bit of time, effort, and money you can build a
pond that is both beautiful and functional. Below you will find
a checklist of what needs to be done to construct a garden pond
in your backyard, as well as a list of additional things that
you will want to consider when designing your pond.
The Basics
Step 1: Design/Plan your dream pond. This step in the process
is not one to be taken lightly. You need to decide the best
place to put your pond, how big you want it to be, the
shape/depth, whether you want fish or not, and many other
details. Changing your plan mid-construction will likely cost
you both time and money. Write down all of your ideas and
create a list of the things that you want your pond to have,
and what you could do without.
Step 2: Outlining your pond. You will want to use a garden
hose, or twine and stakes to outline the general shape of your
pond. Double check to make sure that it isn’t in the way of
power or water lines, and is away from overhanging trees or
other environmental hazards.
Step 3: Start Digging. This is the most labor intensive part of
the process. You can either dig the pond yourself, or hire
someone to do it for you.
Step 4: Line your pond. Depending on the type of liner that
you choose, this can be a simple or a complex procedure. If you
use a PVC liner, it is simply a matter of getting the liner in
place and smoothing out bubbles to make it conform to the shape
of your pond. Fiberglass and concrete linings (which are more
durable and long lasting) require more prep work.
Step 5: Finish up the liner. If you are using PVC lining, you
will want to leave a couple of inches around the edge of your
pond for rocks and edging. If you choose fiberglass or cement,
you will want to make sure that the application was completed
properly, and your system is flushed ready for water.
Step 6: Decorate! Small and large rocks strategically placed
around the outer rim of your pond will help conceal the liner
and make it appear more natural. You can be as creative as you
want with this process.
Step 7: Stock your pond. If you plan to put plants or fish in
your pond, this is the time to do it. You will likely want to
wait a while before introducing fish, and test the water often
to make sure that the water levels are acceptable for
supporting life.
Additional Items to Think About
If you follow the steps above you will have a simple garden
pond to enjoy for many years to come! If you plan on having any
fish or want to design a medium to large pond, you will also
want to read up on filtration systems, waterfalls, and the
various types of plant and animal life for your pond.
About The Author: Michele Miller is the author and publisher of
two Ebook Guides about Pond Building And Caring For Your Koi
Fish. You can sign up for her free ecourse and learn valuable
tips and advice about Building Your Own Backyard Pond and How
To Care For Your Fish at
http://www.easy-koi-ponds.com
See Also:
Index of Swimming Pools and Outdoor Ponds
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