Constructing a Pond: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lawn & Garden

Maintaining a Healthy Pond: Expert Tips

The key to a healthy pond is to not overfeed your fish. Give them only the amount they can consume immediately and avoid feeding them during winter hibernation. Regular maintenance tasks include:

• Removing leaves and debris from the surface and bottom using a net when necessary
• Cleaning the skimmer basket if you have one installed
• Replacing or cleaning filters as recommended
• Adding water to compensate for evaporation
• Changing 10 to 20 percent of the water weekly
• Monitoring and regulating the pH level of the water
• Observing any changes in the condition of your fish and plants

[source: Barber]

If your fish are struggling to breathe, they will swim to the surface and suck in air or gather under waterfalls where the oxygen concentration is higher. To address this issue, reduce the number of plant leaves covering the surface of the pond, adjust the pump’s flow rate, or introduce an aerator.

Do not worry about mosquitoes and other insects that lay their eggs in ponds because the fish will consume the larvae when they hatch.

When the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), fish go into hibernation. Stop feeding them and turn off the pump. If you live in a region where the pond is likely to freeze, drain the pipes and disconnect and store the pump and underwater lights. Bring inside any plants that cannot survive the winter. Trim dead leaves and flowers from hardy water lilies and lotuses and place their pots in the deepest water until spring arrives.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Storms and droughts can have a negative impact on your pond environment. Heavy rainfall can lower the pH of the pond and sweep the fish into the yard. Wind and runoff can push dirt, debris, and chemicals into the pond. After the storm has passed, clean the pond and adjust the pH level as soon as possible. Drought can cause water and oxygen depletion, fish crowding, and disease. To deal with this, reduce the number of fish and install electric aerators. Limit feedings and try to keep the pond cool. Check your fish daily for signs of illness and treat them promptly.

Articles on Related Topics

• The Work of Arborists
• Creating a Rock Garden
• Understanding Regional Gardening
• Clearing Poison Ivy

Additional Useful Links

• Lowe’s
• Learn2Grow

Sources of Information

• Terry Anne Barber. Setup and Care of Garden Ponds. Neptune City, NJ: T.F.H. Publications, 2007.
• Better Homes and Gardens. Water Gardens: Pools, Streams & Fountains. Des Moines, Iowa: Meredith Books, 2006.
• Gary J. Burtle. “Managing Fish Ponds During a Drought.” The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. (Accessed 12/4/2008) http://pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/SB49/SB49.htm
• Lowe’s How-To Library. “Planning and Building a Water Garden.” Lowes.com. (Accessed 11/24/2008) http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=LawnGarden/waterGarden
• Donna Moramarco. “Building a Water Garden or Fish Pond.” Learn2Grow. (Accessed 11/24/2008) http://www.learn2grow.com/projects/watergardening/inground/buildingwatergardenfishpond.aspx
• Helen Nash and Marilyn M. Cook. Water Gardening Basics. New York: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 1999.
• The Water Garden. “Steps for Constructing a New Pond.” Building Your Own Watergarden. 2003. (Accessed 11/24/2008) http://watergarden.com/pages/build_wg.html
• Charles M. Thomas and Richard M. Koogle. Ortho’s All About Building Waterfalls, Pools, and Streams. Des Moines, Iowa: Meredith Books, 2002.

FAQ

1. What is the first step in building a pond?

The first step in building a pond is to choose the right location. It should be an area with plenty of sunlight and away from trees and other plants that could drop leaves and debris into the water. You also need to consider the size and shape of the pond based on your available space and personal preferences.

2. Do I need to get any permits to build a pond?

Depending on your location and the size of the pond, you may need to get permits from your local government. It’s important to check with your city or county regulations before starting any construction.

3. What materials do I need to build a pond?

You will need a pond liner, rocks or gravel for the bottom and sides, a pump and filter system, and aquatic plants and fish. You may also want to add other features such as a waterfall or fountain.

4. How deep should my pond be?

The depth of your pond will depend on the types of plants and fish you plan to have. For a basic pond with goldfish or koi, a depth of 3 to 4 feet is recommended. If you plan to have aquatic plants, the water should be shallower, around 2 feet deep.

5. How do I maintain my pond?

Maintaining a pond involves regular cleaning of debris, checking water pH levels, and ensuring the pump and filter system are functioning properly. You may also need to add beneficial bacteria to the water to help with the breakdown of organic matter.

6. Can I use tap water to fill my pond?

Yes, you can use tap water to fill your pond. However, you should let the water sit for a few days to allow the chemicals to evaporate before adding fish or plants.

7. What kind of plants can I put in my pond?

You can choose from a variety of aquatic plants such as water lilies, lotus, and water hyacinths. These plants not only add beauty to the pond but also help to keep the water clean and clear.

8. What kind of fish can I put in my pond?

You can add fish such as goldfish or koi to your pond. These fish are hardy and can survive in a variety of water conditions. It’s important to avoid overstocking your pond to maintain a healthy environment for the fish.

9. Can I build a pond myself or should I hire a professional?

Building a pond can be a DIY project if you have some experience with construction and landscaping. However, if you’re unsure about the process or want a more elaborate design, it may be best to hire a professional pond builder.