Instructions for Constructing a Pond

Lawn & Garden

Tools and Equipment for Pond Building

First-time DIY pond builders can use common household and garden tools to excavate and construct ponds ranging from 100 to 800 gallons (379 to 3,028 liters) [source: Barber, Better Homes and Gardens].

For preparing the pond site, you will need:

• Rope or garden hose
• Chalk or spray paint
• Square spade
• Rounded shovel
• Wheelbarrow
• Measuring tape
• Level
• A straight board long enough to span the width and length of the pond
• Rake
• Fine sand

For constructing the pond, you will need:

• Underlayment
• Pond liner
• Bricks or heavy rocks
• Pump
• Filter
• Tubing, pipes and fittings
• Skimmer (optional)
• Aerator (optional)
• Heater (optional)
• Lighting (optional)
• Water
• Material to finish pond edge

Start building your pond by determining its depth. This depends on the type of liner you have purchased, as it prevents the pond from seeping into the ground. There are two kinds of pond liners: pre-formed and flexible. Pre-formed liners are available in various shapes, sizes, and depths, but they limit your creativity. Flexible liners are large plastic or rubber sheets that can be shaped into an infinite variety of depths, sizes, and shapes. The most recommended flexible liner is EPDM, a synthetic rubber that is stable and safe for plants and fish. EPDM can also contract and expand to accommodate growing roots and earth shifts. Additionally, it is highly resistant to ultraviolet radiation and atmospheric gases that cause plastic to break down. If you choose a flexible liner, determine the total size of your pond and the amount of water it will hold to choose a pump and filter system that is powerful enough to circulate and clean the water.

To determine the size of the liner you need, measure the longest and widest parts of the pond, as well as the deepest part. Then, use this formula:

• Liner length = pond length + (2 x pond depth) + 2 feet
• Liner width = pond width + (2 x pond depth) + 2 feet
• Liner area (total size of liner) = liner length x liner width

[source: Better Homes and Gardens]

Once you have decided on the type of pond you want and its location, outline its shape. For pre-formed ponds, place them upside down on the site and trace around them with chalk or spray paint. For flexible liners, use a garden hose or rope to shape the outline.

Keep reading to learn how to dig and line your new pond.

FAQ

1. What are the benefits of building a pond?

Building a pond in your backyard can bring many benefits. Firstly, it can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space, adding a sense of tranquility and beauty. Secondly, it can create a habitat for aquatic plants and animals, which can be a great way to promote biodiversity. Thirdly, it can also serve as a source of water for irrigation, which can be particularly useful during dry spells. Finally, having a pond can also be a great way to relax and unwind, providing a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.

2. What are the key considerations when building a pond?

There are several key considerations to keep in mind when building a pond. Firstly, you need to choose a suitable location for the pond, taking into account factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type and drainage. Secondly, you need to decide on the size and shape of the pond, which will depend on your personal preference and the available space. Thirdly, you need to consider the type of liner to use, which can be made from materials such as PVC, rubber or concrete. Finally, you need to plan the landscaping around the pond, which can include features such as rocks, plants and waterfalls.

3. How do you dig a pond?

The first step in digging a pond is to mark out the area using spray paint or string. You should then use a backhoe or other digging equipment to excavate the soil, digging to the desired depth and shape. It is important to remove any large rocks or debris from the soil as you go. Once the excavation is complete, you can line the pond with a suitable liner, such as PVC or rubber. You should then add water to the pond and allow it to settle for a few days before adding any plants or animals.

4. How do you maintain a pond?

Maintaining a pond involves several key tasks. Firstly, you need to monitor the water quality regularly, testing for factors such as pH, ammonia and nitrate levels. Secondly, you need to remove any debris or dead plants from the pond, as this can cause a buildup of organic matter that can lead to algae growth. Thirdly, you should add beneficial bacteria to the pond regularly, which can help to break down organic matter and improve water quality. Finally, you should also consider adding aeration to the pond, which can help to oxygenate the water and prevent stagnation.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when building a pond?

One common mistake to avoid when building a pond is choosing the wrong location. It is important to choose a spot that receives adequate sunlight, has good drainage and is free from overhanging trees or other obstructions. Another mistake to avoid is underestimating the size of the pond, as a pond that is too small can be difficult to maintain and may not provide enough space for aquatic life. Additionally, it is important to choose the right kind of liner for the pond, as some materials may be more prone to leaks or damage than others. Finally, it is important to plan the landscaping around the pond carefully, as an unbalanced or poorly designed landscape can detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of the pond.