The sound of moving water soothes the soul. It’s universally calming to watch the light play off ripples or listen to the splash of a fountain. Consequently, installing a pond is one of the most popular landscaping projects. Your garden can be transformed by learning how to properly build or construct a pond. In addition to creating a thriving environment for an endless range of wildlife, it can exude serenity and movement. Not only will you be creating your own personal oasis, but you will also be able to increase the biodiversity of your garden, which, in turn, will help it flourish.
How to construct your pond in 9 simple steps:
Choose a type of pond that suits your needs
First, you must determine the purpose of your pond. As you begin your building plans, consider the features you’d like most. One example is a garden pond. Lily pads and other aquatic plants are commonly found in garden ponds, which are built to match the design of a garden.
Decide where to place your pond
The best spots for ponds are those that get a mix of sun and shade, as this environment allows plants to grow and prevents algae from growing. If you can see the pond from your home, you can enjoy it regardless of the weather, so you may want to locate it that way.
Check the legalities
Dams and ponds can usually be built within a certain distance of existing creeks, streams, rivers, reservoirs, etc. Ignore them at your own risk to avoid lawsuits. Remember, it’s always best to do your research before starting a new project.
Be aware of how deep and large your pond is
Ponds can be just a few feet wide and deep if you live in a wet region, such as the eastern United States. You can expect a shallow pond to evaporate quickly if you live in a dry region, like the southwest region of the US. In order to choose an appropriate depth, you must research your local climate and choose what’s best for you.
Dig the pond
Multiple levels are often found in garden ponds so that a waterfall can be formed, and a pump can be installed. Electric devices should be installed near your home if you plan to utilize them. You will need a shovel to dig a large hole of the appropriate size and depth or potentially equipment if you decide to move forward with a large project.
Line your pond
It’s important to cover every crevice of the pond with a layer of sand followed by a layer of biodegradable material, such as newspaper or burlap. In order to get the job done right, you may want to add a large waterproof liner over this layer. This layer completely covers the pond area.
Install vital devices
Pumps should be installed in the deepest pit so that their hoses reach the surface of the pond. Filters or skimmers can also be installed. For detailed instructions on how to install the device, it’s best to contact the manufacturer.
Edging the pond
In order to edge the pond appropriately, you will want to overlap the pond liner by about 8 inches on both sides. Place heavy, flat stones on top of the liner around the edge of the pond and dig a shallow shelf under the liner. You can also use flagstones.
Fill the pond
For a pond that is turned off, fill it about three-quarters full with a hose to prevent overflow. You should test your pump and any other electronic devices you have installed to avoid any unwanted mishaps.
How big should the Pond be?
Ideally, a pond should be in proportion to its surroundings. Small ponds look lost in large gardens, while large ponds dominate small gardens. Pond depth is also an important factor. As a general rule of thumb, if you plan to have plants and fish in your pond, the depth should be at least 60cm (2ft). In warm weather, shallow water can evaporate and freeze in the winter.
Transform your backyard to a serene oasis with a brand-new pond
Backyards and gardens are transformed by the sight and sound of water which is why you may want to consider building a pond if you don’t have a natural source of water on your property. Ponds are as beautiful as they are practical: they provide habitat for wildlife in your region when properly constructed and offer an aesthetically pleasing appeal.