How to Build a Pond or Water Garden

Pond Construction | Pond Maintenance

Pond Construction Checklist

    It is important to remember to follow whatever instructions are included with the pond kit or pond material that you purchase.  Use the following pond building steps and tips as a guideline.  Make your pond unique and always have fun!

1. Decide whether to use a preformed pond or a pond liner.  Preformed ponds are easier but a pond liner allows you to be more creative and flexible.
2. If you are planning on using a pump and/or filter, make sure that you are within reach of an electrical outlet.
3. Koi ponds will need to be larger.
4. The pond will need to be in a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.  Most aquatic plants, and especially water lilies, need this much sun to be healthy.
5. Placing the pond close to many trees will create more work because of the extra falling leaves.
6. Position the pond so that rain does not run into the pond.  Runoff may carry chemicals and pesiticides that will disrupt your pond water and fish.
7. Add a dechlorinator if necessary.
8. Add lots of plants before you add your fish.  It is important to include Anacharis to help establish the health of your pond.  This floating plant will discourage algae.
9. A note to the wise:  I did not add any expensive bacteria starters or special pond additives and my pond did just fine.

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Pond Construction | Pond Maintenance