A backyard fish pond is perfect not only for fish, but for butterflies, frogs, birds, you, and the whole family. These ponds may be small, maybe only 3 to 4 feet in diameter. They not only provide enjoyment and a focal point for your landscaping, but also lend a natural and relaxing environment to your backyard. Place your backyard fish pond in a location where it’s most easily viewed, whether from a deck or the patio. Make it blend in with the natural surroundings. Don’t place the pond where the sun can overheat it. Nestle it in a shaded place but not under the trees. Don’t place a garden pond under the trees to avoid leaves falling into the water. This will mean less maintenance.
It’s best to slightly elevate the soil surrounding the pond so that excess water won’t leak out. Plan the drainage system of the pond to make sure that it draws the water away from your house.
Landscaping the surroundings of your backyard fish pond will provide a natural dwelling place for birds and frogs that need both water and land. Make sure that electricity is available if you plan to use lights, filters, or a water re-circulating device.
Expose the pond to sufficient sunlight since some aquatic plants grow well in full sun and others don’t.
Using Pond Liners
Pond liners are used to keep water from leaking into the soil. It’s almost always necessary for a backyard fish pond even if it they are situated in clay soil. Pond liners come in different shapes and sizes. They even include built in waterfalls or any design based on your preferences. They are durable and convenient.
Consider a polyvinyl chloride liner (PVC liner) in building larger ponds. In determining the size of the PVC, you have to know the maximum length, width, and depth of the pond. Then multiply the maximum depth by 3. Add the answer to the width and the length. Now you have enough PVC to securely hold down the pond edges.
Pond liners come in different thickness as well. The thicker the pond liner, the more resistant it is to punctures. Cement may be considered as an option for a pool liner. However, it requires more expertise to install and it will cost more than the regular plastic pond liner.
However, considering that your backyard fish pond may be quite small, other plastics may be used. It might be cheaper but many may break down easily once prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light happens. Some plastics also may prove to be toxic to fish.
Pond Installation
Time your garden pond building when the ground is not overly wet or frozen. Dig the hole to the right depth and position the pond liner securely. Then landscape the surroundings. Remove any rocks from the surrounding area. Add water, plants, and a pump. Let the pond sit for a few days before adding plants and fish. Let the plants settle for at least one week before placing the fish. Then sit back and enjoy your backyard fish pond!
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