How to build a pond?

Garden ponds need regular maintenance for a better aquatic ecosystem.

A small pond not only allows you to enjoy the tranquil water but is also an attractive addition to outdoor space. You can carve out a natural pond in the garden or backyard easily. Although, pond construction may sound difficult for a beginner. However, with proper tutorial, equipment, and material you can easily construct a small pond. In this article, we have discussed the things you need to build a pond along with the step-wise pond construction process. 

Also read: Oval leaf pondweed

Things you need to build a pond

Go through the following table to know about the major things you need to build for a natural pond construction. 

  • Pond line
  • Shovel
  • Excavation tools
  • Rocks and gravel
  • Sand
  • Water source
  • Water pump 
  • Water filter
  • Aeration system
  • Aquatic plants
  • Edging material
  • Power outlet
  • Maintenance tools
  • Landscaping materials

Read also: How to build a vegetable garden?

 

Step-by-step process of building a pond

Here is a step-by-step comprehensive guide for building a small pond. 

Step 1: Planning and Design

  • Begin by selecting a suitable location for your pond. Choose a location that receives ample sunlight, moisture, and natural minerals
  • Next, decide the size and shape of the pond based on the available space 
  • Finally, cross-check if you need any local permit before digging out the small pond in your garden or backyard

Step 2: Materials and Tools

Next, gather all the materials and tools you need to construct your small pond. You should collect all the equipment like a pond liner, excavation tools, aeration system, water pump, and filter to give it a natural touch. 

Step 3: Construction Process

  • Now, begin the pond construction by outlining the shape and size as per your plan using stakes and string
  • Excavate the pond and ensure there is ample depth to install aquatic plants and fish. Construct shelves or ledges within the pond for marginal plants and provide a deeper section for fish
  • Now, lay the pond liner carefully over the hole while ensuring that it covers the entire surface area. Use a tool to smoothen out any harsh edges and adjust the liner 
  • Finally, spread a layer of sand over the liner to protect it from sharp objects and create a stable base

Step 4: Filling and Finishing

  • Now, fill the small pond gradually with water and ensure that the liner to settle
  • Arrange decorative rocks inside the line along with fountains and other aquatic things
  • Set up the water pump and filter system to ensure that the pond has proper water circulation and filtration
  • Finally, add the aquatic plants to the areas that have been marked for them. You can also introduce fish to the pond

Step 5: Maintenance

  • Maintain your pond by testing water for its quality regularly. Clean the pond regularly along with the pump and filter system for proper operation.
  • Keep an eye on the aquatic plants and trim them occasionally to maintain the ecosystem

 

Best plants for a small pond

If you are constructing a pond, then to give it a more natural appeal you can add the following plants. 

  • Water Hyacinth 
  • Japanese Iris 
  • Horsetail 
  • Corkscrew Rush 
  • Papyrus

 

FAQs

How do you build a pond for beginners?

You can use a DIY kit or refer to online tutorials to build a pond as a beginner.

How do you build a pond step by step?

You can refer to the comprehensive guide on this page to build a pond step by step.

How deep to build a pond?

A small pond should not be more than 25 to 30 cm deep.

How to build a small pond?

A small pond can be built with the help of a proper plan and equipment.

What is the normal size of a pond?

The normal size of a pond should be roughly 150 sq ft.

What is the maximum size of a pond?

The maximum size of a pond is usually 20 acres.

Why build a pond with a liner?

One should build a pond with a liner as it helps to contain the water efficiently.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

 

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