Planning right from the start is very important with ponds.
Before you fetch a shovel it’s important to have a clear plan. How big will the pond be? Are you going to keep fish in the pond? Are there any safety issues to consider? What pond equipment do you need to buy?Â
We have an easy-to-use PondVolume calculator that will help you.
PLANNING A POND
Building a pond or water feature, however small, involves outlay of both cash and effort. If you decide part way thorough that you’ve over ambitious, it might prove to be difficult and expensive to undo what has already been done. A precise plan is the best way to start, so you can make major decisions before rushing ahead into the project.
PLANNING THE POSITION OF YOUR POND
- Don’t place your pond in an area that stays wet.
- Avoid positions close to overhanging trees because leaf litter will contaminate the water.
- Don’t dig in areas where there are power cords below ground.
- Choose a level site in an area which gets sunlight for at least half the day.
- Position the pond where it can be easily observed from the house.
- Always use a circuit breaker with any pond equipment installation.
PLANTS THAT WILL BE IN YOUR POND
- Plants are the key to healthy water. A balanced pond should contain all forms of plants; bog, oxygenators, lilies and floating plants.
- Plants play an important role in establishing a healthy, clear water environment.
- Floating plants combat green water and give shelter for fish from the heat of the day.
POND FISH -Click here for Pond Fish
- The size of your pond determines how many fish it can accommodate.
- Deeper pools help to avoid the extremes of temperature which can be detrimental to fish.
- Koi are specialized fish and need much greater water volumes and space in a pond.
- Remember that fish are living creatures. Treat them with care and they’ll repay you with years of enjoyment.
- Always buy pond fish from a reputable supplies like Live Aquaria.
- Don’t be tempted to take fish from the wild as they often carry parasites and disease which will contaminate your pond.
Sunlight
Sunlight is an essential consideration when planning your pond and you should choose a spot where the pond will get at least half a day’s sun. The energy of the sun is vital to both fish and plants. Fish become more active with the warmer water temperatures and the plants need sunlight for proper growth.
Pond Waterfalls and Pond Fountains
Waterfalls and fountains do more than look good. By creating movement on the pond surface, oxygen is added to the water. This is particularly helpful during hot weather when oxygen levels are depleted and fish become listless.
Safety First
- Excavating the hole for a large pond can be a strenuous job – enlist the help of friends or family and look after your back!
- If you have very young children you can build a safer feature like the Oriental Fountain Pond.
- Use a pond cover for exposed ponds where children play.
