How to Build a Backyard Pond
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LOCATE
To determine the location of your new pond, keep in mind the layout of your yard and the type of plants you wish to use. Place a preformed pond liner in the determined location, stand inside it and outline the shape on the ground with a shovel. If you will be using the sheet-style of pond liner, use a garden hose to outline your shape. |
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EXCAVATE
Dig a hole just a little larger and deeper than the pond. |
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BACKFILL
Bed the hole with a layer of compacted sand, place the preformed plastic pond or sheet liner in and level it. Using loose dirt or sand, fill in around it. Stop when the perimeter is half full. |
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FILL
WITH WATER Alternately fill the pond with water and backfill perimeter with dirt or loose sand a little at a time so that both the pond and the hole are completely filled and these steps are finished concurrently. If you are using chlorinated water, wait 24 to 48 hours before placing plants or fish in the pond. Place stones naturally around the perimeter to cover the edge. |
| NOW ENJOY! By installing two or more ponds adjoining each other, you can create a small water park or borders for a bridge. Washed, decorative stone may be placed on the bottom of the pond. Dirt and sediment that fall in will be less noticeable. We also carry water runs to make installing a custom waterfall easy. Aquatic lighting will enhance your pond at night. |
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Flowers Marigolds, Irises, Forget-me-nots, and mint are plants that do well in the moist soil surrounding your pond.
Fish are a nice addition to your pond. We suggest you use a bio filter with the fish. Goldfish are inexpensive and hardy. Koi are more expensive, but are a cleaner fish. For the best results, contact the pet store where you purchase the fish.
The above information is for general information only, and is not necessarily the opinion of Sutherlands. Always check your local codes before building, and obtain the required building permits.