How to Add a Pond to Your Landscaping

There is something special about having a backyard pond, a sort of personal paradise. Whether you use your yard for entertaining or meditation, a pond only adds to the casual ambiance. Keep reading to learn about different types and how to DIY a pond in your garden. Hopefully, you will be inspired to bring your very own backyard pond ideas to life.

Why Would You Add a Pond?

Adding a pond provides many benefits to your property. The first being that it will decrease the amount of grass in your yard. This is a benefit when the maintenance necessary to upkeep a yard in Central Florida is relatively high. Whether you hire someone, or perform maintenance yourself, the cost or time required adds up quickly. A pond will also increase the appearance of your yard, and potentially your home’s value. Finally, a pond makes your yard an enjoyable place to spend time with friends and family. All in all, you have very little to lose, and a lot to gain!

Types of Landscaping Ponds

There are several types of landscaping ponds to choose from. Before selecting one, it is important that you understand the upkeep each type of pond requires. Then you can determine which type may best suit the size of your yard, as well as your personal style.

Natural Ponds - A pond formed by nature, and may or may not be home to fish and plants, is considered a natural pond. Natural ponds require little upkeep, and can be accentuated with fountains or aquatic plant life.

Plant Ponds - Instead of fish, some people prefer the color and lower maintenance of plants. Plant ponds provide a great way to add an eye-catching element to your landscape.

Koi Ponds - One of the most popular and beautiful types of ponds, koi ponds require attentive care and the establishment of a specific ecosystem. If you choose to have a koi pond, you will need special equipment to ensure that these relatively expensive fish are able to survive year ‘round.

Wildlife Ponds - If you want low-maintenance landscaping, a wildlife pond is perfect. It is meant to attract natural wildlife, and operate without any filters or pumps. The only requirement is that it be placed to receive plenty of sunlight. If you choose to add fish, you will also need plants that will provide them with oxygen.

Fish Ponds - This type of pond is a created feature. As it contains fish, it requires regular cleaning. Without a natural ecosystem, it will also need an air pump and filter in order for the fish to survive. There are various fish species you may choose to place in your pond, but they should be able to thrive in the environment established.

DIY Backyard Pond

Ready to learn how to build a small pond for fish, plants or wildlife in your yard? Once you have selected a type of pond for your landscaping, you should select a location to place it in your yard.

There are two ways to DIY a backyard pond; installing a flexible liner or installing a shell liner. Note that prior to starting any excavations, you must check for underground utilities. You can do so by calling 811.

Installing a flexible liner is carried out in just four steps. First, a hole must be dug and the interior inspected for sharp rocks, roots or stones that could tear the liner. Second, carefully place the liner into the hole, and be sure the edges are weighted down. Third, materials of your choice are placed at the bottom or sides of the pond before filling with water. Finally, the edges are cut and nailed into place before being covered with stones or masonry, and mortared in place. 

Installing a shell liner requires a few more steps and attention to detail. To start, the shell must be turned upside-down to mark an outline before digging the hole. It should be dug to the exact form of the shell – including any shelves – for full support. Any sharp objects should be removed, before the entire space is covered with two to three inches of damp soil. Next, the shell should be placed and checked to ensure that it is level. Once confirmed, it can be filled with water.

At the same time, the exterior of the shell needs to be backfilled to match the water level to prevent it from bulging outwards. Lastly, the edge can be covered with rocks or plants, but do not place them directly on the fragile rim of the shell.

Once your pond is installed and you have added fish or plants, take caution when using any maintenance chemicals. You should always ensure that they are safe for people, plants and pets, including any wildlife that may come into contact with your pond.

Do you plan on installing a pond in your yard this year? If so, take pictures and be sure to tag Daniels Lawn Service and Pressure Washing on Facebook. In the event that you would rather sit back and watch the work be done, contact us. We are proud to provide backyard landscape designs that are perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Learn more about our services today!