Water gardening made easy: an in-depth look

Flower & Garden Magazine, July, 2002

Backyard ponds and water gardens are for birds, butterflies, frogs, fish ... and you and your family. These ponds are typically small, sometimes no larger than three to four feet in diameter, and may be built in barrels or other patio containers. Water is effective in drawing wildlife to your backyard, as well as a natural, relaxing and scenic addition that can provide interest and enjoyment.

* WHERE TO PUT A BACKYARD POND

Consider locating your backyard pond where you can see it from a deck or patio and it blends in with its natural surroundings. Elevate the soil around the pond slightly so excess water will flow away from the pond, not into it, and be sure any drainage from the pond is away from your house. Plan to landscape around the pond to provide a habitat for frogs and birds that need land and water. If you would like to use a pump to re-circulate water, use a filter or light the area, be sure electrical service is readily available in that area. Additionally, there will be less maintenance if your pond is not under a tree, and most aquatic plants will grow better in full sun.

If you do not have space in your yard for a built-in earthen pond, consider a "tub" pond or large water bowls. These can be placed on the patio and provide many of the same benefits as a built-in pond. There are numerous tub kits available that can be as simple as adding water, a pump and some plants. They can also be moved inside in the winter as long as good lighting is provided for plants.

* POND LINERS

Pond liners keep water from seeping into the soil. Even in heavy clay soils, a liner is necessary. You can buy rigid pond liners in a variety of shapes; they are quite durable, and some may even include built-in waterfalls. However, many are quite small, and if you want a larger pool or would like to design your own shape, consider using a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) liner. Use a liner specifically designed for pools--while other plastics initially may be cheaper, many are not resistant to ultraviolet light and will break down quickly. Examine the toxicity of the plastic as well, as some plastics may be lethal to fish. Also, look into the thickness of the liners--a thicker liner tends to be more resistant to punctures.

If you do use PVC, to determine the amount of the piece you will need, measure the maximum width, length, and depth of your pond. Multiply the maximum depth by three, then add this number to both the length and width. This will allow enough plastic to be securely held down around all pond edges.

As a side note, while expensive and requiring more expertise to install, cement is also an option as a pool liner.

* INSTALLING THE POND

You can put in a backyard pond anytime the ground is not frozen or overly wet. If using a pre-formed liner, dig a hole to the correct depth and slightly wider. Insert the liner, making sure it is level and sits securely in the ground. Backfill around the sides, then add water, pump and plants. Complete landscaping around the pool.

If using a PVC liner, plan at least a weekend to install and landscape.

* STEPS TO INSTALL A POND WITH A PVC LINER:

1. Decide on your pond's location.

2. Using a hose or rope, lay out the shape of your pond on the ground.

3. Once you are happy with the shape, start digging. Stockpile your topsoil so you can use it to landscape around your pond.

4. Plan for part of your pond to be at least 18 to 24 inches deep; 24 to 36 inches is even better. This will allow for a greater diversity of plants and fish to live in the pond. You may want to make tiers around the inside of the pond at various depths on which to place pots of different aquatic plants. Make tiers about 12 inches wide to accommodate the pots.

5. Remove any rocks from the excavated area.

6. To help prevent punctures in the plastic, put a one-inch layer of damp sand on the bottom of the excavated area.

7. Spread the plastic liner over the hole. Let it sag gently in the hole. Place a few rocks or bricks around the edge to hold in place.

8. Slowly, start filling your pond. The weight of the water will help smooth out the liner. Remove rocks holding the edges to allow liner to conform to the edges of the hole. Smooth out wrinkles but do not pull too tightly. You can walk on the liner if you remove your shoes.

9. Finish off the pond by placing rocks around the edge to securely hold the liner in place.

10. Install pump and filter, if desired. Many smaller pumps have a built-in filter, but for larger pools, a separate pump and filter may be necessary. Be sure the filter and pump are adequate for the volume of water in your pond. Pumps not only add interest but are important in adding oxygen to the water. If you want a fountain or waterfall in your pond, you will need a pump to circulate the water.

11. Let the pond sit for a few days before adding fish and plants. This allows chlorine to evaporate from the water. Chemicals are also available that will quickly neutralize chlorine and other harmful compounds.

12. Place plants at various depths and add fish.