How to Convert a Pond to a Dry Creek Bed

There may come a time that you have no more purpose for your pond. Whatever the reason may be, you can convert the unusable pond into a dry creek bed which can help add curb appeal to your yard.

Things You'll Need

• Pond
• Water pump
• Soil
• Gravel
• Rocks
• Liner or tarp
• Assorted plants and ornamental grasses
• Shovel for digging and filling
• Wheel barrow to carry the soil and gravel
• Sand compactor

Instructions

1. Empty your pond. Remove water with a pump. Remove dead plants, debris or mechanisms that have been installed for the pond to work like a fountain, filter or pump.

2. Pour a mixture of gravel and soil to fill the newly emptied pond. Use a compactor to ensure that it will not sink or sag or collapse when the heavy rain comes. Ensure that it slopes down a little so that when it rains the water will flow down.

   Create the slope opening towards a ditch or drainage. You can also install a draining system underneath before pouring the soil and gravel.

3. Put a liner or tarp to prevent weed growth.

4. Add different sizes of rocks. Place them strategically to mimic Mother Nature. Place big boulders on the sides and corners. Keep smaller to medium rocks at the center.

5. Add plants and assorted ornamental grasses to the surrounding areas to soften and add color to the landscape.

Tips & Warnings

• Use work gloves for protection.

• Make this a family weekend project.

• Use proper care when lifting heavy boulders so as not to break your back.