Things You'll Need:
- A yard
- Water hose or rope
- Wooden stakes
- Pond liner
- Shovels
- Pick axe
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Step 1
Plan the location of your backyard pond or water garden carefully. Take into account the lay of the land, amount of sunlight, and how many large trees are around. Large trees have large roots, and they cannot be cut to make way for a water garden. Choose an area that is open and accessible.
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Step 2
Check with the township or any utility companies to make sure there are no gas pipes or electrical or cable lines where you plan to dig. If you break one of these things, you will have huge fines and danger to self and property.
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Step 3
Use a rope or flexible garden hose to lay out the shape of your water garden on the ground. If you are using a pre-formed pond liner, set that on the ground and use wooden stakes to mark the outline of the pond. It is easier to dig a water garden when you are using a flexible liner because you can change the shape slightly if you come up against a tree root or other obstacle.
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Step 4
Begin to dig. Use a shovel or pick axe to dig the hole for your water garden. If the pond will be especially large, rent a small backhoe or ditch digger. Fire up the BBQ and bribe the family to help with promises of free spareribs and beer.
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Step 5
Keep digging. A water garden must be at least two feet deep to be able to keep fish in it over the winter. In the southern states this depth is needed so the water does not get too warm for goldfish or koi. Make the bottom and sides flat. If you are using a pre-made solid liner, you will have to test it repeatedly to make sure it fits.
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Step 6
Cut any roots, remove all rocks, and make sure you have a good layer of firm but soft soil or sand all around the inside of the water garden hole. You are now ready to put in the liner and complete your water garden or backyard pond.
