How to Construct a Fish Pond
A fish pond can add a spectacular air to your backyard escape. The sounds of running water and the sight of fish add a sense of life and movement to an otherwise still yard. Add a few decorative plants and some nice river rock edging, and you just might find that your backyard has transformed into a relaxing getaway. It may take some elbow grease and a day of work, but once your pond is done you'll be able to enjoy it for years to come. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Level
- Large plastic pond liner
- Spray paint
- Shovel
- River rocks
- Water plants
- Pond filter
- pH Testing Kit
- Fish
Instructions
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1
Use the level to find a relatively level area in your back yard.
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2
Place the pond liner on the level spot in your yard.
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3
Spray the spray paint on the grass around the edge of the liner to make a line in the grass for you to follow.
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4
Move the pond liner to the side of the yard.
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5
Use the shovel to dig out the shape of the pond liner.
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6
Place the pond liner in the hole and pack in the dirt around it to keep it steady.
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7
Build little caves and crevasses out of some of the river rocks to make hiding places for your fish to get away from predators.
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8
Fill the pond liner with water.
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9
Plant any water plants you bought to put in the pond.
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10
Install the filter you bought as per the instructions that came with the filter.
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11
Lay the rest of the river rocks around the edge of the pond to hide the liner edge.
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12
Use the pH kit to make sure your water meets the pH level needs of your fish.
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13
Add your fish to the water.
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1
Tips & Warnings
A child's plastic swimming pool can be substituted for pond liner if you are only building a small pond. There are many different kinds of pond filters from small discrete filters to gushing waterfalls to bio-filters. Choose your filter by considering a combination of factors that include the size of your pond, your aesthetic preferences and the needs of your fish. You can also line your pond with concrete if you don't find a pond liner the size or shape you want, but it may be harder to balance the pH levels for your fish with a concrete lining. The depth needs of you pond will vary depending on the numbers and types of fish.
Make sure your pond is level or the water will not sit well in the pond liner. Do not add more fish than your pond can handle or the fish will not survive. Some plants may be poisonous to your fish, so research the best plant choices before planting them. If you live in an area that freezes, your pond must be deep enough that the water won't freeze.
