Backyard Pond Ideas – Tips for Designing a Backyard Pond
If you wish to design a pond, you are probably looking for backyard pond ideas.
A backyard pond is a great idea if you are looking for a fun way to landscape.
A pond gives you plenty of options. It adds some color to your garden and you may accessorize it as you please.
Building a pond does not need to be difficult. You can do it in a short time with the help of a friend or family member.
The secret is to understand the kind of pond you want and where you want to build it. You should have a clear understanding of the accessories that are important to you and the types of fish and plants you wish to add.
Contact the Dig Line
Once you have looked at a few backyard pond ideas, you should start the planning process.
At this point, you should have identified the location of underground utilities. The location of your pond should be away from water and electrical lines. If you are not sure, you should contact your gas or electricity provider for help.
Your pond should be accessible and away from trees and bushes.
If you prioritize aesthetics, consider installing your pond in an area that is visible from your window. Your pond should be in a spot that receives enough sun and shade all day.
Thinks About the Size
Your backyard pond ideas should factor in the size of your pond. The minimum size of your backyard pond should be 7 by 4 ft.
You can make it bigger if you have lots of space in your backyard. Bigger ponds are easier to design than smaller ones. You can have a pond that is as big as 300 square feet.
The depth of your pond is important too. Your pond should be at least 1.5 ft. in depth. If you wish to have goldfish and aquatic plants in your pond, it should be at least 1.5ft deep.
If your backyard pond ideas include getting a koi pond, you should design a pond that is at least 3ft deep. Deep ponds are great for maintaining consistent temperatures.
Choose a Pond Shape that Works for You
The right pond is one with rounded corners. You do not have to stick to any particular shape. It is, however, wise to go for natural shapes.
You should mark out the shape of your pond on the ground. Play around with different shapes until you find the one that works for you. You may use a hose or spray paint.
Dig the Pond
If you are confident with the location and shape of your pond, you can start digging it. Dig your pond according to your measurements and plan.
Ensure that the edges slop gently towards the center. If you plan on having aquatic plants on the pond, create little terraces where the plants will grow.
You do not have to dig the pond yourself. You can hire a professional excavator to help you.
What Type of Fish Should You Have?
The best fish to use in your pond are goldfish. They do not require you to invest a lot of your time or effort to keep up with. Remember that not all types of fish can live together.
Consider using a few peaceful fish types such as ember tetras, cardinal tetras, and zebra or leopard danios. They are all small fish and they come in lots of beautiful colors.
If you do not plan on heating your pond, you should go for cold-tolerant fish. They include goldfish and koi. If your pond is a few feet into the ground, it is easier to keep the water from freezing.
Just a side note, do not feed your fish in winter. They are not able to digest food well when it is cold.
Adding Plants to Your Pond
Plants are an important part of any backyard pond. When looking for backyard pond ideas, you must think about the plants you want to include.
Plants play a major role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem in your pond. Plants may have the following effects;
Limiting the growth of algae
Plants in your pond make it difficult for sunlight to be absorbed in your pond. They make it easy to minimize the growth of algae.
Algae is not only unpleasant to look at but also bad for your plants. It competes with your plants for nutrients. It may also clog your filters.
Improved Looks
Plants look great. They can turn a basic-looking pond into a beauty. Play around with shapes, colors, and different aquatic blooms to make your pond beautiful.
Oxygenate Water
Plants may help you increase the levels of oxygen in your pond. Your fish may not thrive if they do not have sufficient oxygen. Oxygenated water prevents the growth of algae.
Shelter for Fish
The right plants in your pond may act as a shelter for aquatic wildlife. Your fish and the wildlife may depend on the plants as a source of food.
They Create a Natural Look
If your goal is to create a backyard pond that looks natural, aquatic plants are your best friend.
Plants soften barriers between your backyard and the pond. You do not need to use artificial barriers as they may look stiff.
Filtering the Water
Your aquatic plants absorb nutrients from your pond water. They are, therefore, part of a natural filtration system. Having plants in your pond can help you keep the water clean.
It is important to note that some plants may not be appropriate for your pond. There are a few factors that you should keep in mind when looking for the right plants for your pond.
Some of the things to consider include your climate, the shape of your pond, and the effect you want to achieve.
When designing your backyard pond, it is important to note that what works for one person may not work for another. Think about the effect you want to achieve and create a pond that matches your needs.