Backyard Pond
A
pond or
water garden will likely become the focal point for all your
backyard conservation.
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 3 to 4 feet in
diameter. They may be built in barrels or other
patio containers. Water is effective in drawing
wildlife to your backyard. It is also 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. Have it blend in with its
natural surroundings. Elevate the soil around
the pond slightly so that excess water will flow
away from the pond, not into it. Make sure that
any drainage from the pond is away from your
house. Plan to landscape around the pond to
provide habitat for frogs and birds that need
land and water. If you plan to use a pump to
re-circulate water, use a filter, or light the
area, be sure electrical service is available.
There will be less maintenance if your pond is
not under trees. 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.
Backyard Pond liners
Backyard 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.
These are durable and may include built-in
waterfalls. Many are quite small. 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. Some plastics
may also be toxic to fish. Liners also come in
different thicknesses. A thicker liner tends to
be more resistant to punctures. While expensive
and requiring more expertise to install, cement
is also an option as a pool liner.
If you use
PVC, you will need to get a liner large enough
for your pool. To determine how large a piece
you will need, determine the maximum width,
length, and depth of your pond. Multiply the
maximum depth by 3. Then add this number to both
the length and width. This will allow enough
plastic to be securely held down around all pond
edges.
Installing
the backyard 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. Add water, pump, and
plants. Complete landscaping around the pool. If
you use a PVC liner, plan on at least a weekend
to install and landscape.
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