Water Gardening: 12 Easy Steps to Your Dream Pond Using a PVC Liner
1.Location! Decide where to put your pond and make sure your right on target because after you begin, it will too late to change your mind.
2.Using a rope, a hose, some white powder or anything around the house to mark your spot, simply outline the desired shape of your pond.
3.Start digging and be sure to save the topsoil so you can use it later to landscaper around your pond.
4.If you plan on having plants, fish or other wildlife living in your pond, plan for depth. Expect to dig at least 24 to 36 inches deep but if you don’t plan on having anything in the pond then it’s best to stick with the standard suggestion of 18 to 24 inches deep. If you plan on incorporating some potted plants, make tiers around the inside of the pond 10 to 12 inches wide at various depths.
5.Clean the excavated area that’s been dug; remove any roots, rocks or debris that may cause hazard to your liner.
6.When in doubt, it’s best to ensure the life of your liner with a good ole layer of sand. It’s recommended that you use 1 to 2 inches in the bottom of the hole.
7.It’s time for truth; spread the liner over the hole allowing it to gently sag into the excavated area. Place rocks or bricks around the edges to hold the liner in place.
8.Then start filling your pond with water, remember filling the pond will help to smooth out the liner naturally and you should remove any rocks or bricks from the edges to allow the water to work it’s magic but you can help the liner along by smoothing out the edges as the water fills it.
9.If you’re not using an edging simply begin placing your desired border, which can be decorative rocks or bricks, maybe even the same ones you used to help steady the liner before filling!
10.If you have a smaller pond, a pump and/or filter may not be needed but if you have a larger one then you’ll probably need to install them. Some pumps do have built in filters but if you have a really large pond, yours will probably require a separate filter, also make sure the ones you’ve chosen are adequate for the volume in your pond before adding them.
11.If you plan on using fish or plants in your pond, don’t forget about the chlorine in your water unless you have well water. If your water has chlorine in it, it’s best to wait at least 3 days before adding any life to your pond to give the chlorine time to evaporate.
12.Last but not least, add anything to your pond you want!
Outdoor ponds are so easy to create; the most costly part of the project will undoubtedly be the cost for the pump and the filter. It’s best to consult with an aquatic professional, provide them with the measurements of your pond and let them suggest the type of pump and filtration system best for your project.
An outdoor pond can last for years and each time you venture into your yard, the pond will offer a hint of tranquility that we all can use from time to time. PVC liners are available at most home improvement stores at a fraction of the cost of what they once were, now more than ever, outdoor ponds are so affordable almost no one can resist.
Have fun with your project and design your own pond instead of buying a kit. You’ll be glad you did!
