How to Add a Water Feature or Pond to Your Garden
If you have a lackluster space in need of some attention, or if you want to bring the soothing sound of running water to a high traffic area, consider adding a water feature or pond. This DIY project is a great way to create a calm peaceful setting in your garden. Learn more in this Smartpond video presented by Lowe’s:
Space and location must be taken into consideration as you plan your water feature:
Space: How much available space do you have? This will determine the type of water feature that is best for your space. A round pre-formed pond is suitable for a small backyard deck. If you have a narrow walkway, consider a rectangular pond with a flexible liner.
If size is not an issue, an organically shaped pond and multitiered waterfall and stream is ideal.
Location: The water feature should be visible from many areas. There should also be sufficient exposure to sunlight to support plants such as water lilies. Avoid tree-covered areas as falling leaves and matter create debris that can clog the pump and upset the biological balance of the pond. For safety reasons, the area should be free of underground power lines and gas pipelines. Be sure to check local building codes and ordinances regarding backyard pools.
Build your water feature by following these steps:
1. Determine the size of your water feature by using a water hose or spray paint to outline the design. The base of the pond is generally 1.5′ deep. In colder climates, dig at least 2′ or more to protect fish against freezing. The base of the pond can include several ledges at varying depths to hold rocks and plants for added interest.
2. Make sure the top edges of the pond are level. Create an elevated 6-8″ ledge around the perimeter to keep unwanted water from flowing into the pond. Remove any rock or debris from the base and walls of the pond. Underlayment is needed to protect the liner from punctures; sand or carpet remnants may be used.
3. Determine the size of liner, taking into account all added pond ledges, and allow an extra 2′ for edging. Unfold the liner and cover the pond. Tuck the liner tightly in all areas and anchor with stones.
4. Choose your pump size by using this simple formula: average length x average width x average depth x 7.5. This is how many gallons your pump should circulate (gallons per hour). Once the pond liner is covered with stones, position the pump at base of pond on top of a brick or flat stone. This will keep the pump from sucking in debris at the bottom of the pond. The corrugated tubing and pump cord should be hidden within a fold of the liner and run over the edge of the pond. To ensure maximum cleaning efficiency, use a pond filter to improve water quality while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
5. Now you can add lighting; the cord can be tucked into a fold of the liner. Continue adding large stones around the edge to anchor the liner. The liner should extend at least 10″ past the elevated edge. Trim and bury the excess liner or cover with stone and rock.
The elevation for the waterfall featured in this video was created with cinder blocks and excess dirt from the pond. Corrugated tubing runs from the pump to the filter, and from the filter to the top of the waterfall. The waterfall pump forces water to fall down multiple levels of slate, meanders into the stream, and passes gently into the pond. To maximize water flow, minimize the number of bends and turns in the tubing as feasible.
