Garden Ponds

Garden ponds can change the total look of the yard. Fountains, flowers, pond lights, and other accessories featured in garden ponds provide excellent ways of making ordinary yards appear truly exceptional. Garden ponds can become the focal point for every homeowner’s backyard conservation, which provides a soothing setting for pleasure.

A garden pond is also a great way of attracting butterflies, birds, frogs, and other wildlife into the backyard, giving it a more natural ambiance. Moreover, its water element provides a “naturally” scenic, and relaxing addition for enjoyment.

Garden ponds are usually small, and are sometimes no bigger than three to four feet in width. They can be constructed in barrels or in different types of patio containers.

While garden ponds are wonderful features for backyards, they do need considerable amount of work, as well as can be expensive to install and maintain. The more complex the garden pond is, the more effort, time, and money it requires.

Garden Pond Designs

When it comes to garden pond designs, the choices can be endless. From basic settings to the most elaborate designs, the options are limitless and will simply depend on the size and location of the yard. Garden ponds may be built in almost any size and shape wanted, and one can make them into wonderful oasis like creating Koi pond designs, or swimming pond designs, or adding an extensive range of landscape features to create water garden designs.

Other designs can include formal ponds, rigid stream, cobble beaches, reservoirs, canals, stepping-stones, detailed pond lighting, and bridges into their designs. Additionally, for those constructing the “usual” garden pond, there are some basic options, including preformed ponds, custom ponds, and pond kits. The good thing about garden pond designs is that one can be as creative as they want to be.

Basic Considerations

On the other hand, there are some basic things to consider before building garden ponds. Think about the location of the garden pond, and it would be good to place it where it can be seen from the patio or deck of the house. Let it blend in to the natural surroundings of the garden, and slightly elevate the soil around it to allow excess water to flow away from it and not into it.

Also, ensure that the garden pond’s drainage is placed away from the house. The landscape around the garden pond must provide a habitat for birds and frogs that need water and land. If pumps are going to be used for re-circulating the pond’s water, then use filters or light the pond area, and make sure that electrical service is obtainable. Additionally, keep in mind that less maintenance is needed for garden ponds that are not placed under trees, and nearly every aquatic plant can grow better when they receive full sunlight.

Other Options

If the space in the yard is not big enough for built-in “earthen ponds”, then big water bowls or “tub” ponds must be considered. These types of ponds may be positioned on patios, and they also give lots of the same advantages as built-in ponds. There are also several tub kits available that’s as easy as adding water, some plants, and a pump. They’re also movable, and can be placed inside the house during winters, as long as lighting can be provided for the plants.

Garden Pond Safety

For the family’s safety, especially children, the garden pond must be located where it’s unlikely to draw attention to children. Check the local ordinances for safety to find out if fences are required for a particular size and depth of intended pond. Also check building ordinances for safety restrictions, depth, and permits. Provide “ground-fault circuit interrupter” for the outdoor outlets, and don’t forget to unplug pumps before cleaning pond filters.

Garden ponds can brighten up a garden, and provide a great outdoor haven for the family. They should be well planned, including its style, design, features, size, and safety.