Whether you want a small waterfall or stream, a pond to encourage daily reflection or a thriving ecosystem filled with exotic fish, backyard ponds can add a unique element to any landscape design.
Before you start digging, here’s a few basic guidelines and considerations to ensure the building process is smooth and that you’re ready for the maintenance and upkeep.
Five Factors to Consider With Backyard Ponds
Backyard garden ponds offer a place to escape and relax at the end of a long day. But many local homeowners discover too late that backyard ponds require significant time, energy, and money to maintain.
Here are five things to know and handy tips when building a backyard pond:
- Location matters: Find a pond location that’s easy to view and access, receives at least half a day of sun and is near an existing electrical outlet. Make sure the area isn’t in a low spot where rain runoff is a concern.
- Depth determines pond style: The depth of your pond affects its appearance and the overall installation cost. Shallow ponds are ideal for displaying unique aquatic plant life and decorative rocks, while deeper ponds are more suitable for keeping fish.
- Pond linings influence pond size: The type of pond liner will affect how large or small your pond is. Quality pond liners will also determine how long your pond will last, routine maintenance needs and what type of plant and animal life your pond can support.
- Even small ponds need regular maintenance: When you install a backyard pond, you’ll have to be committed to routine maintenance and care. Pump filters and equipment will need to be changed or cleaned regularly. If you opt to have fish in your pond, you’ll need to plan on feeding them daily.
- Fish require special care: Backyard ponds with fish require special design considerations to keep the animals comfortable and happy. Allow at least two cubic feet per fish, leave room for fish to breed and make sure the pond is deep enough to protect the fish from cold weather freezes.
Elevate the Look of Your Landscape Design With a Backyard Pond
Ponds add natural sophistication and relaxation to any landscape design scheme. When you’re ready for a beautiful backyard pond, reach out to the experienced and creative landscape design and installation professionals at Shearer Patio & Landscape Services. We’ll work closely with you to find pond designs and materials that meet your budget and lifestyle.
Call us today at 614-889-9981 or fill out our contact form to request a free project quote.
