A BACKYARD FISH POND

Water gardens and backyard ponds are for butterflies, frogs, birds, fish, you, and the whole family. These ponds may be small, may even be no larger than 3 to 4 feet in diameter. These may be built in patio containers and barrels. Drawing wildlife in your backyard may be done by adding water gardens and ponds. These will not only provide enjoyment and interest but also a natural and relaxing environment as well. A fish pond in your backyard may become the focal point of your backyard conversation. So spice it up with this tips and techniques.

 Where to Put Up a Backyard Pond

Place your fish pond in a place where you can best view it from, whether from a deck or the patio. Make it coincide with the natural surroundings. Do not place the pond where the sun can overheat it. Nestle it in a shaded place but not under the trees, unless you want to constantly be removing leaves and debris from the trees. This technique will also provide less maintenance to the pond. Expose the pond to sufficient sunlight only since some aquatic plats grow well in full sun and others do not.

 Landscaping

It is best to slightly elevate the soil surrounding the pond so that excess water will not enter into it. Plan the drainage system of the pond, making sure that it draws the water away from your house. Landscaping the surroundings around your pond will provide a natural dwelling place for birds and frogs that need water and land. Make sure that electricity is available if you plan to use lights, filters, or a water re-circulating device.  

Using Pond Liners

 Pond liners are used to keep water from leaking into the soil. It is almost always necessary for ponds even if it they are situated in clay soils. Pond liners come in different shapes and sizes. They even include built in waterfalls or any design based on your preferences. They are durable and convenient. Consider a poly vinyl chloride liner (PVC liner) in building larger ponds.

Garden and Patio Ponds

Larger Yard Pond

 If you always thought it would be fun to have a pond, now is the time to try it, with the variety of materials now on the market, anyone can have a garden pond, regardless of the size of the yard.

 If you have a lot of space, you can build one right in the ground. You can purchase a pre-formed mold or dig a hole and line it with a plastic pond liner. A simple type of pond consists of a plastic lined barrel or tub. Just add water, plants, a pump, and fish--and waala  you have a pond for your patio.

Be sure to consider sources of electricity if you intend to add a pump.
Also, make sure you use caution and take security measures if small children have access to your yard and the pond.

Another factor to consider is maintenance. A pond can require a lot of effort to keep it clear of algae, leaves, and debris.

• Avoid direct sunlight, but it needs at least 5 hours.
• Avoid low spots that receive runoff.
• Find a level spot.
• Avoid placing ponds under large trees.

If you are short on space and time you can consider alternatives to a full size pond such as:

Whiskey barrels make great mini-ponds for apartment size terraces and patios.You can purchase the barrel and liners from most Lowe's or Home Depot's or any other garden and supply store near you. Start with the empty barrel you can add a little gravel/rocks to the bottom. Then place the liner insert in the barrel. You can make a pond by filling it with water, plants, pump and there you have it a beautiful addition for your patio.

Whiskey Barrel Planter

There are many pond kits and tubs on the market, to make setting up your first attempt at designing a pond simple and quick.One quick and easy set up is the whiskey barrel with a tub insert, this makes for a good patio pond. Add lighting and effects for a touch of drama.


You can get creative and create mini-ponds with different containers, you just need to add a pump and a little creativity.

Check out this video which shows an easy way to set up a patio pond. This shows that with a little creativity you can still create a beautiful pond for your outdoor space. You can purchase the full kit from The Pond Outlet for apx. $160.00 with shipping and handling.

Ponds and Fountains

Three-tier Courtyard Fountain

Garden ponds and fountains were once mainly for the very rich. Today, anyone can have a garden pond or fountain. A fountain or waterfall can be included almost anyplace--even if your "yard" is limited to a patio or balcony.

Adding water to your patio can be as simple as setting out a shallow dish of water for use as a birdbath. Any shallow container at least 6 inches wide and a half-inch deep will work. Pie pans, garbage can lids, or flowerpot bases work well in small spaces. One tip is to take the base of a clay pot, and sit it on top of a clay pot that has been turned upside down, fill the container with clean water and wash it every day or two.

 Adding a fountain may be a little more challenging for small spaces but can be done see the simple fountain and courtyard fountain below.