Build An Outdoor Pond In Just One Day

By Michael Wezsky

Before you start your own backyard pond, it's best to get used to building one first. Don't worry if it sounds difficult - this outline will have you building and finishing a pond in just one day.

That's right. One day.

Learning the Basics with a Starter Pond

A starter pond? What's that you say? Think about it is a test pond. A simplified pond project that allows you to see what goes into making a proper pond. It'll allow you to think about things like pond size, pond depth, materials and equipment; things which first time pond-makers usually forget.

Now, the idea of the starter pond is that you should keep things small. As Mel Gibson said in The Patriot, "Aim small, miss small." If you limit the size of the pond, you also limit the things that could go wrong. With that in mind, you'll be able to judge just how big your starter pond should be.

Tools and Equipment

There's a whole bunch of things that you'll need for your starter pond. Although this isn't as big as some other construction projects, there are some things that you absolutely must have.

Obviously, the first thing you need is some sturdy digging tools. Whatever kind of pond you're building, you're going to be digging a lot.

Pond liner is a great alternative to pre-made shells. Canvas is usually sufficient for a starter pond. But if you like, go out and browse through the different types of liners available in stores.

A garden hose and some spray paint will come in handy when you're setting up to dig. You can use them to mark the location of your pond and the shape it will be. This allows you to work faster and more accurately than just guessing where you should dig.

Pond water needs to be cleaned and the best way to do this is to install a filtration system. Purchase a water pump and filter and set it up in your pond. This equipment is electrical, of course, so make sure you erect a power source nearby. If possible, put all of these things in an obscure spot so that they don't disturb the natural look of your pond.

Step-by-step Guide to building your starter pond

To sum things up, these are the steps in making your one-day pond.

1. Make a pond plan.

2. Mark your pond's shape with a garden hose or spray paint.

3. Dig the desired depth and shape of your pond.

4. Line the pond with either flexible pond liner or a pre-molded pond shell.

5. Install the filtration system; pump, filter, tubes and all.

6. Fill up the pond with water from the tap.

7. Activate the filtration system by plugging it into a nearby power source.

And with that you've successfully built your starter pond! If you like, you can treat it just like a full-blown pond by adding plants and fish. Just make sure that you're ready to handle them. While the pond may be small and a bit plain looking, the experience will undoubtedly help when it's time for your real pond building project. - 33393

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