Advanced Sustainable Garding Tip: Adding A Backyard Fishpond

You may not think of a fish pond as a part of the garden, but actually fishponds can be a great asset to your sustainable gardening endeavors. Not only do they make an attractive addition to the scenery, but they can be an amazing source of fertilizer for your garden - maybe the only one you need, if your garden is small! My sister called my attention to this fact. She is an avid gardener, and every time she cleans out her koi pond, she adds the contents to her garden or compost. She has one of the most beautiful, lush, and healthy organic gardens I've ever seen. All she does is use the natural waste from her fish to feed her garden, which then feeds her family - now that's what I call sustainable!

Here are some tips on building your own fish pond:

Remember that a small backyard pond isn't just for fish, but also for butterflies, frogs, birds, you, and the whole family. These ponds may be quite small, even as small as 3 to 4 feet in diameter, which should be quite easy to maintain. These will not only provide enjoyment and visual interest but also a natural and relaxing environment as well.

Where to Build a Backyard Pond

A pond in a residential garden. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For best ambiance, place your fish pond in a place where you can easily view it from, whether from a deck or the patio. Integrate it into the natural surroundings, and do not place the pond where the sun can overheat it. Nestle it in a mostly shaded place but not directly under trees, where you'll have problems with leaves in the fall, and it may be too shady for some aquatic plants.

Landscaping

It is best to slightly elevate the soil surrounding the pond so that excess water will not drain into it. This can cause it to overflow, and in cases where you may have neighboring lawns, chemicals could flow into the pond and kill your fish. Plan the drainage system of the pond, making sure that it drains the water away from your house - not towards it.

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. This is almost always necessary for small ponds even if it they are situated in clay soils. Plastic 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.

Pond liners come in different thicknesses as well. The thicker the pond liner, the more resistant it is to punctures. Cement may be considered as an optional pool liner. However, it requires more expertise to install and it may cost more than the regular plastic pond liner.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

However, considering that many ponds are quite small, plastics are often the best choice. However, keep in mind that some of the cheaper ones may break down easily under prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light, so they may need to be replaced every few years. Some plastics also may prove to be toxic to fish, so be sure to check before buying one, that it is safe for fish and wildlife. (Look for those marked "Nontoxic" or "Fish Safe".)

Pond Installation

Time your pond building when the ground is not overly wet or frozen. Dig the hole according to the right depth and place (and secure) the pond liner. Then landscape the pond surroundings. Remove any rocks from the surrounding area. Add water, plants, and a pump. Let the pond sit for a few days before adding plants and fish. Let the plants settle for at least one week before placing the fish.

Then sit back and enjoy your backyard fish pond!


Resources to Help Build Your Fishpond: