Begin with learning as much as you possibly can. Become a “know-it-all” even before you start. Read books and catalogs or call water garden suppliers and ask questions about their products. Next, pick the right location. Most water gardens are best in a sunny spot away from any tall plants and trees that may cast shade on your garden. Additionally, site your water garden several feet away from landscape features like fences and buildings. Also, position your pond so that it is sheltered from the wind. Lastly, decide on a location with utility access.
The next step is to decide on the size, shape, depth and type of pond. The bigger you build your pond the better, keeping in mind that larger ponds are often easier to maintain. There are different types of ponds available: liner, preformed plastic or fiberglass and container gardens. Liners allow the builder the most flexibility for size and shape while preformed ponds are more resistant to puncture than liners and easier to install. Container gardens are the perfect solution for water gardeners with space limitations.
Now that the pond is built, it is time to stock with plants and fish, aerate and clean with filters, add soothing, splashing sounds with waterfalls and fountains, and add a dramatic touch with lighting.
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