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 CONSTRUCTING A POND
Somewhere in nearly every garden there is room and possibly a need for a small or even large water garden. A place to relax , a cool place for the summer. Enjoy the fish and other pond life, the reflections, the beauty and scent of the aquatic plants.
Firstly you must choose a site for your pond, if it is practical to have one. Remember most children are attracted to water and some dogs have a pressing urge to
bathe. Site your pond away from trees, areas which do not get any sun, or where it will be in full sun all day. Incorporate it into your overall garden design.
SITE PREPARATION
Remove the topsoil and store for reuse or spread on other areas in the garden. Mark out the shape of the pond using pegs and
string lines and excavate to the required depth. The excavated material can often be disposed of by making a raised bed around
the pool to give it a sunken effect. Compact and level the bottom to form a firm and even base.
INSTALLATION
The method of installation will depend on the type of pool chosen. Other Fact sheets
deal with liners, preformed and concrete pools.
SEASONING
Before plants and fish are introduced, it is necessary to season the pool. The usual method is to fill the pool with water and
leave for a week or so. The next step depends on the type of pool chosen. Kits are available from specialist aquatic centres to
test the water before adding stock.
STOCKING
If the pool is to be a success it will be necessary to put in plants of various kinds. There is a very wide choice of plants available
from floating aquatics, oxygenators, ordinary aquatics, ferns, rushes, to tall growing perennials for the surrounds. These, with
the fish, and the crustaceans (snails) will help to keep the water “sweet”.
Soon after the pool has been stocked with plants and fish , the clarity of the water will disappear. Do not empty and refill the
pond as the clouding is part of the natural cycle. Providing the pond has been properly stocked with the correct plants and
livestock to give the necessary balance, the water should again become perfectly clear.
AFTERCARE
Once established there is a minimal amount of maintenance necessary to keep a garden pool in good order. Even though little
work is required, it is important that it is done regularly and on time. A garden pool is a vulnerable environment that needs to be
observed regularly.
Trent Stone have many types of rockery and walling and other stone in their range which are ideal for use with ponds and water features. Beach cobbles and decorative gravels or chippings are also available.
This fact sheet is a service provided by TRENT STONE. Suppliers of Bulwell Stone, Rockery & Walling,
Paving, Decorative Gravels and Stone materials.
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