Outdoor Ideas: How To Build A Backyard Fishpond

A fishpond in your backyard can be one of the most therapeutic, serene and calm landscape choices that you can make. It is one of those Outdoor Ideas that will lend a touch of peace and tranquil to your overall landscaping theme. If you have kids at home they will love the idea of their own little fishpond in the backyard and if not, then its time to set free the child in you. A backyard water pool, is one of those outdoor ideas that can be easily transformed into a fun DIY project. You can get your family and kids involved so that the process brings as much gratification as the result. So lets get started.

Outdoor Ideas: How To Build A Backyard Fishpond

Koi Pond

Image Via: Compact power equipment rental

Location & Depth Of The Pool

Deciding the location of the fishpond can be a good way to start. For instance, you might want to ask your self whether you want a fishpond in sun or in shade? Well, if you want to sit besides your pool and enjoy watching and feeding your fish, then shade might be a good idea. On the other hand if you want flora like water lilies , etc., you cannot ignore the sun. Hence, weighing your options and deciding on the location is of paramount importance. Be careful not to place the pond in an area where water runs off after heavy rains. This water might contain pesticides from nearby lawns and can be harmful for the fish.

The next part involves deciding the depth of the pool. A depth varying between 4’ to 5,’  is sufficient for fish as well as flora. Remember to locate the drain at the deepest point.

A Fishpond At Home

Image Via: Landscaping Gallery

Deciding The Shape

Once the location and size of the fishpond has been decided, its time to progress further on this awesome outdoor idea. One needs to decide at this point what shape do you want the pool to have. If the existing outdoor landscape beholds a formal demeanor then a square or rectangular shape might be good. But if the entire scheme is casual and free, organic shapes can be great.  The size (width or diameter) could be as large as you can maintain.

Experimenting With Organic Shapes

Image Via: Aqua Scape Inc

Getting Started

Its time to begin the physical toil. Yes, you got it right. Its time to dig. Start by marking the area where the pool will go. Follow it up by digging making sure that none of the underground piping is spoilt or destroyed. Try to keep the vertical edges as smooth as possible and make a mini parapet to cordon off the pool from the surrounding area. This is necessary to prevent water running off into the pool.

A Fishpond At Entrance

Image Via: Stroovi

Installing A Pump

You will most probably need a pump in this little backyard fishpond of yours. As a rule of thumb go in for 2” for a pond of 1500 gallon or more and 3” to 4” for a pond contains 2500 gallons of water or more. You can easily hide the pump equipment under rocks. As far as the bottom drain goes, it is very important to install an anti-vortex cover. Else all your fish will be sucked up in the drain.

This outdoor idea is getting real, isn’t it?

Pond Liners

Making outdoor ideas like these a success does call on pondering on a few important points. Pond lining in this case. Lining is the skin of your pond and should last you for a long time. The three most popular liners are concrete spray, rubber liners and plastic tubs.

Fishpond-A Part Of Existing Landscape

Image Via: Desigfx

Some Other Important Pond Equipment You Need To Consider

Jets And Skimmers

Eduction jets are used to create underwater currents and hence thrust the water ahead to steer clear of water stagnation areas. A skimmer will help you rake fallen leaves and debris automatically. All ensuring your fishpond remains as pretty as a picture.

Filters And Water Clarifiers

Filter media will trap sand and debris and inject in some good bacteria that are vitally important for the well being of your pond and fish. UV water clarifiers on the other hand will help steer clear of algae and keep the water clean.

Sum It Up With Fish And Water

You could go in for a gentle stream of water or opt for a waterfall sort of a thing. The choice is yours. As far as fish are concerned Koi fish are a great choice to make. You could instead opt for fancy goldfish too.

Koi Fish Pond

Image Via: Home Garden Air

If you are a first timer with Fishponds, this outdoor idea might need a little expert guidance. Nonetheless it isn’t something that you can’t get involved in yourself. So set the stage and get prepared for your very own backyard fishpond, the pride of your home and your immediate locality. Lets get started on this great Outdoor Idea that can turn into very creative DIY project. Looking forward to hear from you how exciting do you find this outdoor idea!

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