1toknow: Home and Garden

Backyard Pond

Where to Put a Backyard Pond

Consider locating your backyard pond where you can see it from a deck or patio. Have it blend in with its natural surroundings. Elevate the soil around the backyard pond slightly so that excess water will flow away from the backyard pond, not into it. Make sure that any drainage from the pond is away from your house. Plan to landscape around the pond to provide habitat for frogs and birds that need land and water. If you plan to use a pump to re-circulate water, use a filter, or light the area, be sure electrical service is available. There will be less maintenance if your backyard pond is not under trees. Most aquatic plants will grow better in full sun.

If you do not have space in your yard for a built-in earthen backyard pond, consider a "tub" pond or large water bowls. These can be placed on the patio and provide many of the same benefits as a built-in backyard pond. There are numerous tub kits available that can be as simple as adding water, a pump, and some plants. They can also be moved inside in the winter as long as good lighting is provided for pond plants.