Q&A for How to Make a Pond

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How deep should a small pond be?

Scott Johnson
Landscape & Design Consultant
Scott Johnson is the Owner and Lead Design Consultant for Concrete Creations, Inc., an award-winning landscape and design company based in the San Diego, California metro area. He has over 30 years of experience in the pool and landscape construction industry and specializes in large estate outdoor environment construction projects. His work has been featured in San Diego Home & Garden Magazine and on Pool Kings TV Show. He earned a BS degree in Construction Management with an emphasis in Architecture and CAD design from Northern Arizona University.

Scott Johnson

Landscape & Design Consultant

Expert Answer

It's entirely up to you. Just keep in mind that the soil composition in your yard is going to impact how easy this is to do. A rocky soil is going to be a tough DIY project, since you're probably going to need a jackhammer and special tools. You typically need to hire a crew to dig that stuff up. If it's sandy loam, you could reasonably dig it out yourself.

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Question

Is there a way of making a pump that does not use electricty and uses natural resources?

Community Answer

There are a few solar powered pumps and wind driven pumps available but they are usually fairly low flow and may not be practical for a waterfall of much height.

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Question

How can I get rid of excessive algae?

Community Answer

Find the right balance of aquatic plants. I use water cabbages, they're really good at absorbing fish waste and removing algae. There are also very good algae eating fish, shrimp, and snails, such as Otocinclus catfish, mollies, Siamese algae eaters, cherry shrimp and Amano shrimp, ramshorn and mystery apple snails, and my favorite, nerite snails.

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Question

Where can I get pond liners?

Community Answer

Larger hardware outlets like Lowe's and Home Depot carry them.

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Question

What is the name of the material to use for pond liner?

Community Answer

For a suitable pond you could use anything out of: plastic, thick rubber, clay, or concrete. Although, some concrete ponds can contain chemicals or pesticides which can harm wildlife so choose carefully.

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Question

Can I use an old bathtub for duck pond?

Community Answer

Bathtubs can be coated chemicals toxic to fish and ducks, so it's not a good idea.

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Question

Do I have to add a waterfall instead of just a pump?

Community Answer

It is all your choice. Don't overthink it. It can have a fountain in the center, or a beautiful rock stream leading into the pond. Or, you can leave it alone without a feature.

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Question

Do I have to level my pond?

Community Answer

Yes––if you don’t, then you will have water tilting to one side and it won’t work well. For example, the plants will float against the edge, not in the middle, and the water will slosh out when it rains, etc. Also, it might cause fish to end up on the ground. Plus, it affects the appearance if it looks crooked.

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Question

What is the best type of liner and tarp for a 200 gallon pond?

Community Answer

Use a large pond liner. Do not use tarp, as it rips easily.

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