Gardening From The Ground Up

 


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Starting a Pond



First you must
    Find the optimal location using these criterion (i.e. the right place).

  • Where it will receive as much direct sunlight as possible.
  • Where the site is level  and out of the path of run-off water.
  • Where the pond will not collect leaves in the fall.
  • Where you will enjoy the beauty of your water garden!

    Find the right size.

  • Figure the smallest rectangle that can enclose your pond.

  • Determine the rectangle's maximum length and width.
  • Decide your pond's maximum depth.
  • Shelves for your shallow water bog plants do not affect your liner size.
  • Add 1' to the dimensions listed above to allow for measuring errors.
  • Order enough liner material to construct your waterfall if you plan to construct one.

  •  

    Liner Chart

    Maximum
    Pond Depth

    Add to Rectangle's
    Length/Width

    18"

    4' each

    24"

    5' each

    30"

    6' each

    36"

    7' each

    Now you are ready to begin installation
    Installing your pond is easy

     1: Outline your desired pond area with a garden hose or large rope.  Make your size and shape
    adjustments now, not after you begin to dig!

     2:  Mark your outline with cuts from your shovel and begin digging from the inside out, leaving
    shelves for bog plants, if you like. Most water gardens are 14-24" deep. In cold climates deeper ponds
    are needed to protect plants and/or animal life from freezing.

    3.  Check your excavation's top level.  This is critical to making sure that water does not pour over
     one side, and leave your liner exposed on the other.

     4. Lay out the liner and fold the outside edge to the center on all four sides until you have a package that is  easier to handle.

     5: Lay your liner package in place centering it in the excavation, Smooth out any wrinkles and making folds  where necessary. Begin filling with water. It can take hours to fill a large pond.

     6: When the liner is nearly full, trim the excess, fold the edge under making sure to open any creases so that the folds can not siphon water outside the pond.

     7. Tuck the folded edge of the liner into the soil and place the edge covering over the liner and surrounding soil.

    8. Allow the water to mature for several days before adding plants or animals to the pond. Complete the pond by adding fish and desired plants.

    02/01/2009

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