Here are some tips to keep in mind when digging that new pond:

· Make the pond as big as your space and budget allows. It is very hard to make a pond larger later and there is always another plant or another fish to add.

· The pond should be at least 18 inches deep in most areas of the country, but 2 - 3 feet is better.

· Incorporate plant shelves all the way around the pond to allow maximum flexibility for placing plants. Shelves should be between 6 and 12 inches deep and 10 - 12 inches wide.

· Slope plant shelves slightly to the outside of the pond so that plants will slide against the wall of the pond instead of into the pond itself as the liner gets slick over time.

· Slope the bottom of the pond slightly, so that all debris collects in one area. This will make cleaning the pond much easier.

· Use a quality liner of at least 45 mil to prevent future problems.

· Once the pond has been filled with water it can be left until spring at which time pumps, filters, fountains, etc. can be added.

Digging a pond in the fall allows for a quick start of the new water feature in the spring.

Brigitte Burchette
Copyright 2000