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How to Install a Backyard Pond

With spring in full bloom, now is the perfect time to augment the natural beauty of a well-manicured lawn home landscape with a backyard pond or water garden.

Most high-impact, visually-stimulating water features are budget-friendly and easy to do yourself whether a novice gardener, seasoned green thumb or any skill-level between.

"Backyard ponds create a sanctuary for the senses, from the soothing sounds of running water to the eye-pleasing sight of a beautifully crafted project," says Larissa Gleason, marketing manager of Beckett Corporation. "The whole family can enjoy the process of building a pond together and, with the wide array of pond kits available at national retailers, even first-time water gardeners can successfully complete a project."

Scoping out your backyard pond

Beckett, a leading manufacturer of water gardening products, offers the following tips for creating a pond:

Before heading out to the yard with shovel in tow, take some time to design and plan the project. Look through past vacation pictures and peruse magazines for inspiration. With a vision in mind, begin scoping out a place to incorporate the pond. Avoid choosing a spot directly under a tree.

While picturesque, falling leaves and bark would require that the pond be cleaned frequently. Also, be sure to check for underground wiring and other utility lines when looking for the pond's location. After finding the perfect area, prepare to embark on your pond adventure!

Installing the pond liner

Based on the shape of the pond, begin the project by choosing an appropriate liner. While flexible liners afford greater versatility in regards to shape and size, preformed liners take much of the guesswork out of digging a hole.

Installing a 35-gallon preformed pond liner can be achieved in just a few easy steps.

First, dig a hole to accommodate the liner that is slightly deeper so it sits level with the ground. With the liner in place, be certain that it fits tightly into the hole, and use loose dirt to backfill any gaps. Place a level across the top of the liner, checking that it's even in all directions.

With the base of the pond complete, additional embellishments such as waterfalls and streams will further enhance its visual appeal. Waterfall kits are available that are complete with all parts and step-by-step instructions needed for constructing a flowing cascade and stream. For a natural flow of water and an eye-catching drop, the waterfall should be elevated at least 10 inches above the surface of the pond.

Finishing touches

Lastly, complete the project by adding the final touches. Use artistic creativity to fulfill the vision by securing slate, rocks and pebbles using high-quality waterfall foam from Beckett. Bring the pond to life by adding plants, such as water lilies, floating moss or water ferns, and fish such as goldfish or Koi. With the last component in place, sit back and enjoy the soothing sounds of this flowing oasis.

also see -> Tips on Building an In-Ground Swimming Pool

Hydroponic Gardening

More about backyard ponds around the Web:

How to Build A Water Garden or Fish Pond - Step by step intructions including helpful diagrams and illustrations on planning, installation and maintenance with tips on edgings and aquatic plants.

Water Gardening - Expert advice from the University of Illinois Extension with guides to types of aquatic plants, their selection and care, plus more on container water gardening.

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