Page 306 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

304 POND FISH: SETTING UP THE POND

Building a pond

Thorough planning is the key to a successful result
when building a pond, whether using a preformed
pond unit or flexible liner. Think through all aspects
of the project before you start; draw up detailed
plans of the design and planting, and consider
practical matters, such as which materials and tools
will be required, and even how to dispose of the large
volumes of excavated earth that will be generated.

Excavation of a pond site can be physically demanding.
Although small ponds can be excavated manually, it may be
worthwhile to rent a small excavator for more extensive
works. Alternatively, some pond suppliers may build the pond
for you. Soil conditions can have a considerable effect on the
ease of construction. In sandy areas, for example, the soil is
loose and easy to dig, but it can be difficult to cut clean
boundaries; clay soils, by contrast, are easily shaped but Edging materials, such as the stone slabs bordering this mature
garden pond, are very effective at concealing the edges of the
present much more strenuous digging conditions. liner or preformed unit and give the pond a more natural look.

FLEXIBLE-LINER PONDS
Mark out the second level with
sand before starting to dig
Flexible liners are an extremely versatile
material for pond construction and are
ideal for informal ponds and unusual shapes. 1 Reinforce the outer edge
3
Detailed planning of the exact dimensions of Make sure the site is level.
the pond to be built is crucial, to avoid costly Define the edge of the pond
miscalculations of the amount of liner and with one layer of bricks set
underlay required (see p.302). in mortar, to reduce the risk
that the edges will collapse.
1 Mark the outer edge Spread
1
mortar
Use soft sand to define the outer edge of
the pond, and use this as a guide to where
2
to start digging. 1 Dig the first level
Start by digging down around the
Trail of perimeter to what will ultimately
sand become the level of the marginal
shelf, before going deeper.

Rake the base to
remove stones and Line of bricks
any other sharp follows contours
objects that could of pond
penetrate the liner.

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