Are You Up for the Challenge of a Fish Pond?

A dramatic way to enhance the beauty of your property is with a fish pond. If you're fortunate enough to have a large backyard, the addition of a pond can only enhance its appearance. However, installing a pond means a real commitment of both your energy and time. First you'll select a location, construct the fish pond, then provide it with ongoing maintenance so it will add beauty to your property.

Installing a fish pond will completely change the look of your landscaping, so it's important to consider carefully before you choose a location. Keep in mind that once it's in, it's there for a long time, unless you're willing to go to the trouble and expense to relocate it. You'll want to place your fish pond where there's sufficient room for both the pond itself and the surrounding vegetation that will enhance it.

Beneath a tree is not a good location for a pond. Falling leaves are a given with any tree. Once they fall into the pond, you have to scoop them out. If you don't, the plants and fish in your pond will certainly suffer. It's also important to position the pond so it has optimal sunlight in order for the fish and plants to thrive.

Apart from the location, your next step is to determine the size and shape of pond that is best suited to your property and the overall effect you are trying to achieve. Consider the type of fish and water plants that you want to feature. A koi fish pond, for instance, has to be considerably larger than a goldfish pond. You can choose from a variety of shapes in a hard shell pond liner, including round, square, oval, rectangular and kidney shaped. Or you can go with flexible pond liners that let you decide the shape.

Now you need to think about the upkeep of your fish pond. There's no doubt that you want it to look its best at all times. But your real concern should be the proper care of the fish and plants in the pond. Regular feeding of the fish and cleaning of the pond are essential. Make sure you read up on how to properly care for whatever type of fish you choose to stock, and also the requirements of any water plants in the pond.

There's a considerable amount of time and effort involved in planning and installing a pond, but there's also the maintenance to consider. So it's essential that you're truly committed to the whole idea before proceeding. However, if you're up for the challenge, you can look forward to many years of pleasure from this lovely landscaping addition.