How to Create a Woodland Backyard Pond

Building a Woodland Pond

1). Choose a location away from trees and rain runoff. Trees add debris and extra cleanup to a pond, while rain runoff can introduce toxins into the pond. Neither of these things is desirable. Notice that your pond area should get at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily.
2). Lay a long rope on the ground so that it forms the outer edge of your pond. Your pond can take any shape you desire. Your finished pond will be smaller than the pattern appears, so make sure your pond pattern is just a little bigger than what you want the inside area to be.
3). Remove the dirt from the ground. The hole should be a minimum of two feet deep. However, colder areas that are prone to freezing should be at least three feet deep. If desired, create shelves in the pond and allow the ground to slope from 12 inches to a maximum depth of at least two feet.
4). Line the pond with old carpeting. Carpet provides an excellent foundation for the rubber pond liner, and will prevent roots and rocks from damaging the liner. It is also a good way to recycle old carpet.
5). Place the rubber pond liner over the entire pond area. Make sure that the liner is relatively smooth. It is OK if there are a few wrinkles.
6). Dig a trench around the edge of the pond and about four inches underneath the pond liner. Bury the liner into the ground and cover the edges with the soil. If desired, place rocks around the edge of the pond, or place grass over the top of the liner, so that it has a more natural appearance.
7). Fill the pond with water. Allow the pond to fill until it almost overflows. Take three empty gallon jugs to a nearby pond and fill the jugs with natural pond water. Empty the water into your pond. This will introduce the bacteria and organisms that are typically found in ponds in your area into your pond.
8). Add plants to your pond. Plants can be planted inside containers and submerged to prevent the plant roots from piercing the liner. Water plants that float on the surface may also be used. Suitable floating plants include anacharis, and water hyacinth.