Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best size for a watergarden?
How large of a pond can you have?
How deep should the pond be?
What is the best location for my pond?
Do I need rocks in my pond?
Do I feed the fish all year long?
Why do I want bacteria in my pond?

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What is the best size for a watergarden?

Our years of installing watergardens have shown us that every site can have its own perfect size watergarden, This fact makes it impossible to say any one size is best, however a size of 11ft x 16ft and 24 inches deep seems to be the most versitale for your first watergarden.

How large of a pond can you have?

There is no limit to the size of the pond. Larger ponds are built using the same rock solid principles as the small ponds! The only difference when building a larger pond is the quantity of rocks, size of the pumps and filtration system, and the amount of labor and equipment required to build it.

How deep should the pond be?

Hardy fish, such as Koi, will survive through winter in zone 5, in as little as 18 inches of water. The majority of ponds we build here in zone 6 are 24 inches deep. We can go deeper if you want, but keep in mind a few key factors in the design. A deeper pond will require more digging, rock, and a bigger liner. Bigger filters and skimmers, pumps and plumbing may also be required depending on how deep you want to go and how much water is held in the pond.

What is the best location for my pond?

The best place for a pond is the place it will be seen the most, such as at the patio, or deck. Not at the rear of the property , this will make it harder to enjoy.

Do I need rocks in my pond?

Yes we believe so. The rocks and boulders serve several pourposes in the pond, not the least of beauty. The natural look of gravel wins over bare liner any day. Also gravel gives beneficial bacteria a place to grow this aids in the water clarity of your pond.

Do I feed the fish all year long?

Once the water temperature drops below 50 degrees F., stop feeding your fish. During the time of year your fish will become dormant. Their respiration, metabolism, and overall activity slows down as they prepare for their winter hibernation. Feeding your fish this time of year can cause your fish to become sick or even die.

Why do I want bacteria in my pond?

Poor water quality is caused by a variety of factors, including low oxygen levels and elevated levels of nutrients (phosphorous & nitrogen). These nutrients are needed by living organisms, but too much of them can lead to problems like green water. Enlisting the help of bacteria serves a dual purpose. First they break down waste. Second, they utilize the waste before the algae can benefit from it. Simply put, the bacteria compete for the same nutrients as the undesired algae.