Converting a simple water feature into a stunning pond can completely transform your backyard Ponds create a peaceful oasis and add value to your outdoor space With a bit of planning and elbow grease, you can upgrade your water feature into a gorgeous pond in just a weekend. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to convert your water feature into a paradise pond.
Why Convert a Water Feature into a Pond?
There are many great reasons to turn your water feature into a pond
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Enjoy nature’s beauty – Ponds attract birds, butterflies, and dragonflies, bringing nature right to your backyard. The soothing sound of running water promotes relaxation.
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Low maintenance – Modern pond designs are eco-systems that practically care for themselves with minimal upkeep required.
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Increase home value – Water features can increase a home’s value by as much as 15%, and ponds add even more curb appeal.
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Customizable – Ponds can be designed for spaces big or small. Choose from preformed shells, liners, waterfalls, fountains, lights, and more.
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Fun hobby – Caring for pond plants and fish is an engaging hobby the whole family can enjoy.
How to Turn a Water Feature into a Pond
Follow these steps to successfully convert your water feature into a gorgeous pond:
Step 1: Plan and Design
- Determine the pond location, shape, and size based on your yard space.
- Decide which pond elements you want like waterfalls, fountains, lights, etc.
- Choose pond liner material: preformed shell, plastic liner, or rubber liner.
- Pick pumps, filters, and accessories like pond skimmers.
Step 2: Prepare the Site
- Mark out the pond area with spray paint or stakes.
- Remove grass and plants from the pond area.
- Dig out and shape the pond hole to desired size and depth.
Step 3: Install Pond Liner
- For plastic liners, secure underlayment into hole.
- Place liner over underlayment, allowing enough slack.
- Trim off excess liner, leaving enough for coping stones.
Step 4: Build Waterfalls and Fountains
- Construct waterfalls and fountain features as desired with rocks or blocks.
- Install pumps, tubing, and filtration as needed.
- Test water flow before proceeding.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
- Place coping stones around pond edges to hide liner.
- Decorate with rocks, gravel, plants, lights, and other accessories.
- Introduce fish and floating plants to establish pond ecosystem.
Pond Supplies Checklist
Here are the essential supplies needed for converting a water feature into a pond:
- Pond liner (preformed, plastic, or rubber)
- Underlayment for plastic liners
- Pumps and tubing
- Filters and skimmers
- Lighting
- Decorative rocks and gravel
- Coping stones
- Aquatic plants
- Pond fish like koi or goldfish
Pond Design Inspiration
Converting a simple water feature into a pond opens up tons of possibilities. Here are some gorgeous pond design ideas to inspire your backyard oasis:
Natural Looking Pond
This pond uses stacked stone edges and a gravel bottom to achieve a natural look. Ferns, lilies, and other plants enhance the nature theme. Adding a small waterfall and fountain complete the serene scene.
Pondless Waterfall
A pondless waterfall circulates water from a hidden reservoir underneath. This is a dramatic focal point that avoids pond maintenance. Uplights illuminate the cascading water at night.
Formal Garden Pond
This rectangular pond with symmetrical edges and fountain has a formal look. Decorative urns, clipped shrubs, and an arched bridge complement the structured shape.
Patio Pond
Small above-ground and container ponds like this raised circular design are perfect for patios. Potted marginal plants add interest while keeping the pond compact.
Koi Pond
Koi ponds need a minimum depth of 2-3 feet. This pond uses a preformed shell with rock edges for larger koi. A wooden bridge invites closer views of the colorful fish.
FAQs About Converting Water Features into Ponds
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about transforming water features into pondscapes:
How much does it cost to convert a water feature to a pond?
Pond conversion costs range from $500-$5000 depending on the size and features. Prefab pond kits tend to be more affordable.
What size pump do I need?
Choose a pump that can recirculate all the water at least once per hour. Bigger ponds need more powerful pumps.
How deep should the pond be?
Depths of 18-24 inches are typical for small ponds. Deeper ponds stay cooler in summer. Go 2-3 feet deep for koi.
What kind of liner is best?
Plastic and rubber liners are easiest for DIY installs. Preformed shells create instant ponds but offer less flexibility.
How many fish can my pond support?
Plan for 1 inch of fish per 10 gallons of water. So a 500 gallon pond can humanely support about 50 inches of fish.
Do I need filtration?
Yes! Filtration keeps pond water clear and healthy for fish. Skimmers also remove debris.
Transform Your Backyard with a Gorgeous Pond
Converting your water feature into a pond is an extremely rewarding DIY project. A pond creates an enticing focal point in your landscape that will bring you joy for years to come. With proper planning and preparation, you can successfully upgrade your water feature into a oasis ponds in just a weekend. Just follow the steps outlined here to turn your backyard into a private paradise. The peace and beauty a pond brings are well worth the effort. Soon you’ll have a gorgeous new pond to enjoy morning coffee by as you listen to the tranquil gurgling water and birdsong.
