Small Backyard Pond Ideas

• A decorative backyard pond can be a focal point in your landscaping plan. Design Pics/Valueline/Getty Images

  A backyard pond can add to your landscape décor and provide a tranquil setting for relaxation in your garden. Homes without the space for a large backyard pond can still get the benefits with a smaller water area. You can create waterfalls or fill your pond with fish and plants for a serene backyard environment.

Waterfalls

• The soothing sounds of water falling in your backyard can reduce much of the stress of everyday life. Building your own waterfall and pond provides you with a great place to relax and enjoy the natural sound of water. You can purchase a do-it-yourself kit or build the pond and waterfall with materials you purchase separately. Hiring professional installers can ensure that your waterfall flows properly. The rocks must be strategically placed to keep the water flowing into the pond. Moving water also helps to eliminate the problem of mosquitoes with backyard ponds.

Fish

• Stocking a small pond with fish creates an interesting and natural environment to enjoy in your backyard. When choosing the fish for your small pond you should ensure the species you select can tolerate the higher temperatures of summer such as one of the many varieties of gold fish. Backyard ponds can heat up excessively in the summer sun. You may require a heater for your fish, if you live in a cold climate. Some homeowners save on the cost of a heater by bringing the fish indoors to an aquarium during the colder months. The backyard pond with fish also requires filter and scavengers such as tadpoles to keep the pond free of algae.

Plant Life

• When selecting the plant life for your backyard pond, consider using a mixture of submergent, emergent and floating species to add variety. Submergent plants exist under the water in the pond and can oxygenate the water. Emergent plants have roots under the water, but also float on the surface of the pond; for example, water lilies and cattails. The plants that you select should be able to withstand the environment in your backyard pond. For example, some plants require a 2-to-3-foot depth to survive in a backyard pond. Consider the amount of sunlight your pond receives as well as the average temperature in your area, when determining location and plant life.