Small Outdoor Garden Ponds

If you don't have the space for a large pond in the ground, you can construct a miniature pond in a container. They're moveable, easy to set up, and they don't cost very much.

Anything that holds water can be used. A barrel lined with plastic, plastic tubs, ceramic pots, old bathtubs, or basins.You could build a wood box of any shape and size that you want and put a liner inside of it. The interior should be a dark color to discourage algae growth.

If you want to have fish it would be best if the container is at least 25 gallons. The water conditions will be better for the fish and the pond will heat up and cool down slower.

The plants will need at least 3 hours of direct sunlight to bloom, but they should not have full sun all the time. The water will get hot.

Fill the container with water, then add the rocks and plants. If you don't use a pond pump or filter, you will need mosquito control. Fish can be used. Gambusia, the mosquito fish or goldfish.

Floating plants stay on top of the water with their roots below. They provide shade and control algae. In cold climates they need to be taken indoors for the winter, or replaced.

Submerged plants are entirely under the water. They are important for a balanced pond.

Water lilies are the most popular pond plants.

Some good pond fish are; Fancy Goldfish, Comets, and Shubunkins. Mosquito Fish, White Cloud Mountain Minnow, Japanese Rice Fish, and Rosy Barb. They are all compatible with each other.

Things to consider about adding fish:

Chlorine- Wait a few days before adding the fish.
Water Temperature- Float the bag in the pond and slowly release the fish.
Jumpers- Some fish will jump.
Predators- Provide hiding places.

Make your pond as childproof as possible, and don't leave children unattended near a pond. Provide an easy way to climb out of large ponds that are built in the ground. Check your local building codes. You may be required to put a fence around your pond or do other things for safety. Check about underground utility lines when you are ready to dig.