Location selection

Finding the optimal location of the future reservoir in the garden is an important stage in the preparation of the project. Despite the fact that it will perform an exclusively decorative function, a natural ecological system must be organized around it to prevent it from turning into a swamp.

However, being close to deciduous trees will result in the pond being covered with a layer of fallen leaves in autumn.

Plants need light to grow, so make sure the location you choose gets enough light. At the same time, it should not be too much.

In the heat, the water in the pond can overheat, which stimulates the active reproduction of algae and negatively affects other inhabitants of the pond. Ideally, the sun’s rays should fall into the pond in the first or second half of the day, but not less than five hours a day.

It’s great if there is an unused slide on the site: the greater the slope of the terrain, the more spectacular the result will be. This is the perfect place to form a cascade.

On the other hand, the location in lower areas will allow you to fully enjoy the beautiful view, and the sun will dry it out more slowly.

Another advantage of the chosen place will be a beautiful reflection in the water, for example, surrounding plants or decorative objects.

The type of soil imposes its own restrictions on the device of a decorative reservoir. Loamy, clay and peaty soil are the most suitable options. Chernozem contributes to the formation of silt. The organization of a pond on acidic soil must necessarily include the protection of the side walls and bottom.

Design choice

A decorative pond does not have to be a pond at all. Creating a small fountain or artificial waterfall will take a little longer, but the result will be worth it.

An ornamental pond is the simplest and most versatile type of pond, suitable for almost any site. The abundance of plants, including aquatic ones, will help to emphasize its purpose. Show your imagination by creating amazing compositions that catch your eye.

Streams and cascades are most spectacular in relief areas. The water in them is constantly moving, and the cascade, due to the steps, resembles a small waterfall with a characteristic noise. On a flat area, you can organize a channel. The flow of water in it is slower, and it is wider. Do not forget that the water in such reservoirs gradually evaporates, keep an eye on its volume.

An interesting solution is the creation of a small swamp. Its depth usually does not exceed 30 cm. An excellent option for a low-lying and wet area. In this case, you don’t even have to make an effort: dig a hole of a suitable shape and depth and wait until it fills up with water. You need to decorate the swamp with swamp plants.

An even more miniature body of water is called a “marsh flower bed”. Its depth does not exceed 10 cm. According to its name, it is filled with decorative shallow-water and coastal plants. A «flower bed» can be arranged in a container made of fireclay or wood with waterproofing. A container made of concrete with an interesting texture will look stylish.

The fountain can act as an independent reservoir or be installed in an existing one. There are submersible and floating models. Original fountains in the form of figurines of animals, people and others will be a magnificent decoration of a pond in the country. Caution: A fountain that splashes water heavily can harm aquatic plants.

There is no water in a “dry” reservoir: it is replaced by other means, among which there may be plants and even stones. An “alternative” to water will be inexpensive and lightweight black polycarbonate. Here you can and should experiment: a “stream” of pebbles, a “lake” of flowers, a “pond” of polyethylene film.

Blue flowers (ageratum, salvia, forget-me-not, bluebells, etc.) will help to imitate water. Land them so that you get «waves». Finish the composition with shells and pebbles. An interesting addition would be a small bridge.

Choice of size and shape

Of course, the larger the pond, the more spectacular it will look. There is a small rule: it should occupy at least 1/5 of the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe look. Start from the angle with the most complete view.

It is not advisable to choose an area of ​​less than 3 m2, since natural water purification will not occur on it. However, if the water is in motion, this rule can be omitted.

Depth up to 50 cm is considered small. A minimum of 80 cm is required if you want to place fish in the pond. A frost-free pond (which does not require draining water for the winter) must have a depth of at least 1.2 m.

It is better to choose the form based on the style of the garden. A round pond will suit the English landscape. The regular style implies geometric shapes, while the irregular ones will fit the oriental style: Chinese or Japanese. The main thing is that it complements the landscape, and not contrasts with it.

materials

For a small reservoir (up to 5 m2), plastic bowls are often used. Installing it is not difficult, and it will serve for a long time. The disadvantage of the finished bowl is the shape and small volume invented by the manufacturer for you.

The waterproofing film is suitable for those who create a pond on an individual project.

Polyvinyl chloride, aka black PVC, is the most common option. Its plus is that it is easily repaired with ordinary glue.

Polyethylene is cheaper, but less elastic and durable. You can fix it with self-adhesive tape.

The thickness of the butyl rubber film is selected based on the depth of the pond. If it is less than 80 cm, the thickness can be 0.8 mm, otherwise — 1.2-1.5 mm. It is easy to mask the extra edges along the coastline with ordinary stones.

It is convenient to place a geometric pond in a concrete pit. The disadvantage of this choice is the complexity of the installation, requiring experience with concrete.

Photo of a decorative reservoir