Nymphaea Fidelity » Installing a preformed pond

What is a preformed pond? A preformed pond is a hard shell pond liner that has been pre-molded into a particular shape. Often times they are constructed out of plastic or fiberglass. They are useful for locations with loose soil that would otherwise collapse if had used a flexible EPDM liner.

Planning

First, you will want to think about a location. Consider the space available as preformed ponds start from about 2 feet in diameter and go up. Opt for a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Ensure that the location is away from trees so as to avoid falling foliage and roots. Also, be sure that the location is level, is not in a low point in your yard, and that there aren't any electrical or irrigation related materials underground.

Next do some research into local prices while keeping your budget in mind. Many major home improvement stores will carry preformed ponds. Your local pond supply store many also carry them. When in doubt, choose the largest possible pond as you'll be much happier and maintenance will be easier. When I was a hobbyist, I acquired a 160 gallon preformed pond from the Home Depot.

Now gather the supplies. You'll need some shovels, a level, a friend, etc.

Preparing the location

Place the pond in the spot where you plan on having it installed. Try different positions and choose the best view for you. Where will you be sitting? Did you want to view the pond outside a window? Once you are satisfied, use a garden hose to outline the shape of the pond; you could also use turf spray paint. Then set the pond aside but keep it nearby.

Digging the hole

Think about a few things before you start digging. Is there good grass in that spot? Could you repair areas of your yard using that grass? Next, where will the dirt go? We recommend getting a tarp to put the dirt on. Remember that you'll need some of the dirt to back fill around the preformed pond but the majority can be used elsewhere in your yard.

Now it is time to start digging. Start from the middle and work your way out. Remove any thick roots or rocks or foreign objects that could cause a headache. Every now and then you want to place the preformed pond in the hole to check your accuracy. If there are ledges, keep those in mind. If there are issues with removing rocks, carpet padding could be useful. Remember that you will need to ensure the bottom is level. You could use sand to help you with any leveling troubles.

Installing the preformed pond

Once the hole bottom is level, place the pond in the hole.Next, get a hose and turn it on low and place the end in the pond (do not be concerned with dirt falling in pond--you will need to drain and refill after completing installation). Simultaneously as the pond is being filled, you will want to use the dirt to firmly back fill while ensuring the entire pond is level.This is why you should have the hose on low and work slowly and carefully. If needed take a break so your mind is clear and you can be re-energized!

Post installation

After the pond is completely filled, you'll want to leave it for a couple days to settle. During this time, you'll want to think about if you will want a fountain. Is there a GFCI outlet nearby? If not you could bury an outdoor extension cord that runs from a covered GFCI outlet to the pond. If this is not possible, all hope is not lost as there are solar powered fountains. You can also move most of the remaining dirt to other locations in your yard. After this waiting period, back fill the pond with remaining soil if needed. Next do your best to remove the dirt that has fallen into the pond--a fine next should work well. Then drain the pond completely and refill and all to sit for a day so the chlorine will disappear. Alternatively, you could use a product to remove the chlorine quickly.

Making the preformed pond your own

If using a fountain / filter, you may now connect it. Next you'll want to accessorize. Add some landscape rock. We also added spillways to help with circulation.

Help the preformed pond cycle!

All new ponds go through a cycle stage of green water but you can minimize this by adding plants right away! Head down to your local pond supply store or order some plants online. You'll need to aim for 60-70% surface coverage. Examples of aquatic plants for your preformed pond include:

• Tropical water lilies: N. 'Star of Zanzibar', N. 'Foxfire', N. 'Alexis', N. 'Blue Aster', N. 'King of Siam', N. 'Avalanche', N. 'Lindsey Woods', N. 'Ambrosia', N. 'Albert Greenberg', N. 'William Mclane'
• Submerged plants: Anacharis, Najas Grass, Cabomba, Hornwort
• Marginal/Bog plants: Dwarf Egyptian Payprus, Lime Zinger Taro, Corkscrew Rush, Umbrella Palm, Spider Lily, Bluebell, Parrot's Feather
• Lily-like aquatics: Mosaic Plant, Floating Heart, White Snowflake
• Floating plants: Water Lettuce, Duckweed, Frogbit, Sensitive Vine (large leaf), Water Hyacinth

Note: Please check your local regulations regarding aquatic plants. Some are illegal in some states!

After allowing plants to settle, you may now put some fish in. Goldfish are highly recommended. Koi are not! These ecosystems are far too small to support koi.

Enjoy Your Investment

You'll find yourself changing things about the pond. You may wish to add accessories such as lighting--just be sure you do your research so you don't waste money! Join online water garden forums and connect with fellow pond enthusiasts and water gardeners across the world.