Step by Step DIY Guide on How to Install Your Own Flexible Liner Pond

Creating your own pond does not have to be too complicated. With a few easy to follow DIY steps and a bit of sweat, you can be relaxing in your own back yard, beside your very on water garden, in no time. This project only took me and my husband one day to complete.

First, clear the ground in and around the area where you plan to install your pond, removing all grass, sod and debris using a flat head shovel or tiller.

Second, lay out a water hose, thick rope or drop cord to create the shape and form of your pond. (A flowing form gives more of a natural look.)

Third, using a dark spray paint, spray your shape on the ground then remove the hose, rope or drop cord.

Forth, dig out the hole of your pond (typically only two or three feet at the deepest point), leaving a twelve inch wide shelf about six or eight inches from the top inside perimeter of the hole for a plants. Smooth all inside surfaces as much as possible, removing all rocks and humps.

Fifth, level the top edge of your pond, extending out one or two feet by placing a level on a board that is long enough to stretch across the widest point. Reposition the board in many different directions to ensure that is level all around. Add or remove soil as needed.

Sixth, spread a layer of sand across the plant shelf and the bottom of the pond. Pack the sand as much as possible. Note: Slightly dropping a 12x12in. stepping stone all around, works well for packing sand.

Seventh, loosely place the flexible liner in your hole and position it to conform to your inside shape. Place rocks or stones on the liner that overhangs the outside edge to help hold the liner in place. Note: Most flexible liners can be found at garden or pool supply centers.

Eighth, place a thin, smooth layer of pea gravel on the plant shelf and in the bottom of your pond. This will give you a good base for positing plants and will give your pond a more natural look.

Ninth, slowly fill your pond with water, repositioning your top rocks or stones to allow the liner to settle in as the water pushes it in to its final position.

Tenth, after your pond is full of water, trim the excess outside liner, leaving five inches of overhang. Secure the excess liner to the ground by using long galvanized nails spaced close together. Line the outer edge of your pond with the stone of your choice, allowing it to overhang the pond lip by one and a half inches for a more natural look.

Eleventh, secure your overhanging stone with a mortar mix to ensure it doesn’t fall in the pond and damage the liner, plants or animals. Note: A DIY mortar mix is available at all home improvement stores.

Twelfth, add a fountain or waterfall to circulate your water, preventing stagnate and sour water.

Note: A pond fountain or waterfall is a must. It is the only way your pond can support any type of life, whether it be plant or animal and helps to prevent potential disease infested water. Fountains and waterfalls can be found at most garden, pool and home improvement stores. Follow specific requirements and directions listed on each water feature.

*Water will need to be add from time to time due to evaporation and usage of plant and animal life.

*Certain steps must be taken before adding animals to your pond to ensure their health and survival. For more information on adding animal life to your pond, contact your animal provider.


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