How to build a pond that will hold up in Fl weather.

[jodrig74]

Hi, Im new here and was sort of looking for some info on building a pond. Im building it next to my front entrance and would love for it to make a statement.I want something really modern and and a bit japanese in style .(Im studying interior design so Im kind of picky on making sure its going to look beautiful ) I would really like something in a square or rectangular shape but Im having a hard time finding something preformed in the size I want. I also want to know what I would need to be able to house some fish, aquatic plants and maybe some turtles.(I promised my son) I know a bit about taking care of fish, I owned some freshwater tanks as a kid and now I have two saltwater fishtanks. Im a bit nervous at trying this because this is outside and I live in Miami where the heat is just too much to bare.Im hoping someone here can help this newbie. Any opinions will be greatly apreciated.Thanks

 

[Dr Joe]

Welcome jodrig74.

Make the pond rectangular 3ft-4ft deep with an EPDM liner, with a couple of these http://www.pondliner.com/PondmasterFilters.htm filters for easy maintenance (at least one fountain for aeration). Don't overdo the amount of fish or turtles and it will be low maintenance. Just pay attention to W/C's with the turtles.

Use of the oriental rock/sand garden effect around it and a couple of Japanese umbrellas to shade the water and maybe a bamboo screen at the back will give you a good look.

Use painted concrete blocks to set plants on in center of pond rather than trying to make shelves into the sides.

Floating lilies and cattails potted in medium side gravel are a best bet for plants.

Dr Joe

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