A small pond or water feature can transform your outdoor space into a peaceful oasis. The sights and sounds of moving water create a relaxing ambiance that helps reduce stress. Ponds and fountains also provide habitat for birds frogs, dragonflies and other wildlife. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy these benefits even if you only have a compact garden.
Key Elements to Consider When Designing Small Ponds and Water Features
Location – Pick a visible spot near a patio, deck or walkway so you can fully appreciate the water feature. Ensure access to utilities for the pump and filter. Consider sunlight patterns so aquatic plants can flourish.
Size and Shape – Customize the pond dimensions and contours to your space. Small ponds can be circular, kidney-shaped, rectangular or freeform. Mini-ponds in pots work well for patios. Opt for wide shallow areas for marginal plants. Include a deeper section for fish.
Edging Materials – Blend the pond edges into your landscape. Rounded river rocks or weathered boulders create a natural look. mortared stone, landscape timbers and paving stones provide structure. Line the bottom with an EPDM rubber liner.
Water Source – Tap water works for most backyard ponds. Dechlorinating products remove chemicals. Use a fill valve with filter to automatically maintain water levels.
Pumps and Filters – A recirculating pump moves water to create the waterfall and fountain effects. Choose an appropriately sized pump and external canister filter to keep the water clean and prevent algae.
Plants – Floating and marginal plants enhance ponds while offering sanctuary for wildlife. Popular choices include water lilies, irises, canna, corkscrew rush and umbrella palm. Group plants in clusters for visual impact.
Gorgeous Design Ideas for Small Ponds and Fountains
From simple reflecting pools to cascading rock waterfalls, there are countless options to embellish your landscape with the magic of water. Here are some stunning design concepts:
Rustic Millstone Fountain – Accent a shaded garden retreat with a weathered millstone converted into a babbling fountain. Encircle with ferns and wildflowers. The soothing sounds transport you to the countryside.
Container Water Garden – For patios, deck a medium ceramic pot with marginal plants like horsetail reed and creeping Jenny. Add a small recirculating pump to create a pleasing fountain.
Fish Pond with Brick Edging – Define a geometric pond shape with a soldier course brick border. Plant water lilies and fill with brightly-colored koi. Add large rocks to create small cascades.
Pondless Waterfall – This re-circulating waterfall does not have an actual pond. Water tumbles over natural boulders into a hidden reservoir. It’s an easy care option for small yards.
Tiered Fountain – For a contemporary look, install a multi-level pre-formed fountain. Surround with pea gravel and river rocks. The sound of falling water masks street noise.
Japanese Tea Garden – Invoke tranquility with granite stepping stones, bamboo accents and ornate fountains. Water hyacinth and umbrella palm flourish in the lush conditions.
Maintaining Small Ponds and Fountains
While larger ecosystems require more specialized care, small water features only need periodic maintenance to stay healthy and visually appealing:
-
Clean filters monthly to remove accumulated organic debris and keep circulation robust.
-
Prune back plants in spring and fall to prevent overcrowding. Remove fallen leaves and dead foliage promptly.
-
Use beneficial bacteria and enzyme products to control algae growth and decompose waste.
-
Top off water weekly to replace losses from evaporation and splashing. Drops in water level stress fish.
-
Wash rocks and statuary as needed with pond cleaner to prevent calcium buildup. Scrub pumps free of slime.
-
In cold climates, install a pond de-icer to maintain open areas for gas exchange in winter. Move tropical plants indoors.
With a bit of regular upkeep, small ponds and fountains provide years of beauty and tranquility. The soothing presence of water can do wonders for relaxation and connection with nature. Let your imagination run wild in designing a custom water feature to transform your landscape into a personal sanctuary. The possibilities are truly endless.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/wfigjm8_art-3ab8d8c95f6647ed96b55aedbc06c985.jpeg)
Calculating Your Pond’s Size
Another useful tool weve created is our pond calculator tool. One of the key factors in determining which system will work best for your pond or lake is knowing its acreage and surface area. From there you can decide the horsepower size of the unit youd like to purchase. We set up the pond sizing calculator to do all the work in pairing you with a product thats perfect for you, try it out!
What are the Benefits of Pond Fountains?
Floating pond and lake fountains are beneficial to all aquatic life, because they replenish the often lacking oxygen levels in stagnant pond water. Circulating your pond or lakes water is one of the first and most effective ways to implement a proactive healthy pond management strategy. A few of the many benefits to adding a pond fountain to your pond or lake includes: algae and muck reduction, decrease in population of pesky insects like mosquitos, improved water quality, and a gorgeous water feature!
Aquascape AquaBasin® for Fountains and Water Features
FAQ
How to keep a small pond full of water?
- Use Surface Water.
- Drill a Well.
- Spring Supplied.
- Dam It Up.
How to make a waterfall for a small pond?
- Build Your Pond.
- Decide on the Waterfall Design.
- Build the Top Reservoir Area.
- Create Waterfall Steps and Waterfall Drop.
- Add Waterfall Pump and Tubing.
- Lay Underlayment and Liner.
- Add Rocks and Gravel.
- Test Your Waterfall.
Will a fountain oxygenate a pond?
Aerators, such as fountains and aspirators, are typically used in surface aeration. These not only oxygenate the water but also add a visual appeal. Fountains work well for medium-sized ponds and create a dramatic display, while aspirators are more subtle but equally effective at increasing oxygen levels.
What should I put in my small pond?
You can add plants, frogs, newts, snails, and even small turtles to your pond. These creatures can create a balanced ecosystem and enhance the natural beauty of your pond.
What makes a small pond unique?
This striking small pond has several special features that set it apart. Its straight edges are easy on the eyes and refocus one’s attention on the more complex elements. A stone tile path cuts across the pond, yet serves as a cohesive feature as the individual tiles appear to float on the water’s surface.
What is a small pond with a waterfall?
A small pond with a waterfall makes for a serene addition to any yard. Ponds with waterfalls bring a multi-sensory experience to your outdoor space by creating reflections, movement, and sound. They are an ideal solution for smaller properties that don’t have space for a pool.
Do Ponds need to be large?
Ponds need not be large to be wholly beneficial. Even a modest strip of water or a small pool can be turned into a statement focal point in the garden or home. Below are some creative pond ideas to help you create your own personal oasis. Small Garden Pond Decor quiddle. / CC BY-SA 2.0
What is a beautiful pond design?
This beautiful pond design includes a stone wall backdrop made with pavers, and stairs on either side inset into the landscape. There’s a small waterfall, statuary and attractive plantings including colorful perennials like bright purple Siberian irises, spireas, peonies and heucheras. Fill your pond with textural plants for a natural look.
What is a good pond for a patio?
If you’re really short on space, an above ground pond like this one would be perfect for a balcony, deck, courtyard or patio. It includes a pump, LED waterfall light, clay growing media and decorative gravel. 15.
Which Pond is best for small fish?
Some of these ponds are ideal for small fish, while others are wildlife ponds that will attract birds, frogs, lizards and many other types of wildlife to your backyard. This post contains affiliate links. Please read the disclosure for more info. 1. Small Rectangle Koi Pond