Size:
The size of your garden depends on several factors. An “average” pond 10 feet wide x 12 feet in length and about 2 feet deep holds roughly 2000 gallons, which affects the size of pumps and piping needed for recirculating water.
- Area and configuration of your yard
- Time available for maintenance
- Budget
- Water source
- Pump and filtration capacity
- Diversity of plants desired
Location:
- The topography and slope of your land will affect the cost and effort of building anything but a small container garden.
- Avoid potential discharge to nearby water bodies and wetlands, which may be protected by local, state or federal rules.
- Check for the location of utility lines
Depth:
Unlike fish ponds, shallow water gardens are desirable; deeper ponds may present a safety hazard and require permits and fencing/barriers. The depth will affect your choice of plants (see Species Selection)
Bottom options:
The type of soil in your yard will determine whether a natural bottom pond will hold water or if you need a liner (rubber or plastic) for water retention, such as in sandy soil.
Sun/shade:
The amount of shade determines plant selection, but typically water gardens need a minimum of 6 hours of daylight. Full sun throughout the day is more likely to encourage weed growth (including algae).
Water quality:
- Flow-through systems will maintain if adequate water source
- Pumps/filters sized accordingly
- For static ponds, circulation/aeration an option
- Repuable piping and plumbing
Fish:
Various species are used in water gardens with koi and goldfish among the more popular. However, some species like koi are not compatible with aquatic plants.
Berms/swales:
If your pond will be in a low lying or flood prone area, it may need banks, diversion ditches or other barriers to keep rising water out and contain pond inhabitants during extreme rain events.