Pond Fountain
Building ponds - complete with a pond fountain and fish pond heaters (if necessary) - can be quite a rewarding experience, especially if you go about it in a methodical, knowledgeable manner. Here are some tips that just might help you along the way.
First decide whether your pond will be primarily for fish (like koi, for instance), for growing and displaying aquatic plants, or simply for the relaxing sounds of a pond fountain or waterfall. If you want fish, you'll need to have a much larger pond than if you just want plants or an environment solely for the water-based music of a fountain or waterfall.
If you've decided that the fountain/waterfall is your main concern, then the next thing to consider is where you'll locate your pond. Unless you habitually visit the outermost parts of your property, it's best to keep a pond near your home. Being able to look out on a winter day to enjoy the wildlife that visit your pond during times when you don't will be a positive factor.
When building the fountain, keep in mind how large you want it to be. Small fountains will work for both small and large ponds, but the sound decreases with the size. You will most likely want to have a fountain large enough to be heard over the sounds of neighbor kids playing, lawn mowers, and other such intrusions.
The fountain - the main focal point of your pond - can be built yourself or purchased. If you're handy with an acetylene torch, you can get quite elaborate with designs that include copper tubing, slate, and other organic materials. There are also thousands of Web sites specializing in the creation of fabulous water-garden fountains of every size, shape, and design conceivable.
Your best bet in building a pond with a fountain is to spend some time online looking at the creations of others. The Internet experience can give you an in-depth understanding of what it takes to build a pond – often with the same or similar specifications you may already have in mind.
You'll find some fascinating ideas, and it won't be long before you succumb to the irresistible urge to go out and build your own fountain and surrounding pond. And then you can relax - and enjoy the soothing sounds of water music, fish (if you so choose), and the imitable beauty of aquatic plant life.
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