The construction of garden ponds is not simply an aesthetic choice, but can also play a functional role in the creation of a natural ecosystem in miniature, for example by creating a refuge for some animal species. Over time, a pond can require rather limited maintenance: of course it is essential to keep it clean, especially as regards the formation of algae. Let’s see, therefore, some tips and suggestions to create garden ponds able to combine practicality and aesthetics. The ideal position, with respect to the sun, should be the one facing south, or even better south-west: in practice, exposed to the sun but not completely, since water with an excessively hot temperature would risk causing a harmful proliferation of algae. In short, it is preferable to calculate that, during the day, one third of the water surface is in the shade, for example protected by a fairly tall building or simply by a group of trees. It would also be advisable to establish a point with respect to which the pond is more visible, so as to be able to take advantage of the view and the panorama from the terrace or even from inside the house. Before proceeding with the realization, it is good to design and plan the dimensions and conformation of the whole, drawing on paper and keeping in mind the work that you want to do.

Furthermore, the bureaucratic aspects should not be underestimated, given that in many Italian municipalities, specific permits are required to proceed with the work. The shape of the pond must be designed in such a way as to fit harmoniously with the surrounding context, as well as the eventual presence of streams, bridges, waterfalls and lighting systems. Lower plants could be placed in the front, while taller plant species could find space farther away. An aspect to take into consideration is linked to the depth of the water, which means that in winter the ice does not affect the bottom, and at the same time that in summer the surface is not too hot. In general, a depth of one meter is desirable for a total area of ​​ten square meters. For the entry of water, it is necessary to foresee the connection to a downspout. In order to prevent mud from being created in the garden due to rainwater, it is essential to manage the overflow, for example by creating a connection with the clear water well, or by asking the town hall for permission to introduce clear water into the municipal canalization. Alternatively, you can opt for a drainage, which can be done by filling a hole at least one meter deep with stones and gravel. A final possible solution is to create a trench around the pond, about forty centimeters deep and half a meter wide.

Naturally, for the placement of filters, pumps and lamps it must be taken into account that the pipes for the electrical cables must be present. The choice of plants is also an important moment in the decision-making process, also because the need to create planting niches depends on it. Equal attention must be paid to the type of material to be used. In general, prefabricated tanks are small, which have the advantage of not requiring special or demanding work, and therefore can be used without problems even by a private individual. The laying of a sheet is more complicated, but it is able to adapt easily to the excavation and allows you to create any shape.

Once the planning is complete, you can proceed with the excavation work, starting to trace, by staking, the shape of the pond on the ground. Do not forget the excavations for drainage, for the connection to the ducts and for all the electrical cables provided. Once the excavation phase has been completed, any object that could represent an obstacle or otherwise create problems must be removed: roots, stones, etc. The sand is then laid, which must be followed by an anti-rodent net to protect against mice and moles that could pierce the cloth with a certain ease. The upper layer will be made of felt: you can choose between felt weighing half a kilo per square meter, which is finer (ideal if, during excavations, you encounter rock), and felt weighing eight hundred grams per square meter, which is thicker. . Finally, it will be the turn of a waterproof sheet: a sheet that can be easily repaired and welded, not only for any repairs but above all to possibly enlarge the pond. A very good solution consisting of the Sarnafil type, but nothing prevents you from ordering a tailor-made sheet, taking care of the measurements in collaboration with the supplier company. Furthermore, we must take into account that the sheet will be more elastic during a hot day, and therefore can be spread more easily. After the cloth, a net must be applied in order to prevent gravel from falling on the bottom of the pond. In conclusion, it is necessary to specify that any bridges must be made above a stone or concrete block, with a distance of seven centimeters maximum from the water.