Preformed Pond Shapes

Ponds come in many shapes and sizes, I particularly like the kidney shaped version of this preformed rubberised plastic.
Cheaper versions are now on the market made from blown plastic that is not as rigid but is suitable for smaller preformed shapes.
Of course if you want a bespoke shape you can use Butyl liners, fiberglass, concrete or even clay.

Tips For Installing Ponds

• Avoid sharp edges and stones by lining the base of the hole with sand.
• Beware the weight of water will push a preformed pond deeper so make sure the base is firm and well packed.
• Ensure the pond is level as the water will highlight any errors, slopping over one side and leaving a gap at the other.
• Make a beach area at the edge of the pond so wild life can access the water without needing to jump off the rim or edge.

Tips from Wildwoods

‘The pond should be positioned where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Do not site the pond beneath trees or overhanging foliage. Our fibreglass ponds are strong enough to be free standing as long as they are adequately supported under the base and beneath shelves. They can be sunk in the ground or raised within a brick or block work surround according to your preference.

Installation of sunken ponds

1. Place the pond the right way up on the ground and mark the outline with a piece of rope or garden hose.
2. Dig the hole an inch deeper than the pond and several inches larger all round. Ensure that the surface is level using a spirit level on a plank of wood.
3. Line the base with soft sand to bring it up to the correct depth and ensure a smooth level base.
4. Place the pond in the hole and fill with about six inches of water to hold it firmly in place.
5. Backfill around the sides with sand or sifted soil, making sure it is well packed under any shelves.
6. Periodically check that the surface of the pond is still level in all directions.
7. The pond should be filled and allowed to settle for at least 7 days before any edging is applied.
8. Finish with paving slabs, rocks or turf as required.

Raised ponds must be enclosed within a suitably strong structure and the space between the walls and the pond should be back-filled with sand or sifted soil.’

Read Fish for Ponds
New for Ponds and Renovation Tips
Amazon supply some preformed ponds.

Cheap Pond Tip

• I have several small ponds made fro burried containers.
• The best is an old plastic dustbin but you could use a pedal bin or any container that is at least 12″ deep.
• Do not worry about cloudy water you can spend a fortune on chemicals and still have unclean but natural water.