No matter how big or small your garden is, a pond adds an extra dimension to it. Not only do ponds reflect light, they also encourage wildlife and offer a wider range of planting opportunities. Still ponds are restful and contemplative, while the 'tinkling' water of a fountain revives the spirits. Nevertheless, a pond - even a very shallow one - can be extremely dangerous to your children and pets. If your children are very young, the pond should be surrounded by a safety fence to prevent accidents.
You can make a pond using a flexible or rigid liner. Rigid, prefabricated ponds are quick and easy to install and they come in a wide choice of shapes and sizes complete with moulded plastic planting shelves to suit most water plants. All you need to do is dig a hole to accommodate the mould, ensure the mould is level, back fill around it with soil and fill it with water and plants. Flexible plastic liners, on the other hand, allow you to design your own individually shaped and sized ponds.
Ponds should be located away from large trees as fallen leaves will collect in them, rot and be harmful to any fish. Instead, choose an open, semi-shaded, level spot, but remember you'll need to be close to a water supply for filling and topping up the pond in summer. Measure and mark out the site with string, or use sand trickled from a plastic bottle.
