How to Build a Koi Pond
An outdoor pond can be one of the most visually appealling and relaxing garden features. Building an outdoor fish pond doesn't not to be a strenous or arduous task. It can be very easy with the correct equipment and the right know how.
Firstly, deciding on the right place for your Koi fish to call home is the most difficult. You want a spot where you can see the pond from a variety of areas. For example - the Gazebo, outdoor entertaining area, an upstairs window of your house. So decide on a location where you can see your beloved Koi from a variety of angles. Also, ensure that your pond also gets some shade as Koi don't like to be in the sun all day.
The next thing to do is to decide on the size of your pond. Since you are building a pond for Koi fish, it needs to be large. Koi fish like their space and become stressed if they don't have enough. Generally you cannot have more than 20 full size Koi in a 2000 gallon pond. Most people build their ponds big enough to hold 10000 to 50000 gallons.
Once you have decided the parameters of your pond, you will have to mark the perimeter with some rope or hosepipe. You will then need to dig out the area using suitable equipment. Remove any sharp stones.
You will want to dig your Koi fish pond to a depth of at least 4 feet. At this depth it will keep the raccoons out and at 8 feet, it will make life difficult for the herons to make your Koi fish dinner.
Next, you will want to lay a base for your Koi fish pond. You can choose to lay concrete down or a layer of sand. Place your pond liner over your pond. Make sure your pond liner is dark as this makes the colors of your Koi more enjoyable to see. When your liner is in place, hold it down with some carefully placed bricks on the edge. Make sure there is enough overlap to place turf or other materials.
Fill your pond with water, and keep pulling the pond liner as to make sure it fits correctly.
Next, buy a proper sized water pump, filtration system and an ultraviolet light sterilizer. If you are in a cold climate, you may want to consider a gas heater for your Koi fish. Your Koi will not eat or grow when the water is too cold.
Happy building!
