Make a small pond in the country with your own hands. DIY raised pond

A good decoration for a summer house or garden is a pond. Many are trying to bring the landscape of their land closer to the natural. Water has magical properties and always attracts the eyes and thoughts of people to itself. Almost always the concept of rest is combined with the concept of rest by the water.

But in many suburban areas there are no streams or lakes. Very often they are not even nearby, and so you want a good outdoor recreation. But there is a way out.

Own pond in the country - it's real

A small, do-it-yourself pond will become a favorite vacation spot. This man-made miracle can make your dreams of your own decorative pond in the garden or country house come true, and even become a platform for aquatic floriculture.

With the help of a film hydroprotective coating, it is possible to make a reservoir of any shape and different area: from the smallest to reservoirs, it is enough large area. It all depends on the size of the site and the design of the landscape.

Applying various decorative materials and decorations, you can give the pond the appearance of a natural mountain reservoir or, conversely, a well-maintained pool. With the help of a pump, you can make a waterfall or a fountain, create an imitation of a mountain stream. You can run fish into the pond, plant water plants. In combination with decorative elements, all this looks spectacular and creates a favorable atmosphere.

You can make a small mini pond in the country with your own hands in almost any area, with any soil, and this does not require any equipment or complex devices.

For this you will need the following materials:

• special film for creating reservoirs;
• geotextile;
• sand;
• decorative stones;
• hose for supplying water to the pool;
• scissors;
• shovel;
• level.

As a waterproofing film for ponds, PVC film or butyl rubber is used.

It is better to purchase a special film in the appropriate store. For small pools, you can safely use pvc film. But if you are seriously interested in landscape design and want to make an original pond using decorative forms and plants, then it is better to use butyl rubber. This material is very flexible, elastic, durable (service life is more than 30 years). In addition, if any changes have suddenly occurred and you decide to change the shape of the pond, you can reuse this film.

The device of the pond in the photo

You need to start by deciding on the location and shape of the pond. You also need to decide what this reservoir will be used for. If fish will be bred in it in the future, then the depth of the deepest part of the pond should be at least 1.5-2.0, and for the northern regions and more, meters. This is necessary so that the reservoir does not freeze in winter and the fish would have a place to spend the winter. The deepest place itself should not be very large, and even in small reservoirs fish can be found.

The minimum depth of the reservoir is usually made at least 50-80 cm. At a shallower depth, the water will overheat in summer and this will lead to the development of unfavorable flora in the reservoir. And in winter, accordingly, such a pond will freeze and the plants and microorganisms that inhabited it will not survive in it.

The bottom of the pond is most often made with ledges. The relief of the bottom of the reservoir has several zones:

• coastal;
• shallow water;
• deep zone.

The coastal zone is usually a small strip along the coast. Its depth is about 15-20 cm. The shallow zone can be decorated with small stones or tiles. Shallow water is considered to be a depth of up to 50 cm. Plants are bred here. This is a place for decorative compositions, which can be made from groups of large stones using decorative ornaments.

The deep zone in ordinary ornamental ponds is most often 80-120 cm. Here, too, you can plant plants that grow at a depth. Most often, water lilies (nymphs) are planted there.

There are many varieties that tolerate winter well and are adapted for cold winters. They bloom for almost six months, starting from the end of April and right up to mid-October. It turns out a very beautiful flowering pond.

If the pond is made only for plant breeding, then it does not have to be deep. A depth of 60-90 cm is quite enough. It is at this depth that it is recommended to plant nymphs in the regions of the middle and northern strip. It is better to make the mirror of the reservoir itself as large as possible, so that they have room to grow, because. one plant can occupy a fairly large area on the surface of the water.

For good flowering, nymphs (they are also lilies and water lilies) need a lot of light. This must be taken into account when choosing a place for a pond. There are more shade-loving lilies, but they also need lighting for 4-5 hours a day. There are a large number of varieties of nymphs and a variety of colors: from white and white-pink to red and dark purple.

Pontederia and nymphs in the pond

For framing the pond and the shallow water zone, it is also better to choose plants that grow well in this climatic region. The pond then looks natural and does not require much maintenance. It is best to use traditional plants: sedge, reed, reed, cattail. Of the flowering ones, you can plant an arrowhead, pontederia, loosestrife (plakun-grass), lungwort.

Loosestrife

The willow-leaved loosestrife has not only decorative qualities, it is also medicinal plant. Marsh iris looks very nice. But in the coastal zone of the reservoir, both on the shore and in shallow water, decorative irises also grow well, because. they are very fond of water and blend perfectly with herbaceous coastal plants.

Step-by-step instruction

How to do decorative pond in the country or in the garden with your own hands? Consider step by step instructions with photo.

Step 1. Marking and layout of the site. The contour of the pond is drawn on the selected area. The projections of all depth contours are also applied.

Marking can be done by laying a rope or hose on the surface. You can draw contour lines with sand.

Before you start digging a pit, you need to make a vertical layout of the site on which the pond will be located. In order to prevent it from happening that through one of the low edges of the reservoir, water will flow out of it, it is necessary to check horizontal level along the entire planned edge of the reservoir. The plane of the entire edge must be horizontal, at the same level.

This can be checked with a long stick and a level. Or, having hammered pegs on opposite edges of the pool, pull a rope over them and then attach a level to it. If in some places the surface of the earth is below the required mark, then it is necessary to add soil there.

Step 2. Pit. After leveling the site, we proceed to tearing off the pit. It should be done 5-10 cm deeper than the design depth of the pond.

The bottom is thoroughly cleaned from the remnants of vegetation, roots and stones. It is important to do this carefully, because. stones and other objects can subsequently damage the waterproofing film. Sand is poured at the bottom with a layer of 5 cm and tamped into the ground.

Around the contour of the pond, at a small distance from it - about 20 cm, a small trench is being dug. The approximate width and depth of the trench are 15-20 cm. The edge of the film will be fixed in it.

Step 3. Determining the dimensions of the waterproofing film. To determine overall dimensions film, it is necessary to measure the length and width of the bottom of the pit in the widest places. This is conveniently done with the help of cords that are laid out along the bottom. To the resulting length, you need to add 50 cm on each side, which are needed to equip the coastline.

Step 4. We cover the bottom with geotextiles and a waterproofing film. First, the bottom is lined with a layer of geotextile. This protects the waterproofing film from possible damage.

The film itself is applied on top, carefully filling all the curves of the relief. If the project provides for the future supply of water through a hose that is laid on the bottom, then it can be hidden in the folds of the film.

We press the film well to the ground and temporarily fix it with stones so that it does not move. The film should also be brought into the groove that was dug around the pool. The film is pressed with something heavy for temporary fixation. But they don’t fall asleep yet, because. while filling the pool with water, the film may still move.

Step 5. Arrangement of the deep zone. If the project provides for planting plants in the deep zone, then now is the time to install them there.

Plants are planted in special containers. The container is filled with substrate. Containers are installed in the right place on the bottom of the pool. Stones are also laid out at the bottom, if they are provided for by the project. Large stones look beautiful at the bottom.

Step 6. Filling the pond with water. After laying the film, you can fill the deep zone of the pond with water. Water must be poured with a small pressure so that the pool is filled gradually. Thus, water, squeezing air out from under the film, will smoothly occupy right space and form the bottom. The film may then move slightly until it reaches the correct position under the pressure of the water.

If you pour water quickly, then there may be unnecessary tension in the film or air voids under it, which in the future may lead to tearing of the film.

Step 7. Planting plants in shallow water and coastal zone. In the shallow and coastal zone of the pond, containers with appropriate plants are installed. Crushed stone is poured around the containers. They also lay out larger stones that can protrude from the water, creating islands. In the coastal zone, the bottom is usually covered with small pebbles. After installing the flowerpots, the reservoir is filled with water to the brim.

Step6. Fixing the edges of the film. Building an earthen castle. After the pond is completely filled with water and the film has completely fallen into place, you can proceed to the device of an earthen lock, which will finally fix the film in the desired position. And it will also serve as a barrier between the aquatic environment and the soil, so that these media do not mix, and the reservoir has a clear line.

The edges of the film lead into this trench, which was dug around the pond. Crushed stone is poured on top of the film. It will serve as a fixing weight to hold the film. Next, the trench is covered with earth and a small earthen roller is made along the contour of the pond.

Unnecessary edges of the film are cut off.

Step 7. Arrangement of the coastline. The next stage is the arrangement of the framing of the pond. Depending on the design, stone or tile paving can be made on the shore.

If the pond was created in the form of an imitation of a natural reservoir, then it is enough to lay out several large stones. Paths are made along the line of the pond; a bridge can be made across the pond itself. Here you can give free rein to your imagination and create a pond completely with your own hands as your heart desires.

How to make a pond with your own hands video

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Recreation in the country is an opportunity to dedicate yourself to nature, relax, forgetting at least for a while about city everyday life, and this is best done on the shore of your own pond. It all depends on your imagination and the size of the suburban area. Is it possible to make a pond in the country with your own hands? Of course. Follow the instructions below and you'll be fine.

Man-made pond in the country

Of course, I want to spend time in a well-equipped dacha, on the territory of which landscaping and complete landscaping are done - after all, resting in a dacha, which is a rickety house with a small courtyard overgrown with weeds and thistles, will definitely not contribute to peace of mind.

At the same time, a green, well-groomed lawn and neat trees, flower beds and artificial reservoirs will turn the territory of the dacha into a real earthly paradise. And ornamental ponds will take not the last place in it. Own pond in the country can be of almost any size - from a couple of square meters to a pond of a large area.

First of all, you need to understand the very purpose of an ornamental pond: unlike pools, the water in which must be subjected to special treatment (chlorination, ozonation, etc.), a garden pond will require the creation of a certain biological balance. Otherwise, the water in it will bloom and become cloudy, the plants will wither and they will take a fancy to it, except that midges and frogs are a dubious pleasure for the owner of the pond.

Types of garden ponds

Garden ponds having a geometrically regular shape - rectangular, round, diamond-shaped, etc. - look especially good in suburban areas, landscaped in the correct geometry (smooth lines, ideal shapes). As a rule, such decorative reservoirs are edged along the edges with tiled stone (artificial or natural), they are arranged near buildings, thereby emphasizing straight lines.

Ponds with the correct geometry can be made above ground level: this type of pond minimizes earthwork during their construction, simplifies their care, and reduces the risk of small children falling into it. The sides of such a pond protruding above the ground are suitable for a flower garden, you can install seats on them, and arrange a fountain in the pond itself.

Artificial ponds imitating natural reservoirs - they are characterized by rounded shapes and a coastline of arbitrary shape. Plants that are natural for marsh flora are planted along their banks. A gentle slope under water, covered with medium-sized cobblestones or pebbles - landscape designers usually place this type of ponds in the far part of the garden, near the lawn. Such natural ponds are especially successful in arbitrary garden improvement.

Choosing the size and location of the garden pond

Of course, the size of an artificial pond directly depends on total area suburban area. If we talk about building a pond ecosystem, then large ponds are more convenient for this. Balancing vegetation and aquatic life in a large body of water is easier than in a small one, and larger ponds are easier to maintain. The smaller the artificial reservoir, the more often it will have to be cleaned - the lack of space for the inhabitants of the reservoir will not allow establishing a full-fledged ecological balance.

The place for the future pond is chosen from the point of view of aesthetics, the placement is especially good. artificial reservoir near the main building - you can watch the water surface from the windows or sitting in an armchair on the terrace.

The best place for a pond would be an open space, not subject to strong winds - a strong wind will interfere with the development tall plants on the shore of the reservoir. It is necessary to calculate the illumination of the pond: the direct rays of the sun should not illuminate the reservoir for more than 10 hours (6 hours of illumination is optimal). With greater illumination in stagnant water conditions, the active development of aquatic bacteria and green algae (for example, mud) will begin. At the same time, in those parts of the pond where the illumination is insufficient (shading), the growth and development of aquatic plants will slow down.

The proximity of an artificial reservoir to the crowns of trees will lead to its pollution during seasonal leaf fall, in addition, root system trees can damage the pond bed, breaking through the underlying film or displacing the edges of the bath.

Owners who are planning to illuminate a pond at night, or a pump for a waterfall cascade or fountain, should consider the location of the pond from the standpoint of power supply.

Artificial Pond - Materials

A man-made reservoir can be made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or butyl rubber film, use a ready-made container made of reinforced plastic or fiberglass, or create a reinforced concrete pond bowl.

In terms of the speed of creation, the first place is occupied by purchased containers made of fiberglass - all that is required is to dig a deep enough pit for them and place the container in it on a prepared and compacted sand cushion (it resembles a plastic basin of large size and, often, a bizarre shape).

Truth, big pond it will not be possible to arrange from fiberglass - serial production tanks, as a rule, have a small quadrature (usually an area of ​​\u200b\u200babout 4 m 2, depth - 500-800 mm). Larger fiberglass tanks are intended more for swimming pools (above 10 m2) and are therefore more expensive. However, a small pond made of plastic or fiberglass for small suburban areas is quite suitable. The cost depends on the volume, shape and color.

A large pond and a “free” (i.e., not tied to any standard forms) layout can be arranged using a film (PVC or butyl rubber) - the film is needed to waterproof the reservoir. The cost of such material is low, in retail outlets it is widely represented both in terms of quality and manufacturers.

Do not use ordinary polyethylene in creating an artificial reservoir, it will serve you for a maximum of 2 years, then its density will be broken under the influence of physical and temperature influences.

PVC film or butyl rubber is suitable for creating a garden pond. The first material has sufficient strength and elasticity, has a high-quality structure - the reservoir formed by it will last at least 15 years. However, the undoubted leader in the field of waterproofing materials for artificial ponds is butyl rubber - it has high resistance to sunlight, high and low temperatures, and is not prone to cracking. Among other materials, butyl rubber has only one drawback - it is not cheap, but its service life exceeds 50 years.

If we are talking about complete reliability and durability, then there is only one material left - reinforced concrete. Unlike pond bowls formed by film or cast materials, you can walk along the bottom of a concrete reservoir without fear - it is difficult to damage such a bottom. However, it is more difficult to work with concrete, full compliance with the technology (welding of reinforcement, manufacturing of formwork), double waterproofing (on both sides of the concrete casting, both outside and inside) will be required - to protect against groundwater, i.e. the cost of such work will be the highest. It is possible to use special grade concrete that is not exposed to water, but it will cost even more and its use will require strict adherence to casting technologies.

Let's summarize the characteristics of materials for artificial ponds

The main advantages of film waterproofing: the ability to form the required shape, change the shape of the reservoir bowl in the future, ease of repair (if the film breaks). Minus: in winter, water from the reservoir will have to be poured out, if it freezes and expands, it will inevitably tear the film.

Advantages of reinforced concrete: high reliability, independence from external climatic factors (subject to the concreting technology), resistance to physical influences (stone falling, rodents, etc.). Cons: high labor intensity, extremely difficult rework. As a rule, the creation of artificial ponds from concrete is not popular, since the film is much easier to use. But if it is planned to build bridges over the reservoir and sculptural compositions on its banks, the best choice will be reinforced concrete.

When creating garden ponds, it is necessary to make sure that the materials chosen are completely non-toxic, otherwise the fish and plants in the pond will not survive.

Pond in the garden based on a finished (rigid) container

When choosing a rigid container for creating a pond with a total area of ​​​​up to 4 m 2, it is worth stopping at a fiberglass or plastic bath. The minimum depth of such a tank should be about 800 mm - the water in such a pond will warm up evenly in summer, and in winter it will not freeze to the bottom.

A ready-made container as a basis for a garden pond will allow you not to engage in cutting and fixing (activities performed when installing the film base of the pond), there is no need to build a general configuration - everything has already been done, the container is equipped with terraces for planting aquatic plants. The choice should be taken carefully - it will not be possible to change it.

Ready-made bathtubs for the pond are sufficiently durable, winter frosts they are not afraid. And yet, when transporting the pond tank to the site, it must be handled carefully and not stepped on. The wall thickness of such a tank is 3 mm, and in case of mechanical damage, cracks will appear, which will be difficult to seal.

Cheap plastic bathtubs have the shortest service life - they are gradually destroyed by sunlight, and the surface of such containers cracks when bent. Unlike them, tanks made of reinforced plastic are more resistant to ultraviolet radiation, have a greater margin of safety (they are more plastic) - the service life of such tanks for ponds is up to 20 years.

The best and therefore the most expensive are fiberglass tanks with a rubber backing. A reservoir based on them will last more than 30 years and, unlike plastic containers, they can be repaired without damage. general characteristics. Fiberglass is the most resistant to low / high temperatures and exposure to sunlight, it has high environmental performance and is completely safe for the flora and fauna of an artificial reservoir.

Apart from quality characteristics fiberglass tanks have aesthetic appeal: they can be of three colors - black, brown and green; a decorative coating is applied to their edges, imitating natural materials, which makes it easier to give artificial pond natural look.

Fiberglass bathtubs are made not only for ponds, but also for streams. Containers for imitating a stream have an outwardly “stone” texture and easily fit into the overall landscape, and a multi-stage shape allows you to conveniently plant aquatic plants. The bed of such a stream is fenced on the sides with protrusions that protect the roots of plants from washing out.

Artificial reservoir with film waterproofing

The laying of flexible coatings is carried out both in a prepared pit and between erected walls raised above ground level. Such a decision in creating a pond in the country is justified if the estimated size of the future reservoir is larger than the parameters of the rigid shells offered by specialized stores. The film coating is also used when creating reservoirs of complex shape - the use of a waterproofing film will greatly facilitate this task.

To create a reservoir, you can use polyethylene (thickness 500 microns), laid in two layers, among other film coatings, its cost is the lowest. Although the characteristics of polyethylene are more than minimal: it is easy to tear (by sharp stones, claws of animals, etc.), becomes brittle under the influence of the sun, and when damaged, it is practically impossible to repair. Polyethylene coating will provide waterproofing of the reservoir for no more than 5 years (on average - 3 years). This is rather a temporary solution for those summer residents who do not like constancy - after three years there is an excellent reason to change the place of the pond.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating will cost more than polyethylene, but it will also last longer - on average, about 8-10 years. Manufacturers offer two types of PVC coating: the usual two-layer and reinforced, in which a woven mesh is laid between the layers of the film (for strength). In general, such a coating has all the disadvantages of polyethylene. Solar ultraviolet damages the strength of the PVC film, it is easy to perforate. But, unlike polyethylene film, damage to PVC film can be repaired using a special repair kit. In addition, this film stretches better - after filling the reservoir with water most of the folds will stretch and even out.

The best pond film is made from butyl rubber - this material is durable (service life of about 50 years), strong and indestructible by ultraviolet light. Butyl rubber film comes in three colors: black, stone-like and charcoal-like. If the soil in your area contains big number stones, or it is planned to build a reservoir with a high load on the base (great depth and considerable width of the pond) - choose a butyl rubber coating and you will not be mistaken.

Characteristics of butyl rubber coating: high plasticity, ease of installation, regardless of the season and air temperature. Low temperatures do not affect this coating, so it is not necessary to drain water from the reservoir for the winter.

Film for the pond - which color is better

The color of the film will seriously affect the overall appearance of the reservoir. The black bottom will turn the reservoir into a kind of mirror, reflections of the sky and clouds, plants planted along the coastline will be clearly visible in it. Film black or Brown will serve as a good imitation of natural bottom soil. A cream or blue bottom will look unnatural, but colorful fish look great against such a background. If you choose a grayish or bluish tint, the pond will look like a swimming pool. Choose the color of the film depending on the functions of the reservoir: if it is a pond - black or brown, if the pool - white or blue.

Create a decorative pond using a film

We draw the contour of the future pond at the selected place and determine the required film size. The calculation of the film coating is done as follows: the width and length of the canvas will be equal to the sum consisting of the size of the width (in the second case, the length) of the future reservoir, twice the size of the depth and 600 mm allowance for fixing the film along the edges of the pond.

It must be taken into account that the standard parameters of a roll of butyl rubber film are as follows: width from 4.5 to 15.25 m (more precisely, then 4.5; 6.1; 9.15; 12.20 and 15.25 m) , length - 20-25 running meters. Sometimes it is easier to make adjustments to the parameters of the future pond than to glue pieces of film together. If there is a need for gluing a film for a pond, this is quite possible, only special adhesive compositions and adhesive tape produced by the same manufacturer as the selected film. To obtain a high-quality seam when gluing a butyl rubber film, use mastic followed by hot vulcanization.

In addition to the waterproofing film, when forming the bowl of the reservoir, geotextiles will be required (optimal density - 350 g / m 2) - for the insulating coating, it will act as a protective layer (from the roots of trees, teeth and claws of animals, sharp stones, etc.).

To create a reservoir with your own hands, you will need: sand (for the underlying layer), spirit level (building level), a coil of cord (or twine for marking), wooden pegs, a garden hose, shovels.

We create a pit of a reservoir

First of all, evaluate the future shape of the reservoir, for this with a hose of sufficient length and pegs - change the position of the hose fragments until the shape of the reservoir bowl suits you. When planning a free-form pond, try to get rounded lines without sharp corners - such a pond will look better. In the process of planning the pond, mark out terraces for pond plants along its edges, they are performed at a depth of 300 mm.

Having decided on the shape of the reservoir and completing the markup, proceed to work on the pit. First, three-hundred-millimeter terraces come off (after filling the reservoir, the distance from the terrace to the water level will be about 200 mm). The banks of the future pond should have a slope of approximately 45o. In the process of creating a pit, try to remove all plant roots and stones that come across to you. Having completed work on the terraces, check the horizontality of the banks using a board with a spirit level laid on it.

The next stage of work is the formation of the main bowl of the reservoir, its deep part. Remember: the minimum required depth of the reservoir is 600 mm. Such a reservoir will not freeze completely in winter, and in summer pond fish will be able to find refuge at such a depth from scorching rays sun. Then, along the coastline, it is necessary to dig a ledge with a depth of 60-70 mm, for the subsequent laying of a blind area of ​​tiles, bricks, natural stone or laying turf.

We form a drainage layer and waterproofing

Having completed work on the pit, it is necessary to pour washed sand over its entire area with a layer of 30-50 mm - the sand is placed on the bottom, banks and terraces, carefully rammed. After making sure that the sand drainage is done well enough (there are no bumps), place a geotextile on top to isolate the film coating from damage.

The next step will be laying the prepared sheet of film. Do not try to align the film along the contours of the reservoir - let it sag over it - lay it loosely. Align the sheet of film along the banks, securing the edges with a sufficient number of bricks (stones).

Connect a garden hose to a water source and feed it in the center of the film laid over the pit - it will gradually sit down, taking the shape of a reservoir. Watch for drawdown by moving holding stones along the banks. After the artificial reservoir is completely filled, you need to wait a day, then cut off the excess film, leaving a margin of 250-300 mm along its edges (a blind area will be laid on them). Secure the edges around the perimeter of the pond using wooden wedges or wire arcs.

The next step is laying the blind area. Its width must be at least 600 mm, it is made of tiles, bricks or natural stone. The blind area must be laid on cement mortar- if you put it only on a pillow of sand, a person who steps on a tile can move down into the pond with it.

Summer residents planning a waterfall or fountain in an artificial reservoir need to lay and close the blind area with a hose for water supply before laying the tiles on the cement mortar. The same should be done if there is a need for power supply to the pond (underwater floodlights, water pumps), by passing a plastic or copper tube for the subsequent pulling of the electric cable.

Creation of a reservoir raised above ground level

For such a reservoir, at least one retaining wall is required. The foundation for such a reservoir is required, otherwise the pond bowl may be distorted.

The construction of a reservoir above ground level is carried out in the same way as the construction of an ordinary garden wall: the place and parameters of the future pond are determined, trenches are dug out for laying the foundation. After casting, the foundation must harden within two full days.

When creating a body of water half-submerged in the ground, dig a pit in the deepest part, then form terraces for planting plants (approximately at the level concrete foundation). Then carefully remove all the stones and lay a pillow of sand on the bottom of the pit.

Build retaining walls around the perimeter of the pond, carefully tracking the position of each row. Before laying the waterproofing film, wait 48 hours - the wall mortar must completely harden.

Lay the film in such a way that its edges protrude evenly from all sides of the supporting wall. If your future pond is rectangular or square shape, form according to inside corners folds from the film in the form of a neat accordion. The film panel must be temporarily pressed on top of the supporting walls with bricks.

Gradually fill the film hanging over the pond with water by moving or removing the pressing stones on the supporting walls, aligning the corner folds. After the reservoir is completely filled, cut off the excess film along the edges, keeping the indentation at half the size of the supporting wall (it will be covered with stones when forming the ridge). Remove water from the reservoir. To protect the edges of the film, we install ridge stones. The pond is ready - fill it with water, place plants and fish.

Decorating a country pond

In itself, a garden pond is not bad - you can put a gazebo near the water and relax on a hot afternoon in the shade and coolness, watching the game of fish in its depths. But you can turn it into something enchanting and colorful - fountains created by a system of pumps and underwater lighting will help here.

Pond pumps are produced in two versions: surface and underwater. Let's say you want a two-meter jet of water to come out of the pond - you need an underwater pump. If a two-meter fountain is not enough, choose a surface pump and you will be provided with a really high column of water.

The underwater pump is mounted on the bottom of the pond: first put stone plinth, a pump is placed on it and is closed on top with a ceramic casing made to look like natural stone. A complete set (pump, plinth and casing) can be purchased from one retailer.

How an underwater pump works: it draws water from the bottom of the reservoir and sweeps it over the water surface with the help of special nozzles. If a fountain or waterfall is installed separately from a reservoir, water is supplied through supply pipes. Some models of pumps can supply water for both a waterfall and a fountain at the same time. The pump is powered by electrical cable with waterproof insulation.

The surface pump is installed in a disguised brick chamber on the shore of a reservoir, not far from a fountain or waterfall. Water is supplied to the pump from the reservoir through a pipe with a mandatory filter at the inlet. The surface pump needs more technical equipment than the underwater pump - a drain system, filters (on the suction pipe), a suction system. Otherwise it will overheat.

The greatest effect from the work of fountains is achieved in reservoirs of the correct form. Fountains are placed in the center of the reservoir in such a way that the water thrown out by them does not fall on coastal plants.

The type of fountain and the height of the jet ejection depend on the type of nozzle installed on the submersible pump. The jet of water itself, depending on the installed nozzle, may have the shape of, say, a bell or a beating key. A boring fountain tube can be decorated with fiberglass, stone, bronze or ceramic cladding. If a cladding is used, then the water nozzle is attached to the brass connector with which the cladding is equipped. The cladding body is exposed either to the bottom of the reservoir, or to a special stand.

Lighting will help create a magical atmosphere in the evening and at night. Lighting equipment for private reservoirs is designed for 12 V power supply. halogen lamps in lamps it can be from 5 to 75 W - it is enough for bright lighting, because the luminous flux of such lamps exceeds household ones by 3 times.

Mini spotlights are installed on a special support or on a fountain nozzle, highlighting the scattered spray of water. There are floating lanterns, they consist of a light bulb placed in a sealed ball of glass. They can be lowered to a certain depth in a reservoir, suspended on a load, or installed at the bottom. By equipping the spotlights with color filters and turning devices the night pond will take on a simply stunning view.

How to take care of the pond

The natural balance of the reservoir will be formed quite quickly. To maintain it, it is necessary to remove all wind-blown debris and fallen leaves before this mass falls to the bottom and begins to decompose. It is possible that the bottom of the reservoir will have to be cleaned with a net every autumn, eliminating bottom debris.

To protect the water area of ​​the pond from falling leaves, you can use a fine-mesh net - it should be stretched over the mirror of the pond before autumn leaf fall and removed closer to winter. Or use a skimmer - a special pump for collecting floating debris.

To clean the bottom, a bottom vacuum cleaner is useful - its design resembles a regular one, but there is no filter in it. Water from the bottom of the pond is sucked into the device, as the chamber fills up, the device automatically turns off and the container with mud must be emptied into the drainage system.

If you have settled fish in your decorative pond, then they will need oxygen. If it is lacking, use aerator pumps - they resemble aquarium ones, only larger and more powerful.

The main problem facing the owners of reservoirs with the beginning of the warm season is that the water in it turns green, which is caused by the active reproduction of protozoan algae. Most often, this problem is faced by owners of small reservoirs with a shallow depth and therefore quickly warmed up by the sun's rays. Water overheating can be prevented by using aquatic plants with large floating leaves (water lilies and capsules), as well as by planting oxygen generators - plants that fill pond water with oxygen (Canadian elodea, hornwort, swamp).

At the beginning of spring, when the plants have not yet had time to develop sufficiently, application is required. chemicals fight (algicides). However, these drugs are harmful to both humans and aquatic life, so they should only be used as a last resort.

The danger for fish in the pond can be birds and cats, for them the fish is a subject of hunting. To protect pond fish from birds (for example, herons), you need to tighten the space above the shallow areas of the pond with a net or black threads (the latter solution is especially successful - black threads are practically invisible against the background of the water surface). An obstacle for cats will be a decorative wire fence (at least 150 mm high), usually used to fence flower beds.

The main threat to aquatic life in areas prone to frequent frosts is ice. The ice shell, which steadily covers the reservoir for more than a day, will lead to the accumulation of poisonous gases formed by the decaying remains of vegetation and, as a result, the partial or complete death of fish. It is necessary that part of the pond is always free of ice, a special small heater is the best solution. You should not try to break the ice using force - hitting the ice shell can stun and even kill the fish.

If your artificial reservoir has a great depth, use a pump to bring warm water from the depth to the water surface - this measure will prevent the formation of ice. As a last resort, in the absence of other methods and means, arrange an exhaust hole in the ice shell - with wormwood, for this, put a pot of boiling water on the ice (after the formation of the wormwood, do not forget to remove the pan!).

How to green up a pond

Aquatic plants perform an important task - they are a kind of water filters. The biological balance will be established when at least a third of the artificial reservoir is devoted to plants. Moreover, each type of aquatic plants requires planting at a certain depth.

So, the reservoir is finished, filled with water - it needs to be allowed to settle for 10 days and only then proceed to planting. Optimal time for planting aquatic plants is the beginning of summer.

You can plant plants in the laid soil at the bottom of the reservoir, but it is best to place them in mesh baskets, setting the latter to the bottom. It is easier to take care of plants in baskets - move them to a warm room for wintering and reproduce. The soil in the baskets is ordinary soil from the garden, its enrichment with manure, fertilizers or peat is not required. To keep the soil layer in the baskets from being washed away by water, a clean burlap or other coarse fabric laid on top will help. Place medium-sized gravel over the cloth to protect the roots from pond fish.

Before planting, remove especially long roots and old leaves from plants. After planting, compact the soil around the stem of the plant so that the distance between the soil and the edge of the basket is 40 mm.

Some types of pond plants do not require planting - they float freely on the surface of the reservoir, keeping themselves afloat. Representatives of such plants are water lilies and lotus. Such plants need to be closely monitored, because in favorable conditions they will multiply quickly and occupy the entire pond - periodically some of them must be removed. The main plant problem for any closed reservoir is duckweed, which reproduces rapidly and tends to capture the entire area of ​​​​the reservoir - do not plant it on purpose!

When buying aquatic plants, be sure to ask the seller at what depth they should be planted. When planting, stick to the measure - plants need light, and dense thickets on the water surface do not look attractive.

During the winter season, aquatic plants, whose natural habitat is a temperate climate, remain in the reservoir. If you planted in a pond exotic plants from warm countries, they should spend the winter outside the pond. Take them out and place them in a body of water indoors - an aquarium or a bath, before doing this, pruning especially overgrown plants.

An important point: when transferring plants for wintering indoors, do not forget to provide them with sufficient lighting.

Pond fish care

For the full existence of fish in a country pond, its depth should be no less than 1200 mm. At shallower depths, fish need to spend the winter outside the pond, otherwise they will die. Just bought fish should not be placed in the pond, give it time to acclimatize - it should get used to the temperature of the water in the reservoir. Let the container with the fish swim in the pond - this measure will avoid the shock state of the fish.

If you did not purchase fish from specialized stores, then you should not immediately release them into a garden pond. Place them in an aquarium by filling it with pond water. The time of such quarantine should be at least seven days - so you find out if the fish is sick.

Now about fish nutrition. In principle, there should be enough food for them in the pond: duckweed, algae, mosquito larvae and other insects living at the bottom of the reservoir. However, if there is not enough food or the number of fish increases, it needs to be fed. Purchase fish food in specialized stores - it contains everything necessary for pond fauna, in addition, such food is enriched with oxygen and will not become a source of pollution for the pond, it will float on the surface for some time. Give the fish as much food as they will eat in 10 minutes, otherwise it will still sink and rot.

A special need for vitamins occurs in fish in the spring, during this season increase the number of feedings. In autumn, when the temperature in the reservoir drops below 10 ° C, stop the feed supply completely.

Constantly monitor the condition of the fish, do not overfeed them, control their numbers (optimally: for 50 liters of water - one fish 100-150 mm long. Keep in mind that the fish is growing!).

A sick fish can be identified by its behavior: as a rule, it swims in circles and at the same time “staggers”, rubs its sides against objects in the reservoir, lies on its side on the surface. The presence of diseases is evidenced by "glued" fins, white coating on the eyes, snout, fins or gills. Having found a sick individual, immediately isolate it from the rest and place it in an aquarium. Then visit the pet store, describe the signs of the disease to the specialist and buy the necessary medicines.

Let the dacha be a place where work first goes on, and then rest, we do not forget about the beauty that helps us not to lose heart and enjoy every day spent there. Therefore, today we invite you to feel like landscape designers and build a pond in the country with your own hands.

Do-it-yourself pond creation rules and material requirements

A pond in the country is not a luxury, but in some way even a necessity. As the saying goes ancient philosophy feng shui - water near the house brings financial well-being and soothes.

In addition, it allows you to maintain relative humidity in a single area, pleases the eye and allows you to create an original solution in a designated area. Therefore, more and more often summer residents create ponds and ponds with their own hands, as in the photo.

Not everyone on the territory has a reservoir that can be put in order, surrounded by stone and made into an element of the landscape. More often we create a pond in the country with our own hands from scratch, faced with many issues that have to be addressed during construction.

Let's start with the fact that it is necessary to determine the location of the reservoir. For this the following factors should be taken into account:

• relief of the territory;
• the location of trees and other plants with a powerful root system, as well as foliage;
• illumination of the selected area.

Study the terrain carefully. You may already have well-placed indentations, pits, or ruts that you made earlier. All of them will simplify the process of digging the pond itself.

In addition, do not forget that plants tend to grow and take up more and more space underground. Over time, the roots can spoil or even destroy the bottom of your pond, and the foliage, seasonally falling into the water, will rot and exude bad smell. Which will require you to pay more attention to the care of the pond, but not the joy of having it. Therefore, before digging, it is worth considering how far trees and bushes are located.

Most landscape designers recommend placing a pond near your home. This will make it easier for you to illuminate it without requiring separate lights and lamps for yourself. In addition, there is always enough free space near the house with natural light, because. next to no tall trees and dense vegetation blocking the light.

If you have found a place that meets the above requirements, then you can start work.

But first you need to stock up on materials and exemplary project its future artificial reservoir.

Exist several ways to create a pond with their own hands in the suburban area:

• from the finished bowl;
• PVC film, polyethylene or rubber;
• with the help of available materials.

Besides in addition to materials for the bottom device, you will need:

• shovel,
• measuring tools,
• finishing and decorative materials,
• water.

After creating a pond, you can launch fish into it. But then the depth of your artificial reservoir should be at least a meter so that the fish do not freeze in winter.

The order of work on the arrangement of the pond

If you decide to arrange the landscape, choose a place and think about the appearance of your future pond, then first decide the main question - what will it be like? Will you choose a ready-made bowl or cover the excavated pit with foil? It's up to you to decide. And we will help you create it according to all the rules.

We dig in the finished bowl

The prefabricated mold, molded at the factory, is an excellent and simple solution for those who want to enjoy a charming and calm view of the pond after a busy summer day.

Now in specialized stores they offer bowls of different sizes, types and contents. They may be:

• simple plastic baths;
• containers with several levels of depth;
• bowls with complex contours of the coast.

Therefore, everyone will be able to choose the shape that best suits the territory and landscape without extra costs by time.

In addition, there are other advantages of ready-made bowls:

• the plastic form is durable and not exposed to ultraviolet radiation;
• the bowl is non-toxic and easy to install;
• the average shelf life of this form is calculated in tens of years, which makes the pond durable and of high quality.

The main thing is not to damage the bowl during its installation in the future pond. The form is not subject to repair and restoration. However, if you are building to last, you can pick up a fiberglass bowl, it is famous for its strength and lasts 2-3 times longer.

So, you have chosen a bowl, found a suitable place, cleared it and are ready to create a pond with your own hands in the country. What's next?

First you need to transfer the contours of the bowl to the ground so that it fits exactly into the dug pit. For this you will need:

• bowl;
• pegs;
• shovel;
• rope.

To make the contour as similar as possible to the shape of a bowl, you need to install it on the ground and step back 10-20 cm from its edge. Repeating the shape of the bowl, stick the pegs into the ground and pull the rope along them.

So you will get the outlines of your future pond, under which you need to dig a foundation pit 20-30 cm more than the height of the bowl.

Don't forget to keep an eye on the top level. It is very important that the surface of your pit is even, otherwise the ground around the pond will always be wet and viscous, spoiling appearance coast.

When you achieve the desired depth and shape, be sure to sprinkle everything with sand and carefully tamp it down. This sand cushion will become the foundation for your pond. After you can set the form and fill the free space between the side of the bowl and the ground with sand.

When your future pond becomes stable, you can start filling and decorating it.

You can cover the shore with a decorative stone, plant water lilies or other water-loving plants along it. Install small figurines of swans or others created by yourself.

Making a film pond

If for some reason you do not want or cannot buy a finished bowl, then you can always make a pond with your own hands without it.

Enough to stock up:

• shovel;
• a rope or hose to outline the contour of the future pond;
• thick film.

You will need the rest (water, decorative elements and figurines) later, when the main stage is completed - creating a foundation pit for a pond.

As with creating a pond with a finished bowl, first you need to decide on the size of the future reservoir and its contour. Then apply its borders to the ground with a rope or hose, which can simply be laid along the lined border, or can be wrapped around driven pegs.

When you are sure that you like the shape and approximate view future pond, you can start digging. Here the process will always be the same, because we just need a foundation pit.

The level of the pond should be the same. Therefore, check the evenness of the banks with the help of a building level or a beam laid on both sides of the pit.

When you reach the desired depth, fill the bottom with sand, compact it well, and then lay it with geotextile so that the film does not tear over time. To do this, you can use special material sold in hardware stores, or you can do it on your own. Take, for example, old carpets, rugs, roofing material or linoleum, suitable for the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe dug pit.

Now that the bottom is ready, measure your future pond and calculate the size of the film you need to create it. Usually, it is enough to know the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe pit and its depth. After that, add an allowance of 50 cm on each side to strengthen the film along the shore. And you can go shopping.

The film must be very strong and dense in order to withstand the weight of the water that we eventually pour into the pond. Therefore, do not save on this primary material and choose it wisely - the film thickness must be at least 300 microns so as not to tear under constant pressure.

So, as soon as the film is laid out on the bottom:

1. Flatten it so that there are no folds and swelling.
2. Line the shore with stones so that when filling it does not gather at the bottom.
3. Prepare the plants if you want the pond to be with water lilies or other living decor.

The trick of how to arrange plants and flowers in a film pond will be shared with us Maxim Maximov in my master class:

The film pond is quite economical and allows us to create it in any shape and depth, which is impossible to do with a finished mold cast at the factory. That is why many choose this option to create their own reservoir in the country with their own hands.

But do not forget that the deeper you want to make the pond, the more likely it is that the shore may crumble. That is why we recommend that you, after the pit is dug, strengthen its walls. Depending on their height, you can use tiles or slate. And how best to do it, he will tell us Talla Khukhrianskaia in my master class:

When all technical issues are resolved, the pit can be filled with water. To do this, just throw a hose connected to the water supply into it.

In addition to the stone, which has an important function and holds the film on the shore, you can put decorative figurines, flower pots and handicrafts that you have made for giving your own hands. Decorate the pond so that it reflects your creative nature and is pleasing to the eye.

Do not get carried away with decor, because periodically the pond needs to be cleaned so that the water does not fade in it and does not turn a beautiful country pond into a large puddle. And for this, be sure to leave a place on the shore so that you can go to the pond. Better yet, provide a stream that will drain the water.

We create a pond in the country from improvised materials

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to find the right and high-quality building materials, but if the desire to create a pond with your own hands does not go anywhere, do not despair. Simple improvised materials will also come to the rescue, which any summer resident has enough of.

A pond can be made from a variety of things:

• from an old car tire;
• from an old bathtub left after repair;
• from a barrel, basin or bucket.

Bathtub pond...

... from old tires ...

...and from an old barrel

If you really want to create an unusual and original pond, then the lack of capacity will not stop you.

Using old containers

As we have said, a pond can even be made from an old bathtub. After all, in fact, it is no worse than the finished form.

The process of creating such a pond will be similar to the previous ones:

• dig a pit under the form;
• fill it with sand and make a cement screed;
• insert bath;
• fill with water.

Due to its weight, the bathtub will sag heavily in the pit, which is why it is recommended to tighten its bottom with cement - to strengthen it. So that over time the pond does not go deeper.

Also, do not spare sand and earth to stabilize the tub inside the pit. For a snug fit of our handy bowl to the shores, fill in all the voids.

And do not leave the side of the bathtub open, it will not look aesthetically pleasing and will spoil the appearance of the future artificial reservoir.

And how to dig a bath and arrange it in a pond with your own hands will clearly show and tell Vitaly KIY in your video tutorial:

However, if your summer cottage is not large enough to have a full-fledged pond on it, do not be discouraged - you can also make a pond with your own hands in the country from small containers, as in the photo.

Take an old metal or wooden basin, a small barrel or tub. All of them can become an original decorative reservoir, which does not even have to be submerged below ground level.

At the little pond from an old basin there are many benefits, so do not deny yourself the joy of creating a modest artificial reservoir, if the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe site does not allow more:

• does not require excessive costs - everything you need for its device is at hand;
• it will take a little time to arrange it - from several minutes to a couple of hours, but not a day or more;
• it can be placed anywhere;
• if you installed the pond on the surface, and did not dig it in, then you can always rearrange it to another place by simply pouring out the water and refilling it after being carried;
• he does not require special attention to care - it is enough to change the water from time to time and wash it from the inside so that the bottom is clean.

Ponds from a basin or a small barrel can be placed on a reinforced, level surface, filled with water and decorated decorative figurines or flowers.

But if your pelvis has long lost its decent appearance and there is no way to restore its former gloss, then simply dig a small ditch to fit its size, install it there according to the principle of an old bath and overlay it with pebbles along the shore.

As you can see, old containers allow us to fantasize and create incredible ponds with our own hands in a country house of any size. And it helps us realize our creative potential.

Pond to the cottage from the tire

However, if repairs are not planned in the apartment, and the old basins have long been worn out or turned into flower beds, do not despair, you still have a chance to get your own pond.

And for this you will need the most indispensable and affordable material - a car tire. Tires in modern dacha society have long turned into a universal substitute building materials.

And no wonder - the strength and shape of the tire allows you to make anything out of it, including a pond. And the size of the future reservoir will depend only on the size of the tire you choose.

First you need to prepare your future container - cut it off along the top edge so that only the sides remain. To do this, you need a jigsaw or sharp knife(if you have chosen a tire from a passenger car).

After you can go to the pond itself.

Installation steps:

1. Outline the tire and dig a pit along the height of the prepared bowl.
2. Fill the pit with sand and tamp the bottom.
3. Insert the cover inside.
4. Cover the tire and the bottom of the future pond with a thick film.
5. Fill the edges of the film with sand, and then decorate with turf, stone or embankment so that the film is well fixed.
6. Fill the pond with water and decorate with pre-designed decor.

Your tire pond is ready. And it will not yield in beauty to either ready-made bowls or large film ponds located in large spaces.

In addition, it is easier to care for and keep clean, and it does not require a lot of water or effort to arrange it.

As you can see, if you have been wanting to feel like a landscape designer for a long time in order to turn your dacha into a beautiful vacation spot where you can not only work, but also enjoy nature away from the noisy city, you can always create a pond with your own hands at no extra cost.

If you like our ideas, check out the other articles in the series!

How to turn your suburban area into a real paradise? Just. You need to create a beautiful place that pleases the eye. And where the soul rests, there the mood improves, and the vitality rises.

One of the bright touches in landscape design can be a decorative pond in the country, comfortably located among the greenery.

Despite the fact that most summer cottages are limited in size to the standard six acres, and the owners do not have the opportunity to make a large pond, this is not a reason to deny yourself the pleasure of having an artificial reservoir on the site. The technical side of the issue will also not become an obstacle if there is a desire and competent instructions that describe step by step how to make a pond with your own hands.

Stage 1 - Idea (types of ponds)

Before starting large-scale construction works and to build a whole lake with your own hands, you need to think about the goal of creating a reservoir on the site.

In terms of functionality (goals), four types can be distinguished:

small pond.

This is a body of water that is part of landscape composition. Their purpose is to decorate a corner of the garden and please the eye. Active recreation near such a pond is not expected.

decorative pond.

It is a deeper body of water. As a rule, they are decorated with bridges, fountains, and lights are mounted. Such a pond is equipped near country house, terraces or gazebos, benches, sun loungers and umbrellas (or awnings) are installed nearby. And the reservoir becomes the center of the recreation area for the inhabitants of a private house.

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A personal artificial lake in which fish swim is not only a dream of fishermen. Children, cats and other family members will be happy to watch colorful fish while relaxing in nature.

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They are also country ponds, which are designed, in addition to the aesthetic function, to provide an opportunity to refresh or even swim, depending on the size.

Based on the purpose and own capabilities, the location of the pond, its parameters and geometry will be determined.

Stage 2 - The style of the reservoir in the country

The garden pond can be made in two versions with an endless variety of different modifications:

Formal (regular) body of water.

The name successfully reflects the essence of the pond, it is a structure that has a rigidly defined shape.

The geometrically correct shape of the pond is more suitable for areas designed in a classic style or in modern, minimalist or high-tech styles.

As well as rectangular shapes, round, square, and broken (symmetrical or asymmetrical) also refer to the formal type of pond.

Landscape pond on the site.

A more popular option among users, since it has an irregular coastline, a natural look, creates the effect of being close to nature and does not limit the flight of the creators' imagination.

Tip: The shape of the pond is determined by the preferences of the owners, but the more complex the shore line, the harder it is to lay the film.

An important aspect that you need to pay attention to when choosing the style of the reservoir on the site is the terrain. Smooth surface makes it possible to equip a reservoir of any configuration. Differences and irregularities require increased attention, but they allow you to make a reservoir with a waterfall or a cascade of ponds. On such a relief, a bridge or an artificial slide will organically look.

You can also independently raise the pond above ground level. The only difference in the technology of work will be the construction of the foundation, which will avoid the distortion of the concrete bowl of the artificial lake.

The high pond minimizes excavation, is easier to maintain and is suitable for families with small children (the edge is equipped with a fence with railings). Such a reservoir can be built near a covered terrace, making it not only an element landscape design but also a place of rest.

Tip: If you're planning on making a pond with a fountain, opt for a tall pond.

Stage 3 - Place (location) for the pond

It is illogical to create a pond for the sake of a pond on the site. It is much more pleasant if the reservoir brings a zest, a decorative accent to the color of the landscape of the site. So, you need to place it in a good place. It is the location that will allow you to admire the artificial lake from anywhere.

How to choose the right place for a pond in the country?

To do this, you need to take into account a number of factors:

• plot size. Directly affects the size of the pond itself and its configuration;

• relief. It also determines the shape of the pond and provides an opportunity to simplify the creation of fountains, waterfalls, or vice versa, to achieve a perfectly smooth water mirror;

• soil composition and level groundwater. Have a direct impact on the depth of the pond, the complexity of the work and the need for additional materials;

• illumination. It is desirable that the pond is located in a shaded place. The time of exposure to direct sunlight should not exceed 5-6 hours. Otherwise, part of the water from the pond runs the risk of evaporating, and biological activity will negate all the beauty of the reservoir. Recommendation: after choosing a place for the pond, observe the solar regime for several days.

Tip: The deeper the reservoir, the more illuminated the place it can be located.
A pond intended for fish all the more needs thoughtful placement, because the level of oxygen decreases in very warm water.

• visibility. It is better to place the pond so that it can be seen from the window of the house or from the gazebo. Good visibility is especially important for families with children.

• reflection. The pond will only benefit if only clouds or beautiful buildings are reflected on its surface, and not a toilet or a greenhouse.

• degree of landscaping. The trees and bushes growing around the pond are definitely a very organic addition. But, these are also fallen leaves and branches, which, falling into the water, will pollute its surface and, ultimately, settle to the bottom in the form of silt. In addition, tree roots can damage the waterproofing of the pond.

Tip: you can ensure a sufficient amount of greenery near the pond by decorating it with plants in tubs (barrels).

• power supply. For those owners who plan to equip a fountain on the pond, lighting, etc. should consider in advance the possibility of electrifying this site and the yard.

Tip: it is better to supply electricity at the development stage and lay the wires in a protected and durable corrugation underground, and equip the connection points with a hatch for free access.

• the possibility of expanding the reservoir or arranging a recreation area. You need to plan ahead. In both cases, it is important that at least one side of the pond has enough space for possible redevelopment, adding a gazebo, barbecue area, installing sun loungers or a small waterfall.

• the compatibility of the pond with other buildings and the general view of the site.

Tip: it is better to start building a pond in the country with your own hands at the beginning of the warm season - in the spring. Thus, there will be a margin of time for the device and the reservoir will have time to fit into the design (“take root”).

Stage 4 - The size of the pond on the site

It cannot be said unequivocally that a large pond is a luxury, and a small one is a budget option or an opportunity to save money. A small pond does not always mean cheap, sometimes even the opposite. Each type has its own advantages. So let's focus on the key points:

• dimensions. Depend on the location of the pond in the country. On the sites there are recommendations on how much area the pond should occupy - from 3 to 10% of the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe site. In fact, there can be no clear recommendations;

• width and length. Determined by the size of the site and the physical capabilities of a person. After all, the pit under the pond is most often dug by hand;

Tip: the aspect ratio will determine the harmony of the pond.

• depth. Depends on the dimensions of the pool, pond or lake and the purpose of the arrangement.

• zoning. Professionals recommend dividing an artificial pond into three sections:

• coastal zone (100-400 mm). Designed for planting plants and entering the pond;

• shallow (400-1000 mm). For plants growing deeper. Tip: Nymphea or winter-hardy water lily grows well at this depth;

• deep water (over 1 m). It is necessary in those ponds where it is planned to breed fish. The area of ​​the deep-water zone depends on the type and number of fish, but should be at least 20% of the area of ​​the pond.

Tip: The lowest point of the reservoirs should be below the freezing level of the soil. This is especially important for those ponds in which fish live. Thus, she can overwinter painlessly in a non-freezing pond.

• biodynamic balance. A pond is a place that is inhabited by living creatures, therefore, a balance must be ensured so that the pond can clean itself. Special water treatment such as chlorination or ozonation for the pond is not provided.

Tip: plants should not occupy more than 50% of the pond area.

• content complexity. It's a paradox, but the larger the body of water, the easier it is to maintain.

Ponds - from small to large

Stage 5 - Material for the pond in the country

Moving forward in the field of study summer cottages, we gradually got to one of the key questions, how to make a pond with your own hands. Any construction begins with the choice of material.

The market offers many building materials for creating a pond. And craftsmen advise making a pond from improvised materials, this will allow you to build a small reservoir in the country without any special financial costs.

Consider all the materials suitable for building a garden pond.

Concrete pond.

An expensive option that allows you to operate the pond for a long time. Filling the pond with concrete (construction of a concrete bowl) is a method that is more suitable for building a pool.

Plastic bowl (capacity).

More suitable option. Made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or fiberglass, the form allows you to quickly complete all the work on the arrangement and operate the pond from 5 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the bowl.

The purchased form allows you to make a reservoir in 3 stages: dig a pit, install a bowl and fill the voids with sand.

The plastic bowl for a pond is characterized by simplicity of installation, durability and frost resistance.

Their minus is the high cost, the complexity of transportation (with a large volume) and the need to have basic installation skills. Otherwise, the bowl is very easy to damage. Please note that plastic bowls are destroyed under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Tip: the clear shape of the plastic bowl limits the possibility of creating a landscape pond on the site (subjective opinion).

In this subgroup, the best option is a fiberglass pond bowl (form) reinforced with a rubber base. An absolute plus of fiberglass in reliability and maintainability.

polymer film.

Provides unlimited possibilities in terms of choosing the shape of the reservoir. The simplest and most affordable material in this category is polyethylene film. It is affordable and cheap, but will not last long.

Longer life for PVC film. With proper installation and proper care, it will last more than 10 years. Tip: instead of PVC film, you can use advertising banners (transparents). They try to get rid of used banners and they can be bought inexpensively. Butyl rubber film for the pond. Most reliable material(rubber) for a waterproofing of a reservoir. Experts recommend a butyl rubber membrane (EPDM) for those who have a rocky bottom, many roots, a significant depth of the pool. The service life of butyl rubber is 50 years. It withstands repeated freezing.

Folk ways to make a pond from improvised materials

Bath pond

An old bathtub is the perfect container, specifically designed to hold water. It can be dyed in bright color and set in a beautiful corner of the garden. Or you can deepen it into the soil and get a small country pond, even with a fountain.

Tire pond (tire or wheel pond)

Another easy way to make a mini pond in the garden.

How to make a pond from a tire with your own hands is shown in the photo.

Basin pond

The method is so simple that women or even children are more often involved in its device. The basin holds water easily. Like a bath, it can be installed on the ground or deepened. The main thing in arranging a pond from a basin is decor. And then, a garden mini-pond will decorate the site no worse than a full-fledged reservoir.

Decorative pond made of plastic bottles.

Suitable for those who want to combine two in one: create a decorative pond and eliminate the buzzing of mosquitoes.

The material was prepared for the site www.site

Please note that the choice of material for the pond has a direct impact on the arrangement, appearance and service life.

Tip: When choosing a material for a pond, make sure that it is environmentally friendly.

Stage 6 - tools and equipment for the pond

To make a simple pond in the country, you need to prepare a level, a cord (for marking), pegs, a hose for irrigation, a shovel and a cart for removing soil.

For a more technological (capital) reservoir, equipment for the pond will be required:

• filter for water purification. The installation of a filter in reservoirs where fish is bred is especially relevant.

• pond pump. Allows you to organize the supply of water under pressure. It is used for pumping / pumping water, watering the garden, arranging fountains, waterfalls, operating filters (cleaning);

• pond sterilizer. Needed to eliminate algae (will help make the water clear);

• compressor (aerator) for a pond. Important for fish and plants. Aeration of the pond allows you to saturate the water with oxygen. Compared to an aquarium compressor, it has more power.

Stage 7 - We build a pond in the country with our own hands

As you can see, there are more than enough materials that allow you to create a pond on your own. We will focus on how to make a pond in the country from PVC film. The choice is due to the fact that the film takes shape better, it is quite affordable, working with it does not require special skills, the film is subject to repair.

Tip: so that the film does not tear in winter, it is necessary to provide for a deep-water part (below the freezing depth of the soil), which will serve as a kind of compensator.

7.1 Choice of pond film

PVC film colors:

• black - will turn the bottom of the lake into a mirror. In a dark pond, clouds, etc. will be well reflected;

• brown - perfectly imitates bottom soil. Suitable for creating landscape ponds;

• blue or cream - will give the pond a resemblance to a pool, but fish are clearly visible against a light background.

When choosing a film, pay attention to:

• compound. Polyethylene is fragile, PVC is stronger;

• thickness. A film with a thickness of more than 0.5 mm is suitable for a pond. The maximum thickness that is on the domestic market is 1.9 mm;

Tip: The deeper the pond and the more complex its shoreline, the stronger and thicker the film should be. The presence of stones or tree roots is also a reason to choose a stronger film.

• trademark (brand). According to reviews, as well as from practice, it is recommended to use film from the brands Gardena, Heissner, OASE;

• resistance to mechanical damage;

• UV resistance.

Tip: For pond depths over 1.5 m, butyl rubber (EPDM or synthetic rubber as it is also called) is the best solution. The rubber film is capable of stretching, resistant to UV and mechanical damage. Maintains from 40 to 80 °C.

• absence of toxic components in the composition of the film.

Calculation of the film for the pond

• film length = pond length + 2 x pond depth + margin (500-600 mm);

• film width = pond width + 2 x pond depth + margin (500-600 mm).

How and how to glue PVC film for a pond

The gluing of the pool film is carried out with a special adhesive (for example, Tangit (Tangit) PVC-U) or adhesive tape, for example, Quick Seam 3.

Tip: it is better to immediately adjust the geometry of the pond to the dimensions of the film.

7.2 Sketch and diagram of a pond in the country

Before you start digging a pit for a reservoir, you need to draw a sketch on paper, and also transfer it to the surface of the soil. It is advisable to indicate the depth and width of the shelves for plants or steps. This technique will avoid problems in the process of constructing a pond. It is convenient to apply the marking with a garden hose (it is flexible, bright, it is easy to adjust it) or with sand.

Tip: after marking the ground, cover the resulting area with a light film and look at it from different parts of the site. You may actually have to make adjustments to the future pond.

7.3 Digging a pond pit

The pit device includes:

• removal of sod (excavation);

• excavation pit. It is convenient to dig from the edge to the center, gradually deepening in the right places. For decoration, laying stone or laying turf, you need to dig a ledge 600-700 mm deep;

• removal of soil, as well as construction debris, roots, stones and everything that can damage the film.

Tip: since the excavated land needs to be put somewhere, you can equip alpine slide or level the surface of the area where there are depressions.

In the process of excavation, it is necessary to constantly ensure that the banks are on the same line. If a waterfall is planned, then you need to maintain the desired height difference.

Advice. If you need a building level (level) of great length, then you can do it yourself. To do this, you need to lay a regular building level 500 mm long on a long board.

7.4 Laying the pond substrate

After the foundation pit is dug, its bottom and walls are well rammed (this is necessary for shaping) go to waterproofing. Pond waterproofing is needed to prevent water from escaping into the soil.

Tip: some users prefer not to isolate. In practice, this leads to the fact that the water has a variable level.

There are several ways to form a substrate:

• lay out the compacted pit with stones, gravel and fill it with sand. But after a few years, such waterproofing will cease to fulfill its functions;

• lay geotextile on the bottom and cover with sand. A more reliable method, but also more expensive;

• lay PVC film. It is about the film, as the most common option, that is discussed in this article.

7.5 Laying the pond foil

Proper laying of the film does not exclude the installation of a sand cushion at the bottom of the future pond. According to professionals, such a pillow eliminates the possibility of damage to the film by roots or stones.

Advice. It is better to lay the film on a hot day. As it warms up, it will become more pliable.

Given the relief of the bottom and banks of the reservoir, everyone will be faced with the fact that the film will be laid in folds. At the same time, users are advised to make one large fold, and not many small ones. The formed fold can be pressed down with stones or glued to the main part of the film.

It is important that the laid film lies freely on the surface of the pit, without tension. Otherwise, after filling the pond with water, it can stretch even more and tear.

In order to fix the film, it is enough to dig an auxiliary trench. After laying the film, you can fix it with rods and fill the trench with rubble.

After the film is laid, the pit is filled with stones.

Tip: choose a large stone for the bottom. The flat bottom of the stone will prevent the possibility of tearing the film. For walls, it is better to use rounded stones, since flat ones slide.

Upon completion of the work, the pit is filled with water. Moreover, it must be served without pressure in the middle of the pit.

Only after the water in the pit has stood for 1-2 days can the film be cut off.

7.6 Strengthening the banks of the pond

A homemade pond in the garden will look well-groomed and reliable only when there are beautiful and strong banks.

Depending on the type of soil, the bank of the pond should have a slope:

• with chernozem or clay - it is allowed to make vertical walls;

• with sandy soil - inclined.

Practical users believe that the optimal slope for the shore of the reservoir is 45 °. Such an angle will prevent the shore from crumbling and will prevent ice bulging during freezing / thawing.

When finishing and decorating the banks of the pond, take into account the plants that will be planted on them. Since they all grow at different depths, you should take care of the landing shelves formed at a certain depth.

In the process of digging a pit, each owner will inevitably face the question of how to strengthen the bank of the pond.

The following engineering methods are suitable for strengthening the coast:

For a gentle coast:

• geomat;
• geogrid (perforated polymer);
• geogrid.

Craftsmen advise using a more familiar chain-link mesh, the cells of which are clogged with earth with clover seeds (or other perennial grasses) or to strengthen the shore of the pond with plants and bushes.

For a steep bank:

• gabions;
• piles (sheet piling or ordinary);
• retaining walls.

Biological methods can strengthen the coast just as well. The photo shows plants that can not only strengthen the shore, but also decorate an artificial reservoir.

Advice. For greater reliability, it is better to combine engineering and biological methods for strengthening the shore of a reservoir.

Stage 8 - Making a pond in the country with your own hands

A pond in the country will become a full-fledged design element of garden decor only when it is finalized.

To make a country pond natural or decoratively decorate a shaped pond, you can use:

• plants planted directly on the bottom of the pond. To do this, you need to put prepared plants in special containers on curtains (pond steps). Tip: Native plants do better in a pond;

• plants in tubs. To do this, any plant is planted in a tub (barrel, bucket, pot) and placed on the shore of the pond. The advantage of this way to decorate the coast is that you can use any, even exotic plants and constantly modify the look of the coastline;

• to equip the island of "dream" in the middle of the reservoir. Install on the island decorative rock a boulder or put a plant in a flower pot;

• run bright fish;

• lay beautiful stones.

Tip: it is better to intersperse the laying of large stones with the laying of smaller ones, in this way, it will be possible to avoid uniformity in the design of the coast.

• pave comfortable and beautiful paths from natural stone, gravel, saw cuts of wood or brick;

Tip: gravel paths require more maintenance as they are washed away by rain and grass grows through them.

• throw a bridge over a pond;

• complement it with a waterfall;

• install a beautiful fence made of wood or stone;

• organize a night illumination of the pond. Moreover, you can install LED lights, or place lights in transparent glass balls on the water mirror. They can be lowered to the bottom with the help of weights;

• install deck chairs or a gazebo on the shore of the pond.

Stage 9 - Caring for a pond in the country

• protection of the pond from the leaves will provide a mesh construction on a light frame.

• cloudy water, which will stay in the pond for 2-3 weeks, settles over time. In addition, the biological activity of small inhabitants will soon make it transparent.

• a net is useful to clear the pond of leaves;

• to raise the water level, you need to periodically top it up (with a bucket or a hose without pressure);

• you need to monitor the rate of spread of algae, in order to limit their growth, you can plant a cattail or nymphaeum (lily);

• shelter plants planted in a pond from the cold or bring them into the house;

• periodic cleaning of the reservoir will eliminate bottom debris;

Tip: The pond can be cleaned quickly and effectively in winter. To do this, it is enough to break the ice and take it out of the pond along with the silt.

• algicides - an emergency measure for cleaning the pond. But due to its high toxicity, you should not contact it unless absolutely necessary.

Stage 10 - Preparing the pond for winter

The pond, which is based on a special plastic bowl, can winter, because the bowl can withstand significant temperature changes. And so that it does not deform from the pressure created by ice, it is enough to place several empty plastic bottles in the container. Bottles must first be tightly closed with lids. To prevent the destruction of the bowl, 1 bottle is enough for 1 square meter containers.

But what about those who have a film pond - will the film crack from frost? If the depth of the pond exceeds the depth of freezing of the soil, you don’t have to worry. Empty bottles can also be used to protect smaller water bodies.

Important! All equipment and plants need to be covered for the winter.

Conclusion

In this article, we have covered all the key points of creating a pond with our own hands, from the idea to the care. We hope that we have dispelled doubts and given confidence in our abilities. Dare! And by the beginning of the season you will have a wonderful water spot in the countryside.

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O One of the best accents in landscape design can be an artificial reservoir. Such a structure will delight the owners of the site and will serve as a great place to relax. Many summer cottages limited in size and not suitable for large bodies of water, but with instructions and certain building skills, you can make a small pond in the country with your own hands step by step. Photos of all stages of installation will allow you to determine the technical side of the issue. Before installing the reservoir, you will need to prepare certain materials, select the appropriate project and read the recommendations from experts.

It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to build a beautiful pond in the country. From improvised options you can build a budget option

When deciding how to make a pond in the country with your own hands, you first need to decide on the size and shape of the structure. These parameters depend on the size of the site and the preferences of the owners. At the same time, the reservoir can be either of a strict geometric shape or have the natural contours of a natural pond.

The following requirements are imposed on the location of the future location of the water structure:

• the reservoir should not be illuminated by the sun's rays all day long, only 7-8 hours a day is enough. In intense light, water can bloom;
• the pond should not be located in a too shaded place;
• there should be no trees nearby, as foliage will pollute the water;
• the chosen place should not be strongly blown by the wind.

When choosing a good location, the terrain and a good view of the structure from any location are important.

If you plan to install a fountain in the pond, then you should take care of convenient electrification. There are no special rules for choosing the configuration of a structure. The pond can have any shape - asymmetric, winding, oblong or square.

Helpful information! The deeper the tank, the brighter the pond should be placed. If fish will live in the water, then it should be borne in mind that the amount of oxygen decreases in very hot water.

Do-it-yourself pond in the country house step by step: photo and installation guide

There are several ways to build a pond in the country with your own hands. Landscape photo ideas will help you choose. For quick installation work, it is worth purchasing a ready-made form. On sale there are special containers made of rubber rubber and reinforced plastic. Budget option considered an insulating film.

Installation using a ready-made form

After choosing a suitable place, the finished form must be laid on the ground and a contour drawn. A trench is made according to the marks. After installing the tank, it must be filled by a third and sand should be poured into the voids formed. The bowl is then filled with water. After shrinkage, plants are planted around the resulting reservoir, and a stone is laid.

Helpful information! Plastic containers are durable and easy to install, but such structures eventually collapse under the influence of ultraviolet rays. The best option is a fiberglass tank that is reinforced with a rubber backing.

Arrangement with film

At right approach you can equip a pond in the country with your own hands from a film. A step-by-step photo shows how to do such a job with high quality. For installation, you can choose the following colors of the film:

• black reflects clouds well, the bottom looks like a mirror;
• brown material imitates soil at the bottom;
• cream and blue film will give a resemblance to the pool and at the same time the fish are remarkably visible against such a background.

When choosing a material, you should pay attention to the composition of the material, thickness and resistance to mechanical damage. Bonding of the material is carried out with special glue. The use of a film may be accompanied by a preliminary arrangement of a sand cushion. The laid film should lie freely, without undue tension. After laying the material, the pit can be filled with stones. After the water has settled in the container for several days, the film can be cut.

Helpful information! The more complex the device of the reservoir, the stronger the film should be.

Features of water filtration and planting

The installation of a filter system must necessarily accompany the design of the pond in the country with your own hands. In this case, photos of the necessary work can be viewed on the site. This is especially important when launching fish into the water.

Filtration kits are available from stores. They are accompanied by instructions with which the installation of equipment is carried out. Planting is an important step. For landing at suitable for water arrowhead and tail. You can pick up floating crops: hyacinths and lilies. Ferns, reeds and reeds will look good around the reservoir.

Helpful information! An artificial reservoir must be cleaned periodically. In this case, the bottom should be cleaned of silt, leaves and other debris.

Related article:

Do-it-yourself pond in the country: landscape photo ideas and decoration

Do-it-yourself ponds in the country require special design. The photo displays the best design techniques. Figurines, stones and beautiful trees can be used as decor. Drops and uneven terrain allow you to build a reservoir with a cascade and a waterfall. original solution there will be a bridge or an artificial slide.

The finished building can be decorated with the following elements:

• underwater lighting looks bewitching, for this mini spotlights are mounted;

• For the installation of fountains, different types of pumps will be required.

Vegetation is considered an important decoration. It can be planted in baskets filled with earth and installed on the surface of the reservoir. Will look good side by side high grades plants.

Helpful information! Before purchasing fish, you need to clarify the conditions for their maintenance. Some types of fish are at enmity with each other, so you need to choose those that get along with each other.

Useful tips: how to equip a pond in the country with your own hands, video

• the pond is better to decorate with stones of different sizes. Harmonious combination blocks with small stones will create a magnificent view;

• when creating a reservoir, do not use sheer surfaces on which it is difficult to place plants;
• when landscaping, it is worth using containers that will prevent the strong growth of plants.

Helpful information! A special soil is required for planting aquatic crops. In this case, plants should not occupy more than half the area of ​​​​the reservoir.

How to prepare a pond for winter

The pond, made of a plastic bowl, tolerates the winter cold well. To prevent the bowl from deforming under a load of ice, several plastic bottles with sand can be lowered into the container.

In the case of a film construction, a similar method can also be used. In winter, equipment and plants should be covered. At the first appearance of leaf fall, the pond must be covered with a fine-mesh net. Before frosts, the reservoir is cleaned and water is pumped out. Plants and fish must be sent to winter in warm rooms. Pumps and filtering equipment should also be removed.

In the spring, the reservoir can be launched when night temperatures become above zero. Subject to all installation rules and in the presence of quality material, you can build a beautiful pond in as soon as possible. Using stylish decor elements will create a wonderful central composition on the site.