A beautiful pond. Questions about arranging a pond in the country: situations and nuances

How to turn your suburban area into a real paradise? Just. Need to create beautiful place pleasing to 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 big 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 reservoir, which is part of the landscape composition. Their purpose is to decorate a corner of the garden and please the eye. Leisure near such a pond is not expected.

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.

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.

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 kept in classical style or in modern, minimalist or high-tech styles.

Along with 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 the wrong coastline, natural look, creates the effect of proximity 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.

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 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 total area 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 studying 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 a lot building materials to create 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.

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

Provides unlimited possibilities from the point of view of the choice of 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.

Folk ways to make a pond from improvised materials

Bath pond

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

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.

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 its 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 time, it is necessary to provide for the 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. best solution will use butyl rubber (EPDM or synthetic rubber, as it is also called). 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 what to glue pvc film for the 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 required 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 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.

• lay comfortable and beautiful paths made of 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 beautiful fence from 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 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 per 1 square meter of capacity is enough.

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.

Vacation in the country is a favorite pastime for many people. Only a trip to the shore of a reservoir can argue with him. Having arranged an artificial pond in your country house, you can get a great place to get rid of fatigue and relaxation. Moreover, it will not be difficult to arrange an artificial reservoir with your own hands, you only need a little perseverance and imagination.

Types of reservoirs

Depending on what functionality you plan to endow the pond you have built, artificial reservoirs can be divided into several categories.

Swimming pool

This category includes artificial reservoirs of considerable size. Such a pond, built in the country with your own hands, as in the photo, has not only decorative properties, but also allows you to freshen up, or even swim, without leaving the site.

Pond with fish

The pond for breeding fish is suitable not only for lovers of fishing. Your family members, especially children, will enjoy spending time by the lake, watching bright and beautiful fish.

Mini pond in the country

A small reservoir, which is an element of landscape composition. It performs exclusively decorative functions and does not imply the placement of a recreation area around it.

Decorative pond in the garden

Garden pond, built by hand, which is the central place of the recreation area. The combination of sufficient size and beautiful design will not only please the eyes, but also give a pleasant coolness on a hot day.

Style

Having decided on the functionality of the reservoir, it is worth moving on to choosing the style in which the decorative pond in the country will be executed. There are two main options.

1. Formal (regular) pond. Artificial reservoir of strict geometric shape. Ideal if there is a desire to emphasize the geometric shapes of the building or the site itself. It creates a sense of order, looks appropriate next to geometrically regular flower beds, lawns and other decorative elements on the site.
2. Landscape pond in the country. It is carried out in any form and fits very easily into the surrounding landscape. This option is suitable for any style and looks as natural as possible. Its construction requires much less effort than the equipment of a geometric reservoir.

Location selection

Of great importance when organizing a pond in the country with your own hands, as in the photo in the article, is the terrain. On flat areas, you can place a pond in a garden of any style and size. Areas with irregularities create more difficulties when deciding how to make an artificial pond, but at the same time they can serve as natural cascades and elevations for waterfalls.

It is necessary to arrange a pond with a fountain in the country house with your own hands in an open area so that the reservoir is clearly visible from every corner of the country house. Depth ground water, the qualitative composition of the soil can affect the allowable depth of the reservoir, as well as the complexity of work and use additional materials. When thinking about how to build a pond in the country with your own hands, in addition to the terrain, it is worth considering a number of other important points.

1. Compatibility with the environment. Visible from all sides, a mini pond in the country should be combined with buildings and green spaces on the site.
2. Illumination of the site. It is preferable to choose the most shaded place on the site for the location of the reservoir. This will prevent increased water evaporation. In addition, with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, there is a high probability active development microorganisms in the water, which will negatively affect the aesthetic component.
3. Environment. Do not abuse the vegetation next to an artificial reservoir. The long and thick roots of large trees can lead to damage to the insulation layer over time, which in turn will require repair and putting the reservoir in order. Leaves falling into the water from tree branches located too close to the reservoir can lead to silting and will require regular cleaning. On clear days, nearby trees or buildings will be reflected on the surface of the water. Therefore, you should take care of a beautiful exterior in advance so that your eyes do not fall on a rickety shed or a dry, fallen tree.
4. Expansion of the reservoir. In the future, you may come up with the idea of ​​the need to increase the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe reservoir, additional functional and decorative elements. Therefore, it is worthwhile to provide a place in advance for the possible expansion of the reservoir in the country with your own hands.
5. Electrification. If you plan to install lighting next to or directly in a pond, or place an electric fountain or other movable structures, you should worry about laying all the necessary electrical wiring in advance. It is best to place the wires underground, protecting them with strong boxes or corrugation.

Size selection

Having chosen a place on the site that the pond will occupy in the garden, you should decide on the size of the future reservoir. Specialists involved in landscape design do not provide clear guidance in this regard. However, a do-it-yourself decorative pond built on suburban area should not occupy more than 8-10% of the area of ​​the site, because a larger structure will look bulky and alien.

The depth of the pond in the garden depends on the purpose for which it is created, as well as on the capabilities of the owner, who equips the pond with his own hands on the site. The photos below will help you make your choice.

Material selection

When arranging ponds in a summer cottage with your own hands, you should approach the choice of material with all care. There are many options for what material is better to use in order to equip a small pond in the country with your own hands.

The photos in the article and the following list highlight the following main categories.

Concrete pond

Capital construction, which is the most expensive option for arranging a pond in a country house. The advantages of using this material include increased strength and durability of use.

plastic container

An industrially made form of high-strength plastic allows you to solve the question as soon as possible: how to make a pond in the country with your own hands. Various shapes and sizes allow you to choose the option suitable for the most demanding owner.

PVC film or polyethylene film

The use of these materials makes it possible to create a garden pond with your own hands of absolutely any shape. The disadvantages of such a material include low resistance to external influences, and how short the service life

Butyl rubber membrane

A do-it-yourself garden pond made of such a film will please the eye longer than a decorative pond in the photo below made of polyethylene or PVC. When planning how to make a reservoir on the site with your own hands, it should be borne in mind that the life of the membrane reaches 50 years, and the increased resistance of butyl rubber to severe frosts makes it a very profitable material.

In order to save money, you can use various improvised materials. Old bathtub, basin or car tire for a mini pond - these and other "folk" remedies are used to create ponds in the country. Our photo gallery will tell others original ideas.

Necessary equipment

Depending on the functionality of the reservoir and the material from which it will be made, the following tools may be required during the creation process: a shovel, a cart for transporting excess soil, a level, pegs and a strong cord for marking, as well as a hose for irrigation. Such a set of tools will be enough to place mini ponds in the country with your own hands, as in the above photo. If the planned pond in the garden is of considerable size, it is worth evaluating the feasibility of using construction equipment. For a pond intended for fish farming or designed for a particularly long service life, it may be justified to install additional equipment:

1. An aerator that saturates the water with oxygen necessary for fish.
2. Pump for filling or draining water.
3. Cleaning filter.
4. A device for sterilizing water and removing dead algae.

Details of creating a pond from a film

PVC film, due to its performance and relatively low cost, is one of the most popular materials for arranging a pond. In addition, in order to make a pond with your own hands from PVC film, you do not need special skills and special knowledge.

For the arrangement of reservoirs, it is not necessary to use films with a thickness of less than 0.5 mm., And if it is planned to create a particularly deep reservoir, it is better to take a film with the maximum available thickness.

The use of a multi-colored film allows you to achieve different optical effects: a black film will make the bottom of the reservoir mirror, and it will clearly reflect the trees and buildings standing nearby, a brown film is perfect for simulating a ground bottom, and a film of light blue or cream tones will make the reservoir as transparent as possible, which will allow you to easily observe the movement of fish.

The selected film should be cut in such a way that it covers the bottom and walls of the reservoir, leaving a margin of up to one meter. Cut pieces must be connected with specialized glue or adhesive tape to similar works.

Before digging a pit, it is necessary to carefully consider the size, shape of the bottom and walls of the reservoir. If you plan to create a complex multi-stage structure, it is better to first draw a detailed diagram on a piece of paper indicating all dimensions.

Having marked the selected area, we proceed to digging a recess. It is better to remove the soil in the direction from the edges of the future reservoir to the center, gradually deepening to the required limits. The bottom and walls of the finished pit should be carefully examined for the detection of foreign objects, sharp roots, etc. Any debris found must be removed to avoid damage to the film. We lay out the prepared film on the rammed bottom of the pit, fixing it with stones and sprinkling soil around the edges.

Next, you need to strengthen the banks of the pond. For this you can use various materials. For gently sloping shores, a geogrid or a polymer grid is suitable; you can also use a regular chain-link mesh. For vertical banks, the use of piles or props will be required.

You can complete the design of the pond by adding various decorative elements, planting plants and installing underwater or outdoor lighting.

Plant decoration

When decorating a pond in the garden with plants, it is worth understanding that they are divided into those that are planted on the shore along the edges of the pond, and plants that live directly in the water. The root system of coastal plants will additionally strengthen the walls of the pond. When planting plants in a pond in the garden, it is important to keep in mind the speed of their growth, otherwise, after a long absence, there is a risk of finding a pond completely covered with a thick carpet of vegetation.

Decor

In order to decorate the pond in the yard with your own hands, in addition to various plants, beautiful stones and other decorative elements, the use of lighting gives a good effect. The colored glow spreading from under the water will create a beautiful decoration for your pond at night. Additional lighting can be placed above the water.

As a decor for decorating a pond in a country house with your own hands, as in the photo in the article, you can use various fountains. The functioning of the fountains is ensured by the operation of pumps that can be hidden at the bottom of the pond under the stones. Surface devices are also used. Pumps come in different capacities, which affects the height and intensity of the water jets.

fish

Ornamental fish can be launched into the pond in the country, when choosing which it is important to fully understand the conditions for their maintenance. It is worth buying such types of fish that get along well with each other and do not quarrel.

Pond Care

Decorative pond in the country requires some care. Planted plants must be sheltered from the cold or transferred to a warm room. During a long absence, the surface of an artificial reservoir in the country should be covered with a special net to protect it from debris. Leaves and other debris that have fallen into the country pond are caught with a net, and in case of formation a large number sludge must be cleaned of the reservoir. Water must be periodically renewed using a garden hose or a regular bucket for topping up (if specialized equipment is not available).

Photo gallery

In our photo gallery you will see more than 33 examples of beautiful ponds in the country.

I really want to relax after the summer heat and physical labor near a picturesque place. Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is water. Unfortunately, not all land owners are lucky to have a pond in their country house. Therefore, many summer residents equip a mini pond in the country with their own hands. We will talk about this in this article.

Perhaps at first you will have questions: how to do it? what material? where to place? But believe me, you can build a pond with your own hands. Moreover, we are talking about a small pond in the country - mini copies of reservoirs from 0.5 to 1.5 m3.

Design of the future pond

Thanks to today's technologies, the owner can build a pond of any complexity. For example, there are three possible options for a small pond: wrap a recess in the ground with a film and fill it with water; use finished container, which may be right at hand; fill the walls of the recess in the ground with concrete and fill with water.

Option 1

To get started, create a project for the future pond on paper. Consider the width, depth, and sills for planting. Start drawing contours on the ground. This can be done with paint or sand.

Purchase a film for your pond with a calculation of +0.5 m on the sides on the sides of the pit bowl. More purchases will be needed: geofabric is a material that is laid on the bottom and walls of the bowl to protect the film from damage. Although you can use something from the bins: an unnecessary carpet, old linoleum.

You can fix the film with rubble, laying it in trenches dug along the edges of the thresholds. Fill the pond with water gradually, taking breaks. Lay out the shore line with stones and cover the bottom of the pond with small pebbles.

Option 2

First, decide on the shape of the container in which the water will be. Then dig a pit under it, retreating 30 cm from the sides. Tamp the bottom so that it is even. If you have chosen a multi-tiered plastic mold, then pour water gradually, and fill the space between the form and the bowl of the pit with sand.

There are many more options for a small pond in the country. Can be used:

• Unnecessary bath. Mark the area with the dimensions of the bathroom, adding 10 cm on the sides. Dig the pit 20 cm deeper. Under the drain hole of the bathtub, make a drain with stones for draining. Pour crushed stone with sand at the bottom of the pit and tamp it down.
• Taz. We take the path of least resistance and use the most budgetary option, because even a leaky basin can be used by covering the hole with a film. Leave the edges of the basin above the ground. Under the bottom and between the walls of the basin and the pit, lay a layer of a solution of clay and sand. Fill the bottom of the basin with soil to plant the duckweed and bury it, or whatever you choose. Such a pond will be miniature and beautiful.

And more tires, a barrel, a boat, or even old wardrobe! It is convenient that some of these containers can be brought into the house for the winter. Indeed, making a pond with your own hands is not difficult!

How to make a pond from the bathroom (video tutorial)

Option 3

I think many will agree that to build a pond according to the third option, some, at least basic builder skills are needed. But at the same time, do not let this scare you, because any summer resident or owner of a plot in the private sector is already a bit of a builder. And as a reward for your work, you will have an almost eternal piece of paradise in your yard.

Stages of construction of a reservoir in the country (video)

Seriously approach the choice of the location of the pond, because it will be impossible to move it. Now you can start.

If you decide to make a reservoir without thresholds, then this will greatly simplify the task. Dig a pit with slopes at 45 degrees. Tamp the hole and fill it with sand.

Lay a PET or PVC film on the bottom, without pulling it hard. Start pouring concrete from the walls, and then go to the bottom.

Try to do this part of the work in one day to avoid cracks at the joints.

Press in reinforced mesh. Pour the second layer of concrete as soon as the first one dries. Constantly check the level of the horizon. Pour in water when the concrete is completely cured.

Before deciding on the option of building a pond, decide which design idea will look especially organic on your site. If the house, paths and flower beds are designed in a strict style, feel free to break a clear-cut pond. If you like everything natural, then any free form will do.

Decide on a place

How to make all the inhabitants of the pond feel comfortable? If you have a large plot of land, then carefully study the area so as not to make a mistake with the choice. There are several secrets that we will share with you.

• The roots of old trees can interfere with the work, and over time, even the walls of the reservoir. Also, falling leaves and fruits will make you clean your pond often.
• Choose a place with the expectation that the pond will be in the shade for some time so that algae and microorganisms do not develop too actively in it.
• At the same time, the sun is needed for plants along the bank. So you have to search best option considering these nuances.
• If your pond is small but deep, then make sure that it is always in sight when children play nearby. And why hide such beauty from the eyes?
• Best of all, the reservoir will look in the hollow. They almost always go down to the lake, river, sea.

Consider a possible ecosystem

If you want fish to live in your pond and flowers to bloom, then a few rules from this section will help you.

Plant selection

Decorative flowers in the pond do not suffer from temperature changes and can even tolerate frost (of course, except for the southern varieties of plants that will need to be hidden for the winter). But still, make sure that the water in the pond will be heated by the sun for at least five hours during the day.

The less light, the faster the mini pond in the country will turn into a small swamp. Then it will look completely unattractive, a characteristic smell and flowering will appear.

In nature, an amazing process of self-purification has been launched, and at home, the owner should take care of the cleanliness of the reservoir.

As in a natural pond, plants in a home pond are divided into the following types:

• those that grow on the shore;
• those that grow in a humid zone on the border with water;
• floating on the surface;
• shallow and those that grow at depth.

Although the air humidity will be higher on the shore along the pond than in other places, simple garden plants they can live there. But still, consider that they do not look ridiculous or casual next to other inhabitants of the pond. Begonias, aquilegia, balsam and many other perennial plants that are used to decorate landscapes will harmoniously combine.

A zone with constant humidity, but without stagnant water, is the best place for moisture-loving perennials. Among such stars are meadowsweet (meadowsweet), lysichiton, darmer, iris and many others.

A water lily can rightfully be called a deep-sea queen. She copes well with harsh winters. Water lilies are not only beautiful, but also useful. It is they who can create the shadow necessary for the pond. Among other deep-sea beauties, the lotus (although it needs to be dug up for the winter, because in most of the territory of the former USSR the water does not warm up for almost 8 months, as it is necessary for the flowering of such varieties), water paint, oronium, water chestnut and many other bizarre inhabitants of the depths.

Rivals of deep-sea plants are algae, which saturate pond water with oxygen and support the vital activity of other organisms. Among them are the swamp, hornwort, etc.

Animal inhabitants

Insects, microorganisms and protozoa will start up in your pond on their own. You will have to take care of the fish yourself.

But don't think that you can't get them. In fact, there is nothing supernatural here. Check the depth of your pond - it should be at least 90 cm deep. This is necessary for the fish, because this way they can overwinter. And in summer the water does not warm up too much. Smaller ponds are suitable only for growing ornamental plants.

By the way, in ponds with fish, a third of the surface of the water should be covered with greenery.

For waterproofing artificial reservoirs the most commonly used butyl rubber membrane (EPDM). This is no coincidence: thanks to the ability to stretch, it takes the form of a bed without tension and voids. However, a pond with rubber banks looks ugly. What is the best way to shape its edge?

Water will hide everything

This can only be said about the deep-water zone of the reservoir. A few weeks after filling the pond with water, the membrane is covered with a coating, and at a depth it is no longer so noticeable. artificial look. But the shallow water area and especially the visible part of the coast need to be decorated, otherwise the pond will have an unfinished look. To do this, it is important to correctly execute the upper edge of the bowl.

Usually it ends with a low roller, the crest of which is aligned strictly in a horizontal plane. This compensates for the roughness of the earth's surface and makes the edge of the bowl parallel to the water level. A membrane is thrown over the roller and fastened behind it. A roller of sand or soil usually crumbles over time, releasing some of the water from the pond, so it must be removed from a more stable material. Most often, a "belt" made of concrete is used, sometimes made of plastic and even metal.

Strengthening the shore of the pond , you can start decorating the butyl rubber film. Pebbles, sand, stones, boardwalk serve as a material for a beautiful design of the coast. A wonderful element of decor can be lawn grass, shrubs, large-leaved perennials, or creeping plants, such as loosestrife (photo 1). If the reservoir is located in a lowland and there will be a lawn or other plantings at its edge, drainage is needed around the entire perimeter of the pond. For a beautiful lawn, the soil must be fertile.

With abundant watering or heavy rains, it nutrients will fall into the pond and become available not only to terrestrial plants, but also to unicellular algae, which is why the water in the pond will acquire a greenish tint. Drainage will prevent this. A drainage channel in the form of a pipe covered with rubble must be laid along the side of the reservoir and brought into the drainage drain. You can decorate it with a small layer of loose soil, pebbles or rubble (photo 2).

Large body of water in natural style

When decorating shallow water and the coast, it is best to use stones and pebbles. Moreover, the more different fractions, the more natural and interesting both the pond itself and the coastal zone look (photo 3).

On gentle banks, you can lay non-woven material over the film, lay stones on top and then fill the voids with pebbles. In addition to ease of installation, the advantage of such decoration is environmental friendliness.

Pebbles are a habitat for bacteria that cleanse the pond. The inconvenience of this method usually manifests itself after a few years when flushing the reservoir. It will take a lot of effort to clean it clean. You can lay stones and pebbles on concrete base- then they lie more stable. At the same time, decorativeness is not lost, and washing such a reservoir is much easier. There is only one drawback - cement is in contact with water and makes it more alkaline. It has been noticed that many filamentous algae, popularly called mud, prefer lime water.

Vegetable soil can also be used to decorate EPDM membranes in very large and deep water bodies. It has a lot of organic matter, which will quickly overgrow a small pond with aquatic plants or filamentous algae and make it look like a puddle. And in large reservoirs, the backfilled shore will eventually become overgrown with grass and will look like a natural one.

Pond with sheer walls

In this case, the decoration with stone and pebbles will require more skilled work. The stones are laid with the end part to the wall of the reservoir on the solution (cement, sand and tile adhesive external 2:4:1). This method is good for building deep reservoirs with a relatively small mirror area (photo 4).

Rounded stones or large pebbles can decorate the walls of swimming ponds.

In small reservoirs with vertical walls, laying natural stone "steals" the volume. Here you can use, for example, a PVC film with small pebbles glued to it. True, it is not much more beautiful than the membrane: the glue is very clearly visible, and in those places where the pebbles have peeled off, it can no longer be attached back. In specialized shops for the construction of ponds, you can buy coconut canvas. Although it looks like a rare fabric, it copes well with decorative functions (photo 5).

It is better to fasten it immediately during construction or leave more mortgages in the side, since when wet, the canvas can sag and the edge of the film will be visible. Its color may seem too bright, but over time it will acquire a neutral hue.

Pond at the recreation area

It is quite easy to solve the edge problem if the reservoir is surrounded by a recreation area (photo 6).

Even if the site adjoins the pond on only one side, you can frame it with the same material. If the site is paved with natural stone, then its thickness should be 3 cm or more. The paving should be laid with an overlap of 5-7 cm above the water - then, when the reservoir is filled, the edge of the film will practically not be visible. During the construction of such a pond, it is necessary to provide for the overflow of excess rain or flood water into a drainage ditch. Otherwise, the area around the pond, laid on a concrete base, may be flooded when the reservoir overflows.

Another classic and very beautiful option decorating the shore of a reservoir - wooden flooring made of larch or pine impregnated with oil (photo 7).

If a wooden crafts do not come into contact with water, then this is a fairly durable design. You can use boards made of composite material, outwardly almost indistinguishable from wood, but even more durable.

Many gardeners dream of at least a small pond in their garden, but not all of them are able to decide on the realization of the idea. This is due to the fact that the majority considers the very idea of ​​arranging a reservoir unrealistic or, at least, requiring serious financial investments.

However, in reality, there is nothing particularly complicated about this. And we will try to convince you by telling you in this article what garden ponds are and how they can be built quickly and without special costs.

general information

To begin with, let's talk in more detail about exactly which reservoirs exist and which of them are quite realistic to equip yourself. It's no secret that, for example, a swimming pool will not only require serious financial resources and a large area of ​​the garden, but also the obligatory observance of certain sanitary and hygienic conditions.

But decorative reservoirs will require the creation of a special ecosystem that will prevent the rapid clouding of water and provide excellent aesthetic characteristics.

Variety of styles

An artificial pond in the garden is most often built in two styles.

The classic style assumes the correct form:

• round;
• square;
• rectangular, etc.

This type is ideal for so-called classical landscapes.

Note.
To accentuate strict angles and straight lines, it is recommended to frame the pond ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware.
This will add even more rigor to the ordered style, making it more symmetrical.

The second style is landscape, which can have absolutely any shape and outline of the coastline. Ideal for garden plots with an arbitrary layout.

To give even more naturalness, when arranging it is recommended to do:

• gentle descent;
• plant moisture-loving plants;
• put stones on the bottom (preferably without sharp edges).

By the way, regarding moisture-loving plants, which can be located, depending on the species, both in the water and on the shore, they are ideal:

• water lilies;
• fern;
• day-lily;
• loosestrife and others like them.

Location selection

The overall atmosphere in the garden depends on the right place for the pond.

Therefore, when choosing a site, consider the following requirements:

• optimum level of illumination- for example, in the first half of the day the sun, and in the second - a light shadow;
• Free access;
• availability of space for arranging the area around it and planting plants.

It is also important to avoid having trees nearby because:

• an excess of shade will lead to a rapid mudding of the pond;
• the root system, growing, damage the sides;
• in autumn, falling leaves will constantly clog the water.

Ideal dimensions

The size of the pond should be strictly related to the size of your site:

• a large pond in a small garden will look cumbersome, visually suppressing other elements - bushes, trees, lamps, etc .;
• too small in a large area will simply be lost, and will look like an inappropriate puddle.

Note. The created lake should be related to the size of the garden approximately one to ten.
So you will be able to create a pond that fits perfectly into the backyard.

Variety of decorative designs

Picking up a design is not a problem - you can buy it in specialized gardening stores, since the price is not so high. Or found in nature.

So, the following details will look most impressive:

• natural stones;
• natural stones;
• vegetation;
• fountains;
• waterfalls.

Note. If the depth of the lake exceeds fifty centimeters, then it is recommended to plant the plants on the bottom in pots.
Pots should be filled with gravel mixed with sand.
So the plants will not only decorate, but will also provide water purification.

Waterproof film pond

This section presents detailed instructions, telling how to make a pond in the garden with your own hands, using a special film for this, capable of withstanding for many years Negative influence high humidity. Clearly follow the detailed sequence of actions.

At the initial stage, it is necessary to make at least a schematic plan, which will indicate:

• the location of the lake;
• its depth and breadth;
• the possible presence of "shelves" for the installation of plants;

Advice!
Don't neglect making a plan.
So you can foresee everything and avoid rework, both during construction and after its completion.
In addition, this will allow you to calculate in advance the required amount of certain building materials.

The next step involves creating markings for the pit - how exactly you will do it does not matter, the main thing is to outline the contour and make sure that the shores of the future lake are located on the same level.

Earthworks must be carried out in the following sequence:

• dig the coastal layer;
• mark the line of the next deepening;
• select the second layer of earth;
• again draw lines for the deepest part of the lake;
• remove ground.

So you can make a gentle descent into the pond or a kind of shelf for planting.

Note. To prepare the pit, it is best to seek help from professionals or use the services of an excavator.
If you decide to save money, then be prepared for hard work.
Although, if the lake is small, then its foundation pit can be dug in a few hours.

Many people have a question - what to do with the land?

There are several options for solving the problem:

• its distribution over the site for a general rise in the level of the garden;
• complete the construction of an alpine slide;
• create beds or flower beds.

The next step is to measure the depth of the pit. Use a regular cord and add at least fifty centimeters for allowances to the resulting depth. Naturally, you need to measure both in width and length - this is necessary in order to purchase a film of the right size.

By the way, you need to be as careful as possible with the film so as not to damage it, including possible foreign objects that may be at the bottom of the pit:

• stones;
• roots, etc.

To do this, you must first lay an additional layer of:

• geotextiles;
• roofing material;
• or old linoleum.

You can also just make a bed of good, clean sand and carefully compact it.

Before laying the film along the edges of the pit, at a short distance from it - an indent of a few centimeters is enough - dig a trench. In it you will lay the edges of the film. Straighten it to avoid lumps, compression and other defects.

Advice. Film laying is recommended to be carried out on a warm, sunny day.
So the film warms up and becomes more elastic and pliable, it will easily go around all the edges and protrusions of the pit and other obstacles that may be present at the bottom.

To securely fix the edges of the film in the trench, cover it with crushed stone. Now you can start arranging the edge of the pond.

First of all, you need to strengthen it - use for this:

• stone blocks;
• plastic pipes - they should be attached to installed wooden pegs.

Such strengthening is necessary in order to prevent shedding of the earth under the film.

To decorate the edge, as well as to hide the crushed stone filling that holds the edges of the film, use a variety of decorating materials:

• natural stone;
• porcelain stoneware;
• ordinary boulders.

The next stage is the arrangement of the pit:

• lay rubble and boulders at the bottom;
• prepare pots for plants;
• arrange them along the edges of the pit.

Now you can pour water into the prepared pond. If you have the opportunity to constantly replenish the amount of water, then arrange a kind of gravity flow - this will ensure the circulation of water and prevent it from stagnation.

For this you need:

• the source of the stream must be slightly raised so that it is above the level of the pond;
• a conventional pump will help supply water to the source;
• to make the stream look attractive and not spoil the overall picture, be sure to decorate it - natural stones and small plants are suitable for this purpose.

That's all. The reservoir is ready.

Now take care of it:

• remove contaminants in a timely manner;
• use preventive cleaning and disinfection products;
• fight algae;
• For the winter, do not forget to remove the plants.

How to avoid mistakes

To make the man-made lake look as attractive as possible, the following is not recommended:

• for arranging the edges, use stones of strictly the same diameter;
• use only large stones for the coastal zone;
• create deep pits with sheer walls.

Before you try to realize your dream, think carefully and evaluate your financial and labor opportunities. Be sure to develop a clear plan in which all the little things will be provided - this will allow you to be guaranteed to avoid possible mistakes.

In conclusion

A small pond will be an excellent decoration of the garden, although it can also be used as a functional element of the local area. We have brought you a simple and fast method creating a reservoir, and the additional video in this article will help you better understand all the above information.