Using a Pond Kit to Create a Tranquil Space in Your Yard

     Life can be hectic and when life gets that way people start dreaming of vacations and other escapes. Unfortunately, it's not always possible to get time off from work or have the funds available to take a trip. Thankfully, you don't have to worry about time off or saving up for a vacation when you have a yard or garden space. You can take advantage of your space by incorporating things that will create a sanctuary or tranquil relaxation space in your yard. One way to accomplish your goal would be to build a Koi pond near a seating area beneath a tree. You can create a spot where you could spend your weekends listening to the soothing sound of water while you relax.

Planning and building a Koi pond isn't as difficult as you may think. Many retailers today even provide you with a kit that has everything that you need to create a pond already included. Some manufacturers even have kits that include the Koi! Most of the kits available to the general public have been created so that the average Do-It-Yourselfer can handle the installation in a weekend. There are pond kits that contain a preformed pond, like those sold by Beckett, and those are great if you don't mind sticking to a prearranged design. If, on the other hand, you want to get the creative juices flowing and design your own pond then you'll want to get a kit that has a PVC liner instead of the preform Pond from companies like Sunterra or Aquascape.

When you buy a pond kit you'll get almost everything you need to create your own pond. Complete kits include: pond liner or preformed pond, pumps, skimmers, filters, and all the tubing and connectors you'll need. Don't forget to get a kit that includes an aerating with the filter to make your pond more hospitable to Koi. You will have to supply a few things yourself. You'll need tools for connecting tubing and adjusting the grade of your pond. You'll also need a shovel unless you're installing a large size or double pool pond. For larger ponds you may want to rent a small bobcat to help you move the dirt. You might want to dig a trench for the electrical line you'll need to run your filter. Protecting your electrical line inside PVC piping that is then covered with dirt in the trench you created will ensure that the line won't be disturbed later. Don't forget to mark it on the blueprint of your home so you can find it again later.

To ensure your pond lasts a long time you'll need gravel, sand, and ornamental rocks to help hold your liner in place. The sand goes under the liner or preform and then the gravel goes on top at the bottom of your pond to weigh down the preform or liner. Ornamental rocks can be used to hold down the edges of the liner or preform and can also be used to create a waterfall. Many people like to create a waterfall or babbling brook to feed into their ponds and help with filtration and water circulation. Another advantage to including a waterfall is that the sound of running water is soothing and will help aid in the creation of a tranquil space.

If you get one of the pond kits that has been created specifically for Koi then you will be supplied with the additives needed to ensure your pond is safe for your fish. If your kit doesn't include the additives then you'll need to treat your pond once the work is done. You will need to let the pond settle for a little while and let the filters run so that you know your equipment is working properly. Before you bring the Koi to their new home test the PH of the water to make sure it is properly balanced to the level that your fish need.

To dress your pond and make it more appealing to you, your visitors, and the Koi consider adding submerged plant life as well as floating water plants like water lilies. The plants will provide additional food as well as shelter. This is especially important if your pond isn't protected from the sun with shade. Surround your pond with plants you'd expect to find around a water source. These plants will beautify your space and help create the natural sanctuary you wanted.

Installing a pond in your space is easier than you think and has many rewards. With a little hard work you'll create a space suited to a relaxing weekend. Now that your pond has settled so the Koi can explore their new home and you've finished creating a seating area it is time to sit back and enjoy all of your hard work. Take a break from the chaos of your life in your own private backyard retreat.