Water features as part of landscaping has become a common occurrence. These enticing areas, allow home owners to have their own private retreat. Many homeowners find that they enjoy making their own ponds and water features; adding to the unique character that is a water feature.

Building Koi Ponds That Last

Building Koi ponds needs proper planning. Building Koi ponds involves making sure the depth of the pool will be appropriate for the fish. This type of pond needs to be bigger in order to allow for the Koi fish to continue growing. These fish can get very big, up to three feet long. Building Koi ponds big enough to allow for this size fish will take some planning. Make sure the area selected can be dug out to at least two feet deep.

The minimum water needed for building Koi ponds is 900gallons; but that is on the low end of water needed. Remember these fish get large, make the pond big enough. No one wants to have to expand their pond. Building Koi ponds that can maintain the fish through winter is another consideration. The water needs to be deep enough that it doesn’t freeze solid. If the pond does freeze on top, do not smash the ice. This can cause damage to the fish.

A water filtration system is another important step when building Koi ponds. These ponds need to be kept clean. Several filters may be needed and a pump to circulate oxygen in the water is another necessity. A pump can be used to create a water fountain, this will not only add beauty, but allow for further circulation of the water. Both of these items can be purchased at specialty stores where more information can be obtained.

Make sure the environment is right when building Koi ponds. Discover which types of plants can be added. Make sure to protect the plants roots as Koi will eat them and kill the plants. Use rocks to create an obstacle for the Koi; not only will this help the plants, but create an attractive setting in the water.

As odd as this may seem, many people loose their Koi to predators. Determine what type of predators could be a problem for the Koi. When building Koi ponds, it may be a good idea to install some motion detector for lights to come on. This may be enough of a deterrent. If not, a scarecrow is always a good choice and netting can be placed over the Koi pond to prevent birds from being a problem.

Building Koi ponds can be an exciting adventure. Not only are they beautiful, they are a relaxing and comfortable space in a yard.