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Adding Serenity To Your Outdoor Landscape With A Pond
By Jim Carpenter

Water features bring plenty of beauty and serenity as a focal point to a yard. Using a pond in your landscaping design will provide interest, attract wildlife and even become a home for fish that you might choose to keep. Water features are becoming increasing popular, so finding ideas on ponds in landscaping books and on websites does not require much searching. Once you have decided to add a pond to your landscape design, you will begin the process of selection to ensure that your pond is functional as well as beautiful. The first choice you must make is the location of your pond in your landscape plan. Keep in mind that most ponds require some digging, so stay away from underground utility lines. You also want to avoid placing your pond underneath trees, unless you happen to like fishing leaves out of the water in the fall! Too much direct sunlight can contribute to an algae problem in your pond, so a location that receives filtered light or some shade is preferable.

Materials For Landscaping Your Pond

Once your location has been determined for your pond, you will need to look into materials to create your water feature. Fiberglass shells are extremely popular for ponds since they are easy to install and even easier to maintain. The shells come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be found at your local garden store. Of course, once the shell for your pond is in place, landscaping around the pond is an important consideration. Rocks and plants can create a lovely backdrop for the water and finish off a restful oasis for you to enjoy. Lighting your pond landscape can be another consideration if you would like to enjoy your water feature after dark. Include seating nearby so you and guests can have the pleasure of conversation in a serene setting.

If you want to maintain the charm of your setting, you will need to keep your pond clean and algae free. One way that you can keep your pond water clear is to place gravel at the bottom of your pond. Gravel provides a biological filter for your water as well as protection and stability for your pond liner. You can also bring plants into your pond landscape. Aquatic plants will provide shade, food and shelter for any critters that make your pond their home. Even algae are a good aquatic plant to include – as long as they don't get out of control. Finally, the type of water you fill your pond with will affect the ease of maintenance. Before you grab that hose, know that tap water has minerals that could encourage the growth of algae. Contact your garden center for advice on filling your pond, but keep in mind that rainwater is really the best source.

A pond adds beauty to a landscape, as well as providing a haven for wildlife. With proper planning, a pond landscape can be low maintenance as well as an attractive water feature for your yard.

Author Details:
Jim Carpenter writes for various websites about landscaping. He is a landscape contractor with many years experience in all areas of landscaping, organic gardening and outdoor furniture such as BBQ grills.

You can visit his site at www.sandaservicesinc.com

Article Source: Free Article Directory

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