 Installing a Preformed Pond Choose and Mark the Location – Many brands of preformed pond liners come with a template that you cut out and lie on the ground. If yours does not have one, then you can lay the form upside down. Following the edge of the form or template, mark the outline of your pond using spray paint. Start digging – Following the outline that you marked, begin digging your pond. Add 1” to the depth to allow for the leveling sand that you’ll add later.
Adjust the Shape and Depth – Once the hole is dug, check the shape and depth by putting the pond form into the hole you’ve just dug and walk around in it. The form should fit snugly in the hole with out moving or buckling under your weight. If you’ve over-dug, you can add soil back to the area where it is needed and tamp it down so it doesn’t settle later. You can also use sand to do this.
Install the Pump and Filter – Once the pond form is solidly in position, place the pump and filter into the pond. It should be placed on a brick or stone to ensure that it pulls water away from the debris on the bottom of the pond. Following the manufacturers instructions, install the fountain head to the top of the pump. Install the Underwater Lights – According to the manufactures directions, install the underwater lights. They should be placed facing away from the viewing area or underneath the waterfall or the fountain head.  Add the plants – Before adding water, place the aquatic plants into the pond. Aquatic plants have different depth requirements, so it may be necessary to place a flat stone under the pot to bring the crown of the plant closer to the water surface. Fill the Pond – Now it’s time to fill the pond. If it is perfectly level, you can fill it to the very top. Otherwise a good level is one inch from the lip of the pond form.
Add the Bacteria – Once the pond is filled, add bacteria to the water to help keep the water clear and jumpstart the balancing of the ecosystem. Stream and Waterfall – Preformed ponds can be accessorized to improve the appearance or decrease the maintenance. One way to improve the appearance is to add a stream and waterfall. Some preformed kits include a preformed watercourse.
Concealing the Edge – Stone is used to conceal the top edge of the preformed pond. To do this it should extend a few inches over the edge of the preformed pond form. Stabilize the stones by adding soil or sand underneath them.
Now you’re ready to be a water gardener. So sit back and reap the rewards of your hard work!
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