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If you want to change your backyard into a beautiful oasis of relaxation, one way to do so is to have a water garden. While the garden will provide you with beauty and class in your yard, it also can attract a variety of different wildlife as well. As you think about getting started on your water garden, there are a few things you will want to consider before you begin construction.
First of all you will need to consider whether you would like to have fish in your water garden. Many people enjoy stocking their gardens with a variety of fish such as goldfish and Koi. If you decide that you want to have fish, then you will need to do a bit of preparation. A proper pH is important for the survival of the fish, and should be between 6.5 and 8.4 for the best results. You also will need to be sure that you treat your water to get rid of any chlorine, which can kill the fish. If you intend to keep your fish outside all year long, then the water in the pond will need to be deep enough so that the water will never freeze completely. While fish can survive on leaves and algae, it is important that you provide them with some fish food too.
Next you will want to decide where you want to place the pond. You will want to avoid having it close to trees that shed their leaves. It is best to place your water garden in an area that is bright and sunny and away from trees or bushes that may drop debris. If you do decide to have fish in your pond, you may want to have a bit of shade for your fish, so choose a place that is near some bushes that will not drop a lot of leaves in your pond.
You also need to consider what size you need for your pond. If you decide that you want fish, you are going to have to make sure that it is large enough for the fish and that even as they grow it will be large enough as well. You may also want to consider other wildlife, such as frogs that may move into your pond. It is important that your pond is big enough for the wildlife you want, but it needs to be easy to maintain as well.
There are several plants out there that thrive in ponds. You will need to decide which ones you'd like to place in yours. There are flowers that live in ponds. There are also lily pad plants that frogs tend to enjoy. Most of the plants that live in ponds are green and some are leafy, but there are the flowering varieties as well. The flowers are limited, but add nice color to a pond with lots of green plants floating about in it.
Having a pond can add beauty and relaxation to your yard. No doubt you will enjoy the relaxation it provides and the fun of keeping it up. There is not a great deal to do for upkeep once you have built your water garden, and the costs are minimal as well, which makes it a great investment for your yard.