Building Koi garden ponds takes a lot of time, effort, and special consideration. First of all, you need to understand a bit about the Koi fish, which is a Japanese fish shaped rather like a drum. They are notoriously vibrant and playful, which makes them an ideal backyard "pet." Having this type of pond requires full time attention. However, given the fact that simply watching Koi can relieve stress, it is well worth the effort.

Building a Koi pond takes a lot of effort as well, but it is well worth it. Still, before you begin building yours, you should make sure you have the time necessary to devote to it. You also need all the proper resources. You have to be prepared to care for both the fish and the pond.

A Koi pond also requires special construction, beginning with its location. Namely, you have to realize and remember that Koi fish should not be in direct sunlight. Bearing that in mind, the pond should be constructed accordingly. You should not place it under any trees unless they do not shed. The dry leaves can cause the pH level in the water to raise dangerously high. The best place to place a pond is within walls.

When considering the size of the Koi garden, you need to remember that these fish can get quite big. They can be as much as three feet long and weigh as much as forty pounds. Thus, their pond needs to be large enough to accommodate their growth. As well, since Koi are social fish which do not like to be alone, you should plan to have at least three or four fish at the onset.

These gardens require a lot of pond maintenance as well. This can be made easier by implementing either a pond liner or a pre-made pond. However, by all accounts, pond liners are the superior choice. They allow you to chance the size of the pond very easily.

When building a Koi pond, feel free to include aquatic plants and other features. Underwater plants will provide plenty of controlled nutrients to the fish. They will also keep the fishes safe from the sun. Water lilies, dwarf papyrus, cannas, lily pads, irises, and similar plants and flowers are ideal. However, they must be inaccessible to the fish, which like to nibble on plants. You should also line the bottom with gravel and pebbles. These allow beneficial bacteria to breed.

Finally, you have to consider the water in your Koi garden pond. It requires special specifications all its own. Because these fish are very sensitive, you need to keep a close eye on the pH levels. It should be neutral. Filters and aeration systems can help you keep the water clean and healthy, as can a bottom drain.