One of the brightest tools in landscape design is the decorative pond. Of course, most of the suburban areas are limited to the traditional six hundred square meters, and the owners simply cannot build a large reservoir, but because of this, you should not give up the dream of acquiring an artificial pond. As for the technical part, it will not become an obstacle, but subject to the availability of good instructions and desire. So, today we will find out how to make a pond in the country with our own hands step by step.

First, you should find out what purpose the construction of a pond on the site will pursue. From this point of view, water bodies can be conditionally divided into four large groups.

Table # 1. Classification artificial reservoirs by functionality

Group name	Short description
	They are an element landscape composition and are intended primarily to decorate a particular area of ​​the garden. Active rest is not provided near such reservoirs.
	They are deeper and are often decorated with fountains, bridges, sometimes they are equipped with lighting. Such ponds are erected near a house or a gazebo, benches with awnings are placed next to them. Therefore, it is quite obvious that such reservoirs are the heart of the recreation area for residents of the house.
	Such option will do not only for avid fishermen, but also for families with children - the latter will enjoy watching bright fish while relaxing in nature.
	They also belong to artificial summer cottages and not only perform an aesthetic function, but also provide an opportunity to freshen up or even swim (it all depends on the size).

Then, based on the goal and our capabilities, we proceed to the choice of style, location, size and shape.

Second phase. Determining the style

An artificial pond can be done in one of two possible options, and each of them also has a great variety of modifications.

Table 2. Artificial reservoir styles

Name	Short description
	This name exactly reflects the essence - these are designs that differ in clearly defined outlines. The geometry of the pond, which is correct in terms of geometry, is suitable for those areas that are decorated in the style of minimalism, high-tech, modern or classic. But, which is characteristic, the shape can be not only rectangular, but also square, round, oval, broken.
	They are more popular, because they are characterized by naturalness and irregular outlines of the banks, which means they seem to bring a person closer to nature. The shape of the reservoir here depends only on personal preference, but the more complex it is, the more difficult it will be to lay the film (more on this later).

The relief of the site also plays an important role in choosing a style. So, if the surface is sufficiently flat, then the shape of the pond can be any. If there are irregularities and drops on the site, then they need to be given special attention, but they make it possible to additionally equip a cascade or a waterfall. In addition, against the background of all this, an artificial slide, for example, will look great.

Also, the reservoir can be raised somewhat above the ground. In this case, the construction technology will differ only in the arrangement of the foundation, which will prevent possible distortions of the bowl.

When creating such a reservoir, earthwork is minimized, and it will be much easier to care for it.

Note! If the reservoir is to be built with a fountain, then preference should be given to a high construction.

Stage three. Choosing a place

Let's start by placing the reservoir in the most good location so that you can admire your creation from anywhere on the site. That is why, when choosing, we take into account several important factors.

1. Land area. Not only the size of the pond, but also its shape directly depends on it.
2. Illumination... It is preferable to place an artificial reservoir in a shaded place, in which the exposure to direct rays of the sun does not exceed five to six hours a day, otherwise part of the water may simply evaporate. Moreover, for sunlight biological activity can develop, which is unlikely to be able to decorate the pond. Therefore, having chosen a specific place on the site, we observe the solar regime for several days.
3. Relief... The shape of the pond depends on it, and it also simplifies the device. additional elements(e.g. fountains).
4. Groundwater level, soil composition. These indicators affect not only the depth of the reservoir, but also the complexity of the work and the need for additional consumables.

Note! The deeper the pond, the more illuminated it should be placed. If the reservoir is intended for fish, then we treat the location even more responsibly, since the oxygen content in highly heated water decreases.

1. Expandability... We do not forget about the perspective, therefore, on the one hand, we leave free space.
2. Visibility... It is advisable to arrange the reservoir so that it can be seen from home and recreation areas.
3. Power supply... If a fountain or lighting is additionally equipped, then we will think over electrification in advance. It is better to lay the wires even during development, moreover, underground and in a reliable protective corrugation. There should be small access hatches at the connections.
4. Reflection. The pond will look more attractive if the surface reflects the sky or beautiful buildings, and not some kind of utility structure.
5. Landscaping. The vegetation near the pond is, of course, beautiful, but the leaves will pollute it and form silt. Moreover, the root systems of trees can damage the waterproofing layer.
6. Compatible with general design and other objects.

We begin work in the spring - this way we will have enough time for the reservoir to "take root" on the site.

Stage four. Determine the size

It is difficult to say that a large pond will cost more than a small one, since there are many nuances here. Therefore, we will consider the key points.

1. Dimensions. They depend on the location of the reservoir. Many say that the pond should make up on average 3-10% of the total area of ​​the site, although there can be no clear recommendations in this case. As for specifically the length and width, they depend not only on the area of ​​the land plot, but also on our capabilities. After all, we will dig a hole under the reservoir by hand.

2. Depth. It depends on the purpose of creating a reservoir, as well as its size.

3. Difficulty of content. The larger the pond, the easier (no matter how paradoxical it may sound) to care for it.

4. Zoning. The reservoir is divided into the following zones:

• coastal (from 10 cm to 40 cm), which will serve as an entrance and for planting a plant;
• shallow water (from 40 cm to 100 cm), where crops that grow deeper will be planted (for example, a winter-hardy water lily);
• deep-sea (more than 100 cm) - it is required only in those reservoirs where fish farming is planned; the area of ​​this zone depends, first of all, on the number of fish, but on average it should be more than 20% of the total area of ​​the reservoir.

5. Biological balance. In any case, living creatures will settle in the pond, which means that it is necessary to provide such conditions so that it can self-clean. No oxygenation or chlorination of water is envisaged here. It is worth remembering: no more than ½ of the entire area can be allocated for plants.

Note! The lowest point should be lowered below the soil freezing line, especially if fish breeding is planned so that they can survive the winter in non-freezing water.

Fifth stage. Choosing materials

The next question to be dealt with is choice Supplies... There are many options on the market today that can be used to create an artificial reservoir. Let's consider them.

Concrete pond

Most expensive option, which, nevertheless, allows the reservoir to be exploited for a long time. Though concrete pouring more suitable for arranging the pool.

Finished plastic container

This option is more suitable. The form, made of fiberglass or PVC, allows you to build a pond in record time and use it for up to 30 years (the specific period depends on the quality of the container).

The procedure itself will consist of only four steps:

• digging a pit;
• set the form;
• fill the remaining voids with sand;
• we plant the plants, fill the reservoir with water.

The disadvantages of this method are the difficulty of transportation (if the volume is large) and the need for basic knowledge of installation (otherwise the bowl may be damaged). Moreover, plastic containers degraded over time by UV radiation.

Note! It is preferable to use a fiberglass bowl that is reinforced with rubber - this design is more reliable and repairable.

Polymer film

In terms of the shape of the pond, this option provides simply unlimited possibilities. The most affordable material is plastic wrap, although it will not last long.

A PVC film has a longer service life; with proper installation, it can last up to ten years.

Perhaps the most reliable option... For ponds with rocky bottom and great depth it is recommended to use a membrane made of butyl rubber (EPDM) with a service life of up to 50 years. In addition, this material is able to withstand repeated frost.

There are a few folk ways making a reservoir in which materials at hand are used. Let's take a look at the most popular of these methods.

Pond from the old bath

A great option, because a bathtub is a container that was originally intended to hold liquid. The bathtub can be painted in bright colours and put it in a picturesque corner of the site or, as an option, deepen it into the ground.

Tire pond

A simple way to create a mini-reservoir on the site. The manufacturing procedure is shown in the photo below.

Basin pond

An even easier way. The basin is capable of holding water well, so it can be installed in the same way as a bath. With proper decoration, such a mini-pond will be an excellent decoration for the yard.

Note! The choice of material depends not only on the aesthetic characteristics of the pond, but also on its service life. It is desirable that the selected material is environmentally friendly.

Sixth stage. We prepare the equipment

To create a simple artificial reservoir, we need a level, a cart with a shovel, a cord, a hose that is used for watering, and pegs.

If the pond is more technologically advanced, then the following equipment will be needed:

• cleaning filter;
• a sterilizer (it will remove algae so that the water is clear);
• pump for pumping / pumping out water;
• aerator for oxygenation (especially important for fish breeding).

Seventh stage. Create an artificial reservoir

There are plenty of materials that can be used to create a reservoir, but we will focus on PVC film. The fact is that it is cheaper, it takes the desired shape better, it can be repaired, and it does not require specific knowledge or skills to work.

Step 1. First, select the color of the film. There are several possible options here.

1. Black film - it will turn the bottom into a mirror (plants, clouds, etc. will be reflected).
2. Cream, blue- so the pond will look more like a pool, and fish on a light background will be seen more clearly.
3. Brown- will imitate the soil of natural reservoirs. A great option for a landscape pond.

Also, when choosing a film, pay attention to the composition (PVC is more durable than PE) and thickness (for a pond, you will need material thicker than 0.5 mm). Moreover, the greater the depth of the reservoir, the greater the thickness of the film should be. Equally important is resistance to UV radiation and mechanical damage.

Note! If the depth of the pond exceeds 1.5 m, then we use butyl rubber. Such a film is resistant to stretching, deformation and UV, moreover, it can withstand temperatures of 40-80 ° C.

• pond width + (depth x 2) + stock (55-60 cm) = material width;
• pond length + (depth x 2) + stock (55-60 cm) = material length.

For gluing we will use a special glue (for example, "Tagnit") or adhesive tape (Quick Seam 3).

Step 3. The next step is to create the schema.

First, we draw it on paper, and then we transfer it to the ground. We indicate the sizes of steps or "shelves" for plants - this will avoid possible problems... For marking we use sand or a flexible garden hose (preferably a bright color).

After that, we cover the marked area with a piece of light film and examine it from different angles. We make adjustments if necessary.

Step 4... We dig a foundation pit. To do this, we perform the following actions.

1. First, remove the sod.
2. Then we dig the foundation pit itself. At the same time, we move from the edges to the center, going deeper in the required places - it is more convenient this way. For laying out the stone and decorating, we equip a ledge with a depth of 60-70 cm.
3. We remove the soil, and with it roots, stones, debris and everything that can damage the film. By the way, you can make an alpine slide from the excavated soil.

When carrying out earthworks, we pay attention to the fact that the shores of the future pond are located on the same line. If a waterfall is created, then we maintain the required height difference.

Note! If a large level is required, we can make it ourselves. To do this, lay the usual level on a long, flat board.

Step 5. We lay the substrate. We carefully tamp the bottom of the finished pit, after which we proceed to the waterproofing layer, which will prevent the penetration of water into the ground.

The underlay can be done in several ways:

• we cover the bottom with stones and fill it with sand (this kind of waterproofing will lose its properties after a few years);
• we lay a layer of geotextile, which we cover with sand (it will cost a lot);
• stack Pvc film(the most reliable way, so let's focus on it).

Step 6. Next, we lay the film, preferably on a sandy "pillow" (the latter will prevent damage from stones and other dangerous items). It is advisable to do styling on a hot day - as it warms up, the film becomes more pliable.

In this case, it may be difficult to form folds. We try to make one large fold, and not a large number of small, then glue it or press it down with stones. The film should be loose, loose.

To secure it, we dig an additional trench along the perimeter. We put the film there, after which we fill in the crushed stone. Next, fill the trench with large stones with a flat bottom (so that the film does not break). We lay the walls with round stones (flat ones will slide). At the end, we fill the pond with water - we serve it without pressure, directing it to the center of the pit. After two days, cut off the excess film.

Step 7... Strengthening the shores. Their slope depends on the type of soil: if it is sandy, then the walls should be sloped, if we are talking about clay or black soil, then vertical. The optimum slope angle should be approximately 45 °.

The fortification itself depends on the type of coast.

If they are shallow, then you can use:

• geomat;
• geogrid;
• polymer geogrid.

You can also use a regular mesh-netting, clogging its cells with soil with seeds. perennial grass(for example, clover). There is another option - to strengthen the banks with shrubs or plants.

If the coast is steep, then we can use:

• piles;
• gabions;
• retaining walls.

Can be effectively strengthened using biological methods (planting). Ideally, biological enhancement methods should be combined with engineering ones.

Eighth stage. We design an artificial pond

There are several ways decorative finishing reservoir. To make it a full-fledged design element, we use one or more of the methods below.

As a conclusion. Care features

In the end, a few words about further care behind an artificial reservoir.

Video - Creating a pond from film

Beautiful body of water on garden plot many summer residents dream of building. However, not everyone can boast of a large area of ​​land, trying in vain to place a vegetable garden, fruit trees, and several flower beds with their favorite flowers on it. In addition, the construction of a pond is associated with significant costs that not everyone can afford.

A small charming pond is not difficult to build yourself

Several options for a small pond

Our photos show various options for artificial reservoirs in summer cottages. Among them, you can find budgetary ones and you can choose one of the simplest to perform. In addition, the choice of option should be due to the composition of the soil, as well as the presence free space in the garden or yard. A mini pond is easy to build with your own hands, if you have the appropriate building materials at hand. Available materials can serve as the main argument in the search for a solution.

Film pond - a universal solution

To prevent water from leaving the homemade pond, it must be sealed. Using film is considered a good way. If you want to save money, you can use the remnants of the plastic film that was purchased for greenhouses, but such a reservoir will last only a few years.

If it is possible to purchase a film based on butyl rubber, which is designed specifically for the construction of reservoirs, the life of the pond will increase significantly. A compromise option is a dense polyvinyl chloride film.

It so happens that the remnants of the film are scattered pieces - in this case, they can be glued together to obtain a coating of the desired size. For this, it is advisable to use special glue, with which you can also glue cuts and other material defects.

A film pond allows you to build a pond of any shape and size

In addition to the main material, you will need sand, geotextile and stones. To arrange a reservoir with your own hands, you should act according to the plan:

1. Mark a place for the pond. You should not arrange it right in the garden next to fruit trees... It is advisable to choose a flat surface so that the levels of the banks are the same height - otherwise water from the pond will pour out from one side.
2. Dig a pit, making sure that its walls are flat, which will allow the banks not to crumble during operation. The angle of inclination of the pit walls should be up to 45˚. If there is a desire, the banks can be made with ledges.
3. Next, you need to carefully tamp the bottom of the pit, and then fill it with sand to a height of 5 - 10 cm. Lay a piece of geofabric on the sand; some craftsmen replace it with old blankets.
4. Now the reservoir can be lined with foil. This should be done slowly, trying to immediately straighten the emerging folds. Lay the edges of the cover on the banks.
5. It is necessary to pour water into the reservoir in parts, this will not allow the coating to burst. It is recommended to take a two-hour break between each stage.
6. Once again we check the level of the banks and, if necessary, level it by adding earth. We fix the waterproofing along the entire coast with stones.

Important: it is best to work with film in summer, on a hot day. This will make it easier to manipulate the material as it will be softer.

A small pond from a plastic bowl under protection

Plastic bowl - quick and easy

If you do not want to work with film, work on the device of a small pond can be accelerated. To do this, it is worth picking up a ready-made PVC bowl. These containers are sold in hardware stores and can vary in shape and size. In addition, plastic earbuds differ markedly in price and quality. Poor-quality plastic quickly collapses under the influence of frost and ultraviolet radiation sun. The choice is yours. Below are instructions for installing a reservoir with your own hands:

1. First you need to mark the place for the pit. To do this, drive pegs around the perimeter (corners) and tie them with a rope. Execute markup more sizes bowls of 20 cm on all sides. Dig a pit with a depth equal to the height of the bowl plus 20cm.
2. Now you need to fill the bottom of the pit with sand, achieving a flat surface - this can be checked using a level. Moisten the sand and tamp. Next, put the bowl into the pit, trying to make its edges level with the ground.
3. When the bowl is installed, it is necessary to fill up the sand between its side parts and the walls of the pit (in the same stock of 20 cm). The sand should be filled up and tamped lightly as the bowl is filled with water. This will avoid deformation of the tank walls.
4. Pour water into the bowl not immediately, but in small portions. Sudden stress on the plastic can lead to distortion and damage.

A small pond is easiest to make from a plastic bowl.

Concrete pit - a reliable option

The method of constructing an artificial reservoir from concrete is suitable for those who know how to work with concrete. Such a pond has an undoubted advantage over its brethren - it is reliable and durable. However, it will not work to move it to another place, in this regard, before starting work, it is worthwhile to think over its configuration well and choose the most suitable place on the site. Let's consider in detail how to build a concrete pond with your own hands:

1. The pit under the reservoir should be made with ledges. Let its walls be gentle, here it is also important to adhere to an angle of up to 45˚. The hole needs to be tamped well.
2. Next, you need to fill in the sand, but its layer should be small - 3 cm is enough. On top of the sand, you need to lay out a film of polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, which should not be tightly pulled.
3. It is necessary to lay concrete, starting from the walls, and only then go to the bottom. It is important to complete this work within one day in order to avoid cracking of the concrete at its joints.
4. Next, you need to wait until the composition slightly hardens, then press into it metal mesh for concrete reinforcement. This must be done so that the edges of the mesh protrude above the surface of the reservoir.
5. After the concrete has completely dried, it is necessary to pour the next layer. Before starting work on the second layer, sprinkle the bottom concrete with water. Experts recommend at this moment to control the bottom surface for its horizontal position.

Once upper layer concrete dries up completely, you can pour water into the pool. After that, start decorating it - planting plants on the banks, launching fish or equipping the backlight.

Miniature pond plus scrap materials

Budgetary options for creating reservoirs in the country involve the use of all kinds of scrap materials, instead of buying a bowl or film. Some craftsmen build a pond from an old cast iron or baby bath, while others have been able to adapt a car tire or an old basin. The pond will turn out to be quite small, but it is not difficult to take care of the mini pond. It is easier to change the water than in a large tank, and with the help of tubed plants and decorative stones, it can be easily turned into a blooming oasis.

Preparing a pit for a pond from a bath

After many years of use, the bathtub loses its original appearance. If there are no through holes in the bowl, it may well be used in the country under a homemade reservoir. To build a small pond without big costs, you must:

1. First you need to mark the place under the reservoir, and then add 10 centimeters on each side. Dig a pit, the depth of which will be 20 cm greater than the height of the bath.
2. Now you need to mark at the bottom of the pit the place where the bowl drain will be located. There it is necessary to dig a hole with a diameter of 30 cm and a depth of half a meter. This will be the drainage. In the cylindrical hole, you need to insert a sheet of metal rolled into a roll and fill it with rubble. The edge of the metal should protrude 15-25 cm above the pit.
3. After preparing the drainage, you need to make a "pillow" for the bath, which will allow it not to sink over time. To do this, a layer of crushed stone is poured onto the bottom of the pit, and a layer of sand is poured on top. This pillow should be about 20cm high. All this must be carefully tamped, after which the sheet of metal must be removed.

With the correct installation of the bath, the pond will last long years

Pit for a two-level pond

If it is decided to build a pond from old bath, it can be made quite unusual. We propose to create a two-level reservoir with your own hands, for the device of which you will need to make a little more effort. Work plan, step by step:

1. Before digging a pit for a bath, you need to mark the area, adding half a meter on each side. The outer outline should be slightly modified - to make this line wavy, giving it a contour that resembles the natural outlines of a lake.
2. Now you can start digging a pit. To do this, you need to dig a hole, 30-40 cm deep, focusing on the outer contours. Further, at the bottom of the dug pit, it is necessary to mark the contour for the bath and deepen the pit under the bowl as described above. That is, the total depth of the pit will be more than in the first version by the same 30-40 cm.
3. When the bath is installed, the outer contour of the reservoir should be limited by fiberglass slate. A corrugated hose must be put on the edge of the slate.
4. Further, the place that has formed between the bathroom and the slate must be covered with sand and tamped, or filled with concrete.
5. The bowl must be covered with foil, forming a single pool for water. The film should be secured with stones.

It is more difficult to make a two-level pond, but no one will guess that a bath is used in the pond.

Installing the bath

After preparing the place for the bath, bricks should be laid at the bottom of the pit - several pieces in each corner, on which the bath is installed. This precaution will prevent the bulky container from sinking. Next, you should check how even the bathtub is installed, and make sure that its edge is level with the ground. An empty space remains between the walls of the bath and the pit. It must be covered with sand, which must be moistened and thoroughly tamped.

Mini pond from a car tire

If it is possible to use old tire, you can easily and quickly build a miniature pond from a tire with your own hands. A tire from a KAMAZ wheel or a tractor will make it possible to make the reservoir much larger.

First, you need to dig a pit of such a size that the tire fits freely into it. Before installing it in the pit, it is necessary to cut off the upper part of the rubber with a knife. You should end up with a bowl with a hole at the bottom. Next, you need to take the film, cover the bottom and sides of the tire with it, releasing the edges up. They need to be tucked over the edges of the tank. It remains to pour water into the finished pool from the tire and decorate its edges with plants and stones. Similarly, you can build a pond from a plastic basin.

Tire pond does not take up much space and will be an excellent garden decoration

Several ways to decorate a pond

Today there are many ways to decorate a mini pond. Among them, the installation of plaster figures on its banks, the laying of decorative stones and tiles. Any body of water will be decorated with green spaces that can be placed around it right in the flowerpots. In other cases, soil is poured on the shores of the lake, interspersed with stones. Moisture-loving perennials are planted in the ground, which over time form beautiful thickets on the shore.

A small waterfall and beautiful lilies will decorate and revitalize the reservoir

If there is a desire to plant aquatic plants, you need to strive to ensure that they do not grow too much. Otherwise, the surface of the pond will be completely covered with greenery. As such, experts recommend using water hyacinth.

Also, the pond can be decorated with a bridge, and lanterns can be installed around it. Another way to revive the water of an artificial pond is a fountain or waterfall. All this can be built later, the main thing is to take into account the possibility of modernizing the pond even at the stage of choosing a place under the reservoir.

Are you constantly haunted by the feeling that your dacha is missing something? Look around you! Yes, there are flower beds, there is a gazebo, a playground too. A small pond, in which lilies float or a fountain gurgles, do you have on the site? If not, then building a decorative pond with your own hands is not difficult at all.

Key issues in the arrangement of the pond

Once you've made this decision, don't grab the shovel right away. First of all, decide on the following questions:

• the location of the pond on the site;
• the size of the pond and its shape;
• materials for arranging a pond;
• vegetation for the pond, its decoration.

Don't be afraid of difficulties, they are all easily surmountable. Small financial costs, a few days of work, and on your site there will be a "crystal" dream of any summer resident - a quiet surface of a pond or a babbling fountain sparkling in the sun with a multicolored rainbow.

Choosing a place for a decorative pond: it is important not to be mistaken

When choosing a place for a pond, keep in mind that the pond will not be a place for fish farming or swimming, it will only serve as a decorative function. Nevertheless, it is very important that a natural ecological system is built for it, otherwise, instead of decoration, after a while, a "charming" swamp may turn out.

Carefully choose a place for an artificial reservoir so that over time it does not turn into a "charming" swamp

The illumination of the site is very important for the placement of the pond. On the one hand, coastal and aquatic plants need the sun, on the other hand, its excess is detrimental to the entire ecosystem.

When the summer is hot, the water in small ponds heats up so much that it becomes impossible to control the reproduction of algae, as a result, the inhabitants of such reservoirs die.

The ideal option is considered to be when the sun's rays warm up the pond only in the first or second half of the day. It is desirable that at mass times he was in the shade.

It is advisable to arrange the pond so that the sun's rays warm it up only in the first or second half of the day.

It is not difficult to determine the illumination of the future reservoir. It is enough to mark the contours of the future pond with rope or white sand and trace during the day which part of it will be illuminated by the sun.

Determine the light level of the area reserved for the pond

If there is no home next to the place designated for the pond, or garden structures, it can be shaded by a tree or bush. Trees with a weeping crown look very beautiful near the pond, but in this case, you will have to regularly cleanse the water from fallen leaves.

It is easiest to build a pond with your own hands if you fit it into the existing landscape, using the lowest and wettest places in the garden. It can be used to drain water from the site through drainage system.

If the summer cottage is flat, a place for the pond can be chosen on the border of the garden, indicated by trees or bushes. You can select a place next to the livestock. But then it is necessary to make a smooth transition between the water reach of the pond and the plantings - a strip of perennials or ornamental grasses.

Do not surround the pond with a solid wall. Plant the plants on the shore different heights

The pond among the lawn does not look the best. If there are no other options, plant plants of different heights on the shore, but not with a solid wall - your gaze should slide over the mirror of the water.

A decorative reservoir next to an alpine slide or rockery looks spectacular and stylish. By decorating the slide and the pond with the same shapes of stones, you can link them into a single compositional whole.

A decorative reservoir will look especially impressive next to an alpine slide or rockery

The use of elevation differences and natural hills makes it possible to inscribe a stream into such a composition, which will flow over the stones into the pond. In the future, this composition can be supplemented with a decorative bridge.

The shape and style of the reservoir

A body of water, as an element of landscape design, must correspond to a certain style. Round bodies of water are a favorite form of the English landscape.

Round ponds are widely used in English landscapes

Precise geometric shapes work best for a regular style. Ponds irregular shape, which mimic the shape of natural bodies of water, are popular in classic Chinese and Japanese gardens.

The perfect addition to a garden in Chinese or japanese style there will be an irregular pond

Today, it is absolutely not necessary to strive to ensure that the built pond in the country with your own hands has a natural or strict geometric shape. The main thing is that it must perfectly fit into the landscape of the garden.

The main thing is not form and decor, but harmonious unity with the surrounding landscape

Materials are carefully selected for the decoration of the coast and coastal zone

Materials for decorating the shores of the reservoir are selected very carefully. Clinker, natural stone, wood or concrete should be in harmony with the facade of the house, walkway or retaining walls.

Materials for an artificial reservoir

To equip a pond in the country with their own hands, they use different waterproofing materials... Their choice depends on the shape and size of the pond. If the area of ​​the reservoir does not exceed 5 square meters, ready-made plastic bowls are predominantly used.

It is convenient to use ready-made plastic bowls for arranging reservoirs with an area of ​​no more than 5 square meters.

It is very easy to install them, and they will serve for more than a dozen years. The disadvantage of plastic molds is that they have a strictly defined shape and small volume.

Those wishing to create a reservoir according to an individual project should use a waterproofing film. It is very elastic and easily deforms to the desired shape. There are three types of this material.

The most commonly used black PVC film (polyvinyl chloride). It lends itself well to repair with glue. Therefore, if the need arises, it can be repaired.

Polyethylene film cheaper than PVC, but it does not have the same elasticity and durability. If the polyethylene leaks out, it can be "treated" with self-adhesive tape.

Butyl rubber is considered the best film. The thickness of this film is chosen depending on the depth of the pond and the pressure of the water. For a reservoir, the depth of which does not exceed 80 cm, a film with a thickness of 0.8 mm is sufficient. If the depth is greater, the film thickness should be 1.2 - 1.5 mm.

The best option for an artificial pond is butyl rubber sheeting. The loose ends of the film can be masked with stones

On the shore of a reservoir, the bottom of which is made of film, stones should hang slightly above the water. This will mask the loose ends of the film.

Another option for arranging a reservoir is a monolithic concrete pit. For ponds with regular geometric shapes, this is the most convenient way manufacturing. Although, in order to build such a pond, one must have skills in working with concrete, be able to install formwork and reinforcement. In addition, it is necessary to very accurately plan the placement of the reservoir, all its parameters, since then it is almost impossible to fix anything.

The optimal solution for ponds with regular geometric shapes will be a monolithic concrete pit

The most difficult thing in the construction of a concrete pit is the pouring of beveled walls with smooth transitions between terraces of different heights. In addition to concrete, in the construction of a monolithic pond bowl, reinforcing steel mesh, and the inner surfaces of the pit are also covered with a protective layer of fine-grained sand, which must be renewed at least once every two years.

Master class: creating a pond based on a rigid tank

Rigid containers are good because they are easy and quick to assemble. You can easily install such a container yourself, spending only 1-2 days.

Installing a rigid container will not be difficult. By choosing a bowl with natural stone edges, you do not have to be puzzled by disguise

If you manage to get a plastic bowl with natural stone edges, the process will go even faster, because the problem of giving the banks a natural look will disappear.

Operating procedure

1. Place the ready-made container in the place reserved for the pond. To prevent it from bending over, lay it on the bricks. Trace the edges of the container with light sand or lime. In order for the pit to correspond to the relief of the container, it is necessary to accurately mark the zones of different heights.

2. It is necessary to dig the foundation pit very carefully according to the markings, expanding and deepening them by 10 cm.

3. Place the pond bowl in the pit, using a level, make sure that the bowl is horizontal. Correct the pit depth if necessary.

4. Fill the container one third with water and start filling the cracks with sand, periodically pouring water over it.

Master class: creating a reservoir on a film basis

Using a waterproofing film, you can create a reservoir of any, even the most bizarre shape. Having decided on the place for the reservoir, we proceed to its construction.

1. Mark out the contours of the pond with light sand or dry lime. Dig a ditch around the perimeter onto the bayonet of the shovel. Collect the removed sod and fertile soil separately.

2. Again with sand or lime, draw outlines for different depths. The deepest place should be in the center of the reservoir. Gradually remove soil from the shallower zone, and only then from the deepest.

3. Using a tape measure and string, calculate the required film size. To strengthen the banks, add another 50 cm to each side.

4. At the bottom of the pit, a layer of sand should be poured, geotextile or non-woven fabric should be placed on top. This will protect the film from contact with sharp stones and roots. Now you can cover the film.

5. Fill the reservoir with water gradually, pressing the bottom and terraces with stones. The film should settle gradually.

6. After a few days, proceed with the design of the coastal zone. The edges of the film are well tucked in and laid stones and slabs. The gaps between them are covered with pebbles and sand.

A quick way to create a mine-reservoir from improvised means

I will not talk about old bathtubs, buckets, barrels and basins, adapted and converted into garden ponds. It's very simple and primitive.

But I'll introduce you to one interesting way of creating a pond out of uselessness. I stumbled upon these photos while walking through the endless expanses of the Internet.

We do decorative pond from an old car tire

The form for the pond is the usual car tire... You can get hold of this "good" in a landfill, at a tire service, or at your husband's garage.

How larger diameter tires, the bigger the pond will be. Tires from the wheels of KAMAZ, BELAZ or the Belarus tractor will allow you to build a decent size pond. Cut off the upper part of the tire.

Having folded the film in two layers, we line the bottom and sides of the tire. We fold the edges of the film under the sides.

We fill the pond with water and decorate the banks with stones and plants.

Choosing plants for the reservoir and coastal zone

In the balance of the ecosystem of a reservoir, even a very small one, a special role is assigned to plants - those that grow on the shore and those that live in the water. Therefore, you need to select them especially carefully.

Coastal zone decoration

Lovers of natural style, as a rule, prefer large bodies of water. Their shores are impressive with lush vegetation, which belongs to the local flora: willow loosestrife, monotonous loosestrife, marsh iris. There are also such tall plants as reeds and darmera.

Natural style artificial pond impresses with lush vegetation

Regular-style ponds are characterized by strict symmetry. Plants on the shore are planted in a specific order. Rectangular large slabs are laid around the pond. Wooden flooring and embankments look stylish.

The Japanese-style ponds create a special atmosphere of tranquility and unique charm. This is facilitated by the harmony of the stone with skillfully selected plants, decorative bridges and other accessories.

Japanese-style ponds give the contemplator a sense of harmony and serenity

If there is enough space on the shore, tall perennials can be planted.

For decorative ponds, which can most often be found in our summer cottages, the main thing is a spectacular appearance. If there is enough space on the shore, tall perennials are planted: gunner, rogers, hostu, badan, marsh iris, astilba. Between the stones, closer to the water, you can plant a tenacious, stonecrop, forget-me-nots.

Aquatic plants for ponds

Special attention should be given to the selection of aquatic plants for a small pond

For small ponds, it is very important to choose the right plants that will float on the surface of the water. There shouldn't be many of them. Dwarf water lilies, water hyacinth, water buttercup, duckweed not only decorate a small pond, they saturate it with oxygen, thereby supporting its vital activity.

When choosing aquatic plants, be sure to find out how quickly they grow. Otherwise, it may happen that over the summer your decorative pond will be covered with wild thickets, because of which the water will not be visible at all.

To control development fast growing plants, it is better to plant them not in the ground, but in special containers or "pockets" made of jute, which are attached to the coastal stones. Heat-loving specimens will find their place in containers, which, with the onset of cold weather, are moved to a trough with water and transferred to the cellar.

It is very important to know at what depth to plant aquatic plants. V garden ponds conventionally, there are five zones of different depths.

The coastal zone is considered to be up to 10 cm deep; it forms a swamp or wet meadow. The marsh iris, plakun and marigold feel excellent here.

Shallow water (depth from 10 to 40 cm). Plants with tubular stems, such as reeds, calamus, whorled urut, thrive here.

The deep-water zone begins at 40 cm. This is the habitat of plants with floating leaves - nymphs, as well as aponogeton two-headed, arrowhead, elodea - plants that hide under water.

So that in winter the reservoir does not freeze and the plants are preserved in it, its depth should be at least 80 cm.

Filters and pumps for decorative pond

In order for the reservoir to be always clean and the water fresh, experts recommend equipping it with a filter and a pump for pumping water. Small pumps look like containers. They can be easily hidden under stones. A specialist will help you choose the right pump for your pond. After all, the pump power is determined by the volume of water.

By choosing a location for the pump and placing it on concrete slab or brick, it is necessary to mark the line for laying the water pipe and electrical cable... The cable is placed in a special armored tube and together with water pipe camouflaged with small stones and pebbles. The pump is connected to an electrical circuit through a circuit breaker. The water filter must be changed regularly.

On the shore of a self-created reservoir, you can organize a cozy recreation area

All these simple tips that you have read will allow you to complete your creative task perfectly, and the place by the reservoir will become not only a habitat for dragonflies and butterflies, but also a favorite vacation spot for the whole family.

(19 estimates, average: 4,39 out of 5)

An artificial pond in the country can be a great place to relax on a hot summer day. Those people who have country houses on the banks of a lake or river are very lucky. Well, the rest will need to roll up their sleeves and equip a reservoir in the country with their own hands.

We draw up a project

It is best to take a place for a future artificial reservoir even at the design stage of the suburban area... In this case, the reservoir should:

• do not come under prolonged exposure to direct sunlight - heated water provokes the growth of algae and the development of microorganisms. The water in the reservoir quickly becomes cloudy and will have a musty, unpleasant odor;
• be in an open area - branches and foliage from trees will quickly pollute the water, and the root system can damage the bottom of an artificial reservoir;
• be located so that later you can expand the size of the water surface if you want to remake the pond, for example, into a full-fledged complex - with a fountain, bridge, etc.

Professional builders it is advised to make the artificial reservoir shallow - since it will be mainly used as a beautiful element of the surrounding landscape in the garden. In addition, you immediately need to think about how you will take care of the reservoir on the site - there should be a convenient approach to it. Naturally, not through alpine slides or a vegetable garden.

The water in an artificial pond will need to be changed with your own hands, since it will not be purified in a natural way, unlike natural reservoirs. Therefore, you need to make sure that a well with water in the country is located near your pond.

The choice of material for construction

Before making a pond with your own hands, you need decide on its basis... In this case, there are several solutions. Let's consider what an artificial reservoir can be made of.

Reinforced concrete

The most durable garden pond can be made with reinforced concrete. The bottom and the coastal zone, reinforced with reinforcement and filled with concrete, will be able to withstand various additional loads - the installation of sculptural compositions, a fountain, etc.

The complexity of construction makes this technology inappropriate for organizing small ponds in the country. The disadvantages of this solution include significant cost. We'll have to rent special equipment, use a lot of building materials, and it will be possible to dismantle the installed reservoir only with great labor costs.

PVC film

A budget solution for the construction of an artificial reservoir in the country. The depth and shape of this reservoir can be easily changed, reduced or increased in size. A pond on a plot with a film base can even be made seasonal - for example, it can be filled up with the arrival of winter and rebuilt in the summer.

The disadvantages of this solution include the fragility and fragility of the PVC coating - the film can be easily damaged, and if the integrity of the bowl is violated, the water will easily go into the ground. Therefore, swimming in these home reservoirs is not recommended - they are made small in size and are used for garden decoration.

Shop artificial bowls

it golden mean for people who want to have their own pond in their garden and at the same time do not suffer with building materials for its organization. Shop bowls for decorative reservoirs are made of durable and durable materials- fiberglass or polyvinyl chloride.

The first option is much more expensive. However, the cost of a fiberglass bowl is compensated in full by the excellent performance of this material. This bowl can be easily put with your own hands, without involving in this process. outside help... The disadvantage can be considered the acquisition of ready-made standard forms - that is, the foundation pit must be made to match the shape of the bowl, and not vice versa.

Moreover, the possibility of constructing uneven relief bottom to decorate natural coastlines. In addition, this method of organizing a pond in a garden will cost much more than a pond made of scrap materials or film.

Materials at hand

Quite an interesting option is the use of different improvised containers or materials. Old troughs, cast-iron baths are quite suitable for construction.

The advantages of this method are that there is no need to build bulky reinforced concrete structures or acquire standard forms. The disadvantages include the low decorative effect of old containers - you will need to show imagination so that from the old bath make a work of art.

For example, experts advise people who have catastrophically little space in their dachas to use a convenient and simple pond made of tires. Old tires are dug in, a film is laid inside, and the banks are decorated.

The resulting pond may surprise even professional designers- the finished reservoir will be an exclusive element of the landscape interior.

Pit

Then, when they have decided on the material for construction, it is necessary to dig a pit. This work is best done in summer, when the groundwater leave as much as possible... The depth of the pit is determined based on the type of material from which they decided to make the bowl. If it is an old bathroom or another ready-made form, we dig a hole 25-30 cm deeper than the dimensions of the form.

If you decide to make a pond of PVC film, then you will need to dig to a depth of about 70-90 cm - a shallow pond will completely freeze in winter, dry quickly and heat up in summer time... For reservoirs made of reinforced concrete, it will be necessary to dig a pit more than 1.5 meters deep - here you cannot do without special equipment.

Consider the stages of work for the construction of a pond in the country with our own hands for different types selected materials.

PVC film pond

When the pit is ready, it remains to clean its bottom and open the sides of the future mini-pond small terraces ... The depth of these terraces is approximately 30 cm, and the width is approximately 25 cm. The bottom of the pit is compacted, pebbles, rubble, stones and other foreign objects are removed. The cleaned bottom is sprinkled with sand and covered with geotextile fabric. This bottom preparation will significantly improve the strength of the base coat as well as extend the life of the film.

The next stage is the installation of the film coating. The size of the film can be calculated as follows: take the total length of the reservoir and add twice the depth of the pit. The sheet of films is fixed on the terraces with a margin of about 30 cm. The laid sheet is laid with stones or bricks - this must be done to preserve its laying shape.

Then you need to fill the pond with water, check the integrity of the film and start decorating the coastal zone. Don't need it right away cut off the remnants of the film under the bricks, as it may shrink over time.

Bath pond

To build a pond from an old bath or other unnecessary container, you will need:

• crushed stone;
• a piece of a chain-link mesh;
• sand and cement;
• a coil of steel or aluminum wire;
• beautiful stones for decoration.

After the pit has been dug, it is necessary to make its edges. Why, around the entire perimeter of the future pond, we remove the upper layer of earth about 45-50 cm wide... This perimeter is deepened so that it is level with the shape of the reservoir. The drain hole in the bathroom is closed, then it is installed at the bottom of the pit.

To extend the operating time of the future mini-pond, it is necessary to protect the enamel on inner surface bowls. Why the sides and bottom of the bathroom can be treated with tile adhesive. After that, the bath is allowed to dry thoroughly. As a rule, this takes at least a few days.

Then, a mesh-netting is laid around the entire perimeter of the bowl. It is required to reinforce the bottom and sides of the reservoir. We apply a cement-sand mixture to the mesh or concrete mortar and let it dry. After that, it is the turn of the final design of the shores.

A pond from a finished form

A pit dug for the mold, cleared of debris, branches and other items. The walls and bottom of the pit are compacted. When the soil is very loose in the country, it needs to be strengthened. For the finished form, a perfectly flat plane of the sides and bottom of the pit is required. The surface can be leveled using a building level.

Then the bottom must be covered with sifted sand, which also needs to be tamped. The sand layer is an excellent safety seal that will ensure the integrity of the finished bowl.

After that, the bowl is placed in the pit and water is poured. The resulting voids between the ground and the sides of the form are covered with sand, this must be done gradually. First, 20-25 cm of sand is poured, which is moistened with water. After sand spreading, this process needs repeat until the voids are completely filled between the walls of the pit and the mold.

This must be done without fail, since the shape for the pond is very fragile and easily deformed. Even pressure on the surfaces of the bowl will prevent it from bending.

After a day, check the gap between the ground and the sides of the bowl. If there are voids left, add sand. Pour the water out of the mini-pond, clean it completely and pour in clean water.

Plant selection

Small plants are planted on the coastal part of the pond. Hostas can create a picturesque picture on the shore of the pond, with green ones preferring partial shade, and blue ones preferring shade.

Also in the shade, sedge grows well with narrow leaves, which sometimes grow up to 80 cm.In partial shade, an unpretentious loosestrife with attractive inflorescences purple ... In a sunny area, you can plant a lightning.

A fern will perfectly decorate the shore of a reservoir located in partial shade. It thrives on damp ground. The same conditions apply to astilbe. Low-growing varieties are suitable for planting near a pond.

If the reservoir is quite large, land a darmeru (peltiphyllum) on the shore - perennial in the form of bushes up to 1 m high and up to 0.5 m in diameter with notched round leaves.

At the second level, water lilies are traditionally located in the reservoir. Hybrid nymphs are characterized by a variety of flower colors. You do not need to overload the pond with a large number of specimens, they grow and only interfere with each other.

Sunny shallow water is great place for calamus... In a small reservoir, a low grass calamus organically looks, and in a large one - a marsh calamus. Some iris varieties also prefer low water.

The unpretentious calla is a fairly popular plant for home ponds. At the beginning of summer, an ear-shaped flower appears on it, and after that, red berries. It must be remembered that they are poisonous.

The vanilla-scented aquatic hawthorn grows well in water, reaching a diameter of 50 cm. It is a deep-sea plant. It looks original, floating on the surface, miniature, covering the reservoir with a green carpet of azolla. However, it will need to be fought with, periodically catching bushes.

We will send the material to you by e-mail

O one of the best accents in landscape design can become an artificial reservoir. Such a structure will delight the owners of the site and will serve as an excellent place to relax. Many summer cottages are limited in size and are not suitable for large bodies of water, but with instructions and certain construction skills, you can make a small pond in the country with your own hands step by step. Photos of all stages of installation will allow you to determine the technical side of the issue. Before installing a reservoir, you will need to prepare certain materials, choose a suitable project and read the recommendations from specialists.

It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to build a beautiful pond in the country. From the available options, you can build a budget option

When deciding how to make a pond in the country with your own hands, you first need to decide on the size and shape of the structure. These parameters depend on the size of the site and the preferences of the owners. In this case, the reservoir can be as strict geometric shape and have the natural contours of a natural pond.

The following requirements are imposed on the place of the future location of the water structure:

• the pond should not be illuminated by the sun's rays all day, only 7-8 hours a day is enough. In intense light, water can bloom;
• the pond should not be located in a too shaded place;
• there should be no trees nearby, as foliage will pollute the water;
• the selected place should not be heavily blown by the wind.

When choosing good place the terrain is important and good overview constructions from anywhere.

If you plan to install a fountain in the pond, then you should take care of convenient electrification. There are no special rules for choosing the configuration of a structure. The pond can be of any shape - asymmetric, meandering, oblong or square.

Useful information! The deeper the container, the lighter the place the pond should be. If a fish dwells in the water, then it should be borne in mind that the amount of oxygen decreases in highly heated water.

Do-it-yourself pond in the country step by step: photo and installation guide

There are several ways to build a pond in the country with your own hands. Landscape photo ideas will help you choose. For fast execution installation works worth buying finished form... On sale there is special containers made of rubber rubber and reinforced plastic. Budget option is considered an insulating film.

Installation using a prefabricated form

After choosing a suitable place, the finished form must be laid on the ground and a contour drawn. A trench is made according to the marks. After installing the tank, it must be filled by a third and sand must be poured into the resulting voids. Then the bowl is filled with water. After shrinkage, plants are planted around the resulting reservoir, and a stone is laid.

Useful information! Plastic containers are durable and easy to install, but such structures are destroyed over time under the influence of ultraviolet rays. The best option is a fiberglass tank that is reinforced with a rubber base.

Arrangement with film

With the right approach, you can make a pond out of a film in the country with your own hands. A step-by-step photo demonstrates how to perform such a job efficiently. You can choose the following film colors for installation:

• black reflects clouds well, the bottom looks like a mirror;
• brown material imitates soil at the bottom;
• the creamy and blue film will give the resemblance to the pool and at the same time, fish are remarkably visible against such a background.

When choosing a material, you should pay attention to the composition of the material, thickness and resistance to mechanical damage. The material is glued special glue... The use of the film may be accompanied by preliminary arrangement sand pillow... The laid film should lie freely, without excessive tension. After laying the material, the pit can be filled with stones. After the water has settled in the container for several days, the film can be cut.

Useful information! The more complex the structure of the reservoir, the stronger the film should be.

Features of water filtration and planting

The installation of the filter system must necessarily accompany the design of the pond in the country with your own hands. With this photo necessary work can be viewed on the website. This is especially important when launching fish into the water.

Filtration kits are available in stores. They are accompanied by instructions with which the equipment is installed. An important stage planting is considered. For disembarkation in suitable for water arrowhead and tail. You can pick up floating crops: hyacinths and lilies. Ferns, reeds and reeds will look good around the reservoir.

Useful information! The artificial reservoir must be cleaned periodically. In this case, the bottom should be cleaned of silt, leaves and other debris.

Related article:

Do-it-yourself pond in the country: landscape photo ideas and decoration

Do-it-yourself ponds in the country require special design. The photo reflects the very best design techniques. Figurines, stones and beautiful trees can be used as decoration. The drops and uneven terrain make it possible to build a reservoir with a cascade and a waterfall. Original decision there will be a bridge or an artificial slide.

The finished building can be decorated with the following elements:

• underwater lighting looks mesmerizing, for this mini spotlights are mounted;

• for the installation of fountains you will need different types pumps.

Vegetation is considered an important decoration. It can be planted in baskets filled with earth and installed on the surface of the reservoir. Tall varieties of plants will look good nearby.

Useful information! Before purchasing fish, you need to clarify the conditions for their maintenance. Some types of fish are at enmity with each other, so you need to choose those that get along with each other.

Useful tips: how to equip a pond in the country with your own hands, video

• it is better to decorate the pond with stones different sizes. Harmonious combination lumps with small stones will create a magnificent view;

• you should not use sheer surfaces when creating a reservoir, on which it is difficult to place plants;
• when landscaping, it is worth using containers that will prevent strong overgrowth of plants.

Useful information! For planting aquatic crops, special soil is required. In this case, plants should not occupy more than half of the area of ​​the reservoir.

How to prepare a reservoir for winter

A pond made from a plastic bowl tolerates winter cold weather well. To prevent the bowl from deforming under the load of ice, several plastic bottles of sand can be lowered into the container.

In the case of film construction, a similar method can also be used. Cover equipment and plants during winter. At the first appearance of leaf fall, the pond should be covered with a fine mesh. Before frosts, the reservoir is cleaned and water is pumped out. Plants and fish must be sent to winter in warm rooms. Pumps and filtering equipment should also be removed.

In spring, the reservoir can be launched when night temperatures rise above zero. Subject to all installation rules and if available quality material, you can build a beautiful pond in no time. The use of stylish decor elements will create a wonderful central composition on the site.