How nice it is to sit by the pond on a fine sunny day, admire the water surface, relax, unwind. But what if there is no water nearby? Build it yourself on your site! This does not require huge financial influences. All the nuances of creating and arranging a small country pond will be discussed in our article.

Purpose

If you decided to equip the landscape of your site and decided that you must have a pond in your yard, then before you start work, you need to determine what functionality the pond will have on your site.

According to their purpose, ponds can be divided into three types:

• decorative;
• fish pond;
• for swimming (pool).

Decorative

A decorative pond can be small, built solely to decorate any area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe garden. As part of landscape composition, it can be its finishing touch or an original addition to the design project.

Such a pond is created for an aesthetic purpose: it is pleasant to admire it while sitting in the garden.

Ornamental ponds can be larger: the pond itself is deeper, the compositions are larger, where bridges, fountains, streams, and lighting can serve as decor. In addition to a pleasant sight, such ponds are also a place to relax: on a warm summer day, you can sit around the pond in sun loungers and get your dose of ultraviolet radiation.

For fish breeding

Who among us does not dream of watching the fish frolicking in our own pond and pleasing the eyes of the household? In addition to the decorative function, such a pond will also serve as an antidepressant: fish swimming in the pond are an excellent sedative and relaxing remedy.

Such a pond should be large enough for your fish to feel comfortable. It can be absolutely any form. But whoever you decide to breed - crucian carp or ducks - do not forget about the need to filter the water, as well as to enrich it with oxygen.

For swimming

A homemade swimming pond is a lifesaver on a hot summer day! The size of such a pool will depend on your wishes and on the possibilities of your site. If the size of the plot allows, then you can build a beautiful reservoir in your yard in which you will swim in the summer. You can also get by with a smaller pool, which will be no less pleasant just to plunge into to cool off on a hot day.

Style of artificial reservoir

Conventionally, ponds can be divided into two large main groups, each of which has many varieties:

• regular pond;
• landscape pond.

A regular pond is created using a ready-made form. Surely you have thought out a landscape project in advance, so you already have a good idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat a home reservoir should look like. Based on the wishes for the design of the pond, you can choose a suitable finished shape: they are not only regular geometric, but also more complex types: broken, asymmetric, and so on.

A landscape pond differs from a regular one in that a ready-made form is not used in its construction. Therefore, any configuration can be given to it.

Dimensions and appearance reservoir can also be different: you can build a small pond in Japanese style, the main advantage of which is simplicity, but you can give free rein to your imagination, not limited to the standard round shape and create a large pond filled with various decorations.

How to make a pond with your own hands?

Let's assume that you have decided on the type and functionality of the pond. Now let's look at how to practically implement the conceived idea.

Where to begin?

Of course, you should start by determining the location and size of the future pond. The choice of location is very important. Still, a pond, even if it is functional, should please the eye of the owner, complement the landscape composition, fit perfectly into it, or even become an accent in your design project.

When choosing a place for a pond in the country, you should take into account not only and not so much its visual advantages, but a number of other factors that affect the choice of location:

• Plot size. It goes without saying that the size of the pond will be whatever the size of your garden will allow it to be.
• Site relief. Different terrain allows you to achieve different results: on a flat surface you can create a wonderful laconic pond, the water in which will please the eye with its smooth surface; uneven surface allows you to fantasize with fountains and waterfalls.

• Groundwater level and soil. You must consider these factors when determining the depth of the pond (you may need certain consumables and additional forces).
• Lighting. It is preferable to find a pond in the shade: the impact of direct sunlight long time will increase the evaporation of water, and the microorganisms living in the water will become more active, and the reservoir will lose all its attractiveness. To prevent this from happening, when choosing a place, pay attention to the light regime. This is especially true for small ponds and ponds with fish.
• Environment. Of course, the trees and shrubs surrounding the pond look very attractive, but do not forget that the foliage falling from these plants will pollute the pond, and the close proximity of tree roots can spoil the waterproofing.

• Power supply. Special attention you need to pay attention to the location if the pond is planned to be decorated with fountains or lighting in order to think over the electrification of this part of the summer cottage in advance.
• The prospect of expansion. You should always take this point into account, perhaps in the future you want to increase the pond itself or expand the recreation area near the reservoir, you want to fix or redo something.

To do this, be sure to leave a piece empty space in the garden on one side of the pond.

• Consistency with other buildings: after all, a pond is part of the overall composition, so it is necessary to take into account the general appearance of the summer cottage, thinking through the design of the reservoir.
• And finally, the visual component. Of course, the pond should be pleasing to the eye, so its location must be arranged so that it can be seen from most places in the garden.

The size of the pond, of course, depends on the size of the site, but not only on this. The size of the reservoir also depends on your design project, in the end, just on your desire.

So, let's look at the main parameters:

• Dimensions. There are no specific recommendations regarding the area of ​​the pond. Some sources have information that the reservoir should be located on a plot up to approximately 10% of the entire garden area, but these are not fixed standards.
• Length and width. These parameters are taken into account based on the total size of the site. If you dig a hole for a pond with your own hands, then they also depend on your physical capabilities.
• Depth. Depends on the dimensions of the reservoir, its potential functionality, soil and your physical strength (again, if you dig the pit yourself).

• Zoning. Experts distinguish three parts:

1. coastal(100-300 mm): it contains plants growing in shallow water, and there is an entrance to the reservoir.
2. Shallow(300-900 mm): There is room for other deeper plants.
3. deep sea(from a meter and further): the area necessary for the habitat of fish. The larger and more diverse the living world of the reservoir, the greater part of the area is given to the deep-water zone. Also keep in mind: in order for the fish in the pond not to freeze in winter, the lower part of the pond should be located below the freezing level of the ground.

• Content. At Surprisingly, it is easier to take care of a large body of water than a small one.

What will be needed?

When you have decided on the location and size of the future reservoir, it is time to purchase materials. Now in the market of construction and finishing materials you can buy everything you need to equip the pond:

• One of the most costly options concrete pond. This reservoir will serve you for a long time, but consider the functionality of the future pond: if you are going to build a pool, then this option may be the best choice for you, but if not, study the other options offered and choose the most suitable one for you.

• plastic containers- an easier option. They are different composition(made of polyvinyl chloride or fiberglass), so their service life is also different: an average of 10 to 30 years. The work on installing the bowl is simple, so this option is quite convenient: you need to dig a hole, set the shape, fill the voids with sand. However, there are also disadvantages in this option: plastic molds are quite expensive, they also need especially careful transportation, they are not resistant to ultraviolet radiation, but they are resistant to frost.

Most the best choice in this case, it is a fiberglass mold with a rubber backing.

The strongest and reliable film- butyl rubber: it will last up to 50 years, it is also resistant to frost and very durable.

• You will also need the following materials and tools: a shovel, a hose for irrigation, a cord (for marking), stakes, a wheelbarrow for removing land, a cleaning filter (especially relevant for reservoirs where fish are bred), a pump (it creates the pressure necessary to fill in water, it will also be needed for construction of fountains and for the operation of cleaning filters), a sterilizer (needed to purify water), a compressor (aerator) (necessary for reservoirs in which fish live, as it saturates the water with oxygen).

Plan and calculations

So, you have thought about what your future pond will look like, found a suitable place for it, decided on the size, materials, but you still don’t know exactly how many materials you will need to build your dream pond. To find out, we will make calculations and, based on the size of the pond, calculate the optimal amount of materials needed for its construction.

Suppose we decide to use polyvinyl chloride film (PVC) as a basis, since this material is affordable, strong enough and easy to use, and also subject to repair.

PVC film is different colors: black, brown, blue (or cream):

• a black film will cover the bottom and allow you to observe the reflection of the sky on the surface of the reservoir;
• the brown film resembles the real bottom in color, which will make the reservoir more realistic;
• a light film (blue or cream) will allow you to see its inhabitants under water, for example, fish.

When buying a film, you should take into account the composition (PVC is stronger than, for example, polyethylene film) and thickness (we need a film whose thickness is more than half a millimeter).

It is also worth paying attention to the manufacturer, strength, UV resistance and the absence of toxic substances.

1. The length of the film is equal to the length of the reservoir + 2 depths of the reservoir + 400-500 mm, just in case.
2. The width of the film is equal to the width of the reservoir + 2 depths of the reservoir + 400-500 mm, just in case.

It is necessary to glue the film with glue bought in the same place, in a hardware store, for example, "Tangit" or adhesive tape.

After you understand the film, you have to make a sketch of your pond. First, draw a mini-sketch on paper, and then directly on the ground, indicating the depth and width of the tank, as well as the depth and width of the steps. You can write with a garden hose or sand - it's convenient.

Making: step by step guide

After everything preparatory stages successfully completed, you can proceed to the main actions:

1. We remove the top layer of soil.
2. We dig a hole.
3. We remove the earth.

It all sounds quite simple, but be careful, do not forget to take into account all the recesses necessary in the future (for plants, for steps, etc.), as well as the features of your reservoir (waterfall, pond, pool). When installing a pool, a large pit will have to be dug with an excavator, as in full-scale construction.

When the job is done, the foundation pit was dug, and the walls were well rammed, you can proceed to waterproofing. If she is not given close attention, then water will begin to flow into the soil, and we do not need it at all. If you do it right, everything will turn out the way it should.

There are three ways to form a substrate on the bottom of your pond:

• The simplest and cheap way- fill the bottom with sand and stones. But the result of this method is short-lived: a few years and such a substrate will cease to function properly.
• Another way is to cover the bottom with geotextiles. The result, of course, is more durable, but the cost of this method is higher.
• This method is the most reliable: cover the bottom with PVC film. It is not very energy consuming, and the result is the most durable.

Let's take a closer look at the third option, as its result will allow us to enjoy the pond in our garden. long years. The main thing is to follow the instructions.

The fact that we have chosen the film method of waterproofing does not at all forbid us to fill the bottom with sand before laying the film: in this way we will protect the film from unnecessary damage by stones or roots. When laying, unfortunately, it will not work out completely without folds, but it is better to make one large fold than many small ones: it can then be pressed with stones or glued. The main thing is not to stretch the film, otherwise it will break under the weight of water.

To fix it, you need to dig an additional track, lay a film, fix it with rods and sprinkle stones on the track, and then lay the hole itself with them. When you have mastered the film, you should pour water into your hole. Do it carefully, without sudden pressure. You should act carefully: the film, although durable, can still deteriorate and tear from incorrect actions. After 1-2 days after filling with water, you can cut the film.

Now it is necessary to strengthen the shore so that the reservoir looks beautiful and neat. Let's pay attention to the soil: if it is black soil or clay, then vertical walls can be made, but if it is sand, then the walls should be inclined. It is believed that the ideal slope of the pond bank is 45°. With such a slope, the coast does not crumble, and during the freezing period, the ice does not stick out. Do not forget about the plants: since the planting depth of all plants is different, it is necessary to provide shelves for planting in advance.

It is possible to strengthen gentle banks with a geogrid or geomat, and steep banks with gabions, piles and retaining walls. By the way, there is an option for those who are not yet ready for such large-scale work on their site, but still want to be the owner of a small island of happiness in their garden. A pond can be built from very improvised means. For example, from a tire.

The pit will be needed much less deep, the film will need much less, and in the end there will be the same amount of joy. The creation process is extremely simple: you need to dig a hole according to the size of the tire, insert it into this recess, lay a film on the bottom, pour water, decorate the outside with stones.

Of course, the pond will be very small, but if it is properly decorated, it will please the eye no worse than a full-fledged reservoir.

What plants to plant?

Of course, in order for your pond to look impressive and attractive, it needs to be decorated accordingly: decorate with plants. In order for your pond to be closest in resemblance to a natural reservoir, you need to do landscaping.

We offer several options:

• You can plant plants at the bottom of your pond. It is better to use local plants: they will take root faster.

• You can also plant various plants in some kind of container., for example, in a barrel and put around the pond. At the same time, you can plant whatever your heart desires, choosing containers to your liking and, in accordance with the style of the pond and garden composition as a whole: it will look impressive, while not visually separating from the overall picture. In addition, just by replacing the container, you can easily change the appearance of the entire environment, if you suddenly get bored with the previous look.

• The highlight of your design project can be a decoration in the middle of the pond. Place a beautiful stone in the middle of the pond, and place a pot on it with some interesting plant or decorate it with some figure, for example, a mermaid. Such a move will certainly attract the attention of others.

• To keep the water in your pond clean for as long as possible, you need to protect it from leaves, branches and insects falling from trees with a special mesh design.
• If, nevertheless, the leaves are in the water, a net will help you: just remove unnecessary debris from the water so that it stays clean for as long as possible, and the pond delights you with its beauty. But the net will not help get rid of debris from the bottom of the reservoir. Therefore, it is sometimes necessary to clean the pond with a water purifier.

In summer, we all want to have a good rest by the water, but not everyone has the opportunity to go to the sea. Someone spends their summer holidays at their own dacha, but even on small area you can create a zone for yourself comfortable rest with the help of an artificial pond, made by hand.

Pond for a summer residence - where to start

So that the issue of building a reservoir does not seem so complicated, it is necessary to break the whole process into several stages and sequentially carry them out.

To begin with, decide on a place for a future artificial pond and its size in a summer cottage.

How to choose the most suitable site for a pond in the country:

Important! It is easier to build a pond of a small area. If you are confused by the amount of work or the financial side of the issue, start with a small lake.

Perhaps later, having the experience and skills of work, you will create a fairly voluminous version of the reservoir with your own hands in the country, a good experience in the preparation is shown in the video

We determine the size and shape of the future reservoir in the country

The depth of the reservoir, according to experts, should not be too large; for an artificial lake, a depth of up to two meters will be enough. The deepest part is usually done in 1/5 of the area of ​​the entire reservoir.

When planning a pond, consider the landscape of your summer cottage. Designers advise doing it on a flat surface area, and if the terrain of the country house is hilly, with slopes, in this case it is better to opt for a current stream or cascade.

It is necessary to choose which version of the pond will be the most profitable and interesting to fit into the landscape of your summer cottage. Designers of landscape objects offer a lot of options for the execution of decorative reservoirs, you just need to delve into the intricacies and nuances of various projects and choose the best one that is optimally suited for your dacha.

Varieties of the shape of water bodies

The reservoir can be with clear geometric lines of the coast, especially if it is located on the territory near the mansion, built in a strict aristocratic style, with alleys, paths, flower beds of regular geometric shapes. In this option, a pond or lake will organically fit into the overall interior of the site.

A small pond can be made round or oval, use moisture-loving plants to decorate it.

If you want to get closer to the natural landscape, the coastline is made in a winding or arbitrary shape, so that it resembles a natural reservoir in the country as much as possible.

In advance, it is necessary to think over the design style of the artificial lake, so that it is combined with the style of the rest of the dacha, complementing it.

Before starting work in the country, you must also consider how you plan to use your future artificial pond. If you want to get a place for swimming, then it will not be possible to breed fish in it. The decorative reservoir cannot be used for swimming due to sanitary standards and hygiene requirements.

When choosing the size of a future reservoir, keep in mind that an artificial pond is the same biosystem as a natural pond or lake, with an optimal ratio of flora and fauna, with a water purification system, self-regulation of microorganisms.

It is easier to monitor and maintain the ecological balance in large artificial reservoirs, in small, as well as in small aquariums, it is much more difficult to maintain the necessary balance. But in making it with your own hands, both financially and in terms of labor costs, it is much easier to make a small pond.

The shape of the pit under the pond in the country

It is clear that in order to make an artificial reservoir in the country, first of all, you need to dig a foundation pit of appropriate shapes and sizes. The pit under the pond has its own characteristics. In shape, it resembles a deep plate with wide edges, as seen in the photo.

A shallow coastal zone should be made along the edges of the pit, then there is a ledge that prevents the overflow of water from the coastal zone to the bathing zone, and vice versa. A recess is made in the center to the required size.

To maintain ecological balance, the water in the pond must circulate, otherwise it will quickly become clogged, silted up and lose its decorative and attractiveness.

In a small pond in the country, to maintain cleanliness, a skimmer is installed to clean the surface layer of water from pollution, and a UV sterilizer. To do this, drainage pipes are installed at the bottom of the reservoir, through which water is pumped into the filter and back to the bathing area, as in the photo.

Materials for waterproofing the bottom of the reservoir

There can be several options for making a waterproof bottom of a reservoir:

1. Using the finished plastic mold. Such a choice of the bottom greatly simplifies the procedure for manufacturing a reservoir for a summer residence, but it limits the choice of sizes, the shape of the banks and the volume of the water space, the shape and dimensions of the selected container. Typically, such a container has a small volume up to 4 m 3;
2. The bottom of the reservoir in the country can be made of concrete, but this will be a rather laborious procedure, in addition, additional frost protection will be required to avoid cracking the concrete base. In addition, if it becomes necessary to remake or dismantle the pond in the country, this will be quite problematic;
3. One of the most budget options for giving there will be a bottom of a reservoir of clay, but the process is quite labor-intensive. It will be necessary to apply two layers of clay dough to the bottom of the reservoir bowl, and then also strengthen the bottom with fine gravel, pressing it into the clay layer;
4. The most optimal and most used method is the use of a special film laid on the bottom of the pit.

Important! If the width of the film roll does not allow covering the entire bottom of the pit with one single piece, it is necessary to weld the seams so that water cannot seep out of the reservoir.

When choosing a film, keep in mind that cheaper options have a much shorter service life, break down faster under the influence of frost and sunlight, video

Excavation work

Digging a pit with your own hands under a reservoir of 20-30m 2 or more is not an easy task. Perhaps it will be easier to attract equipment in the form of a small excavator. With a small amount of earthwork, you may manage on your own or by hiring several workers armed with shovels, video

The main thing is to correctly designate the dimensions and shape of the required pit.

We mark the boundaries of the future reservoir with a rope or hose, you can sprinkle the contours with sand so that they can be easily distinguished. Then, along the contour of the coastline, we dig a trench approximately to the depth of the bayonet, so we get the first level of depth - the line of the swamp zone, up to 40 cm deep and 30-50 cm wide. Then inside we dig the next level with a gradual deepening towards the center of the pit, so that as a result got a bowl, as in the photo.

The second level is made to a depth of 1 meter, the deepest third level is in the center of the pit.

Important! In the process of digging a pit, check the level of the banks, they must be the same height.

Along the perimeter of the dug pit, they dig another ditch, up to 30 cm deep, so that the edges of the film can be laid and fixed in it.

Film laying

Before laying the film, the bottom of the pit must be leveled, compacted, stones, tree roots, and debris removed. Then a layer of sand is poured, 15-20 cm, carefully leveled and compacted. After that, a layer of roofing material or geotextile is laid, old linoleum can be used, and then the bottom is lined with a film.

The edges of the film are fixed with bricks or stones, and after that the reservoir is filled with water. Water is poured in several portions, if there are air bubbles under the film, they need to be removed in the process of filling the reservoir with water, consider the experience of others on the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlxWYFNrkig. After that, the ends of the film are laid in a prepared ditch, fixed with gravel or large stones.

Do-it-yourself arrangement of a reservoir in the country house step by step

When you fill the pond in the country with water, measure how much water is required. This will be the capacity of your pond. In accordance with these data, it will be possible to select the necessary power for a pump, filters and other equipment for water purification in a pond in the country. Usually it can be purchased as a kit and installed with your own hands in accordance with the instructions.

Then you need to strengthen the edge so that the earth does not crumble into the reservoir, and arrange the coastline in accordance with your project.

A large stone can be laid out at the bottom, it must be round in shape so as not to damage the film and not injure the swimmers. You can also decorate the banks of the pond in the country with stones, it is better if large boulders alternate with smaller stones. In addition to stones, driftwood can be used in the design of a reservoir in the country, wooden structures, animal figurines and other options.

Moisture-loving plants with large leaves, such as bergenia, as well as ferns, lilies of the valley, and coniferous shrubs, are also suitable for decorating the banks of a reservoir in a country house. In shallow water, you can plant plants such as calamus, reeds, cattail, or water lily, as in the video

Water lilies and lotus are located in the center of the pond for summer cottages. interesting design decision there will be a flower arrangement floating in the center of the reservoir, as in the photo.

Usually, plants in special containers or pots are used to decorate decorative reservoirs; it is convenient to remove them while cleaning the bottom and replacing water.

Conclusion

The creation of a reservoir in the country is within the power of everyone, the main thing is to carefully consider the recommendations of specialists. Of course, you will have to spend time and money, but as a result you will get a wonderful place to relax and enjoy spending time in your country house.

One of the brightest tools in landscape design is a decorative pond. Of course, most of the suburban areas are limited to the traditional six acres, and the owners simply cannot build a large pond, 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 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 the pond on the site will pursue. From this point of view, water bodies can be divided into four large groups.

Table number 1. Classification of artificial reservoirs by functionality

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

Second phase. Deciding on style

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

Table number 2. Styles of artificial reservoirs

The relief of the site also plays a big role in choosing the style. So, if the surface is sufficiently even, 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 waterfall. In addition, against the background of all this, say, an artificial slide will look great.

Also, the reservoir can be slightly raised 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 excavation are minimized, and it will be much easier to care for him.

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

Third stage. Choose a place

Let's start with the fact that we place the reservoir in the most suitable place, so that it is possible to admire our creation from anywhere in 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 depend on it.
2. illumination. It is preferable to place an artificial reservoir in a shady place where exposure to direct sunlight does not exceed five to six hours a day, otherwise some of the water may simply evaporate. Moreover, in sunlight, biological activity can develop, which is unlikely to beautify 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 installation of additional elements (for example, 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 greater the depth of the pond, the more illuminated the place it should be placed. If the reservoir is intended for fish, then we take the location even more responsibly, since the oxygen content in strongly heated water decreases.

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

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

Fourth stage. Deciding on sizes

It is difficult to say that a large pond will cost more than a small one, since there are a lot of nuances here. So let's look at the key points.

1. Dimensions. They depend on the location of the reservoir. Many say that the pond should be an average of 3-10% of the total area of ​​the site, although there can be no clear recommendations in this case. As for the length and width specifically, they depend not only on the area 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. The difficulty of the content. The larger the pond, the easier (no matter how paradoxical it may sound) to take care of 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 (from 40 cm to 100 cm), where crops that grow deeper will be planted (for example, winter-hardy water lily);
• deep-water (more than 100 cm) - it is required only in those reservoirs where fish breeding is planned; the area of ​​this zone depends primarily 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 clean itself. No oxygenation or chlorination of water is provided 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 freezing line of the soil, especially if you plan to breed fish - so they can survive the winter in non-freezing water.

Fifth stage. Choosing materials

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

concrete pond

The most expensive option, which, nevertheless, allows you to operate the reservoir sufficiently for a long time. Although concrete pouring is more suitable for arranging a pool.

Finished plastic container

This option is more suitable. A 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:

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

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

Note! It is preferable to use a fiberglass bowl, which is reinforced with rubber - this design is more reliable and suitable for repair.

Polymer film

In terms of the shape of the pond, this option provides simply unlimited possibilities. by the most available material is a plastic film, although it will not last long.

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 bottoms and great depths, it is recommended to use a butyl rubber (EPDM) membrane, which has a service life of up to 50 years. In addition, this material is able to withstand repeated frosts.

There are a few folk ways production of a reservoir in which improvised materials are used. Let's get acquainted with the most popular of these methods.

Pond from an old bath

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

Tire Pond

An easy way to create a mini-pond on the site. The manufacturing process is shown in the photo below.

Pond from a basin

An even easier way. The basin is able to retain 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 of the yard.

Note! Not only the aesthetic characteristics of the pond, but also its service life depend on the choice of material. 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 you will need the following equipment:

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

Seventh stage. We 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, takes the desired shape better, it can be repaired, and specific knowledge or skills are not required for work.

Step 1. First, choose 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 reservoir will look more like a pool, and the fish on a light background will be more clearly visible.
3. brown- will imitate the soil of natural reservoirs. Great option for a landscape pond.

Also, when choosing a film, we pay attention to the composition (PVC is more durable than PE) and thickness (for a pond, material thicker than 0.5 mm is required). At the same time than great depth reservoir, the greater should be the thickness of the film. No less 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) + margin (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 a schema.

First, draw it on paper, and then transfer it to the ground. We indicate the dimensions of the steps or "shelves" for plants - this will avoid possible problems. For marking, 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. Roem a pit. To do this, perform the following steps.

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

When carrying out earthworks, we pay attention to ensuring that the banks 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 underlay. 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 soil.

The substrate can be made in several ways:

• we cover the bottom with stones and fill it with sand (this kind of waterproofing will lose its properties in a few years);
• we lay a layer of geotextile, which we fill up with sand (it will cost a large amount);
• lay PVC film (most reliable way, so we will focus on it).

Step 6 Next, we lay the film, preferably on a sandy "cushion" (the latter will prevent damage by stones and other dangerous objects). It is advisable to lay on a hot day - heating up, the film becomes more pliable.

This may cause problems with the formation of folds. We try to make one large fold, and not a large number of small ones, then glue it or press it down with stones. The film must be loose, loose.

For its fastening, a swarm along the perimeter of an additional trench. We lay the film there, after which we fall asleep crushed stone. Next, we fill the trench with large stones with a flat bottom (so that the film does not tear). 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. We strengthen the coast. Their slope depends on the type of soil: if it is sandy, then the walls should be sloping, 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 gentle, then you can use:

• geomat;
• geogrid;
• polymer geogrid.

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

If the coast is steep, then we can use:

• piles;
• gabions;
• retaining walls.

It can also be effectively strengthened with the help of biological methods (planting). Ideally, biological amplification methods should be combined with engineering ones.

Eighth stage. Making an artificial pond

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

As a conclusion. Features of care

As a result, a few words about the further care of the artificial reservoir.

Video - Creating a pond from a film

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

Key points for arranging a pond

If you have made such a decision, do not immediately grab a shovel. 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 the arrangement of the pond;
• vegetation for the pond, its decoration.

Don't let difficulties scare you, they are all easily overcome. A small financial outlay, a few days of work, and the “crystal” dream of any summer resident will appear on your site - the quiet expanse of a pond or a babbling fountain sparkling in the sun with a multi-colored rainbow.

Choosing a place for an ornamental pond: it is important not to make a mistake

When choosing a place for a pond, keep in mind that the pond will not be a place for breeding fish or swimming, it will only serve as a decorative function. However, it is very important that a natural ecological system be 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, in small ponds the water 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 it is considered such when the sun's rays warm up the pond only in the first or second half of the day. It is desirable that in the afternoon it 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 a future reservoir. It is enough to mark the contours of the future pond with a rope or white sand and follow during the day which part of it will be illuminated by the sun.

Determine the level of illumination of the place allotted for the pond

If there is no house or garden structures near the place allotted for the pond, a tree or bush can shade it. Trees with a weeping crown shape look very beautiful near the pond, but in this case, you will have to regularly clean the water from fallen leaves.

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

If the summer cottage is flat, you can choose a place for a pond on the border of the garden, marked by trees or bushes. You can allocate 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 plantations - a strip of perennials or ornamental grasses.

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

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 in a solid wall - your gaze should slide over the mirror of the water.

Effectively and stylishly looks decorative pond next to alpine slide or rockery. Making a hill and a pond the same forms stones, you can link them into a single compositional whole.

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

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

The shape and style of the reservoir

Pond as an element landscape design must match a certain style. Round ponds are a favorite form of the English landscape.

Round ponds are widely used in English landscapes.

Precise geometric shapes are best for a regular style. Ponds irregular shape, which follow the shape of natural reservoirs, are popular in classical Chinese and Japanese gardens.

An irregularly shaped pond is an ideal addition to a Chinese or Japanese style garden.

Today, it is not at all necessary to strive for a do-it-yourself constructed pond in the country house to have a natural or strict geometric shape. The main thing is that it should fit perfectly into the landscape of the garden.

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

With special care, materials are selected for the design of the coast and the coastal zone.

Materials for the design of the shores of the reservoir are selected very carefully. Clinker, a 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 the 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 ​​\u200b\u200bthe reservoir does not exceed 5 sq.m, ready-made plastic bowls are mainly used.

It is convenient to use ready-made plastic bowls for arranging reservoirs with an area of ​​\u200b\u200bno more than 5 sq.m.

They are very easy to install, and they will serve for decades. The disadvantage of plastic molds is that they have a strictly defined shape and small volume.

Those wishing to create a reservoir for individual project, it is worth using a waterproofing film. It is very elastic and easily deformed to the desired shape. There are three types of this material.

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

Polyethylene film is cheaper than PVC, but it does not have the same elasticity and durability. If the polyethylene leaks, you can “treat” it with a 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 water pressure. For a reservoir whose depth does not exceed 80 cm, a film 0.8 mm thick is sufficient. If the depth is greater, the film thickness should be 1.2 - 1.5 mm.

The best option for an artificial pond - butyl rubber film. The free ends of the film can be masked with stones

On the shore of a reservoir, the bottom of which is made of film, the stones should hang slightly above the water. This way you can mask the free ends of the film.

Another option for arranging a reservoir is a monolithic concrete pit. For ponds with correct geometric shapes- this is the most convenient way to make. Although, in order to build such a pond, one must have the skills to work with concrete, be able to install formwork and reinforcement. In addition, it is necessary to plan the location of the reservoir very accurately, 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, a reinforcing steel mesh is used, and the inner surfaces of the pit are also covered with protective layer from 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 install. You can easily install such a container yourself, spending only 1-2 days.

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

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

Operating procedure

1. Install the finished container in the place reserved for the pond. So that she does not bend over, put her on the bricks. Circle the edges of the container with light sand or lime. In order for the pit to correspond to the relief of the tank, it is necessary to accurately mark out zones of different heights.

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

3. Install the bowl of the reservoir in the pit, using the level, make sure that the bowl is horizontal. Adjust the depth of the pit if necessary.

4. Fill the container with water a third 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 a place for a reservoir, we proceed to its construction.

1. Mark the contours of the pond banks with light sand or dry lime. Dig a ditch around the perimeter on a spade bayonet. removed sod and fertile soil collect separately.

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

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

4. A layer of sand should be poured at the bottom of the pit, geotextiles or interlining 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 down the bottom and terraces with stones. The film should settle gradually.

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

A quick way to create a pond mine 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 with one interesting way creating a pond out of uselessness, I’ll still introduce you. I stumbled upon these photos while surfing the endless expanses of the Internet.

We make a decorative pond from an old car tire

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

The larger the diameter of the tire, the larger the pond will turn out. Tires from the wheels of KAMAZ, BELAZ or the Belarus tractor will allow you to build a decent-sized pond. top tires are cut off.

Having folded the film in two layers, we line the bottom and sides of the tire. We bend 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 pond and coastal zone

In the balance of the ecosystem of a reservoir, even a very small one, a special role is given to plants - those that grow on the shore and those that live in the water. Therefore, they must be selected very carefully.

Decoration of the coastal zone

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

Artificial pond in natural style impresses with lush vegetation

For reservoirs in a regular style, strict symmetry is characteristic. Plants on the shore are planted in a certain order. Large rectangular slabs are laid around the pond. Look stylish wooden decking and embankments.

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

Japanese-style ponds give the beholder a sense of harmony and tranquility

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

For ornamental ponds, which are most often found in our dachas, the main thing is a spectacular appearance. If there is enough space on the shore, tall perennials are planted: gunner, rogers, host, bergenia, marsh iris, astilba. Between the stones, closer to the water, you can plant tenacity, stonecrops, forget-me-nots.

Aquatic plants for ponds

Particular attention should be paid 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 ranunculus, 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, due to which the water will not be visible at all.

To control the development of 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 coastal stones. In containers, heat-loving specimens will find their place, 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 how deep to plant aquatic plants. In garden ponds, five zones of different depths are conditionally distinguished.

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

Shallow water (depth from 10 to 40 cm). Plants with tubular stems feel good here - reeds, calamus, whorled urt.

The deep-water zone starts at 40 cm. This is the habitat of plants with floating leaves - nymphaeum, as well as aponogeton bicuspid, arrowhead, elodea - plants that hide under water.

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

Filters and pumps for ornamental pond

In order for the pond 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 easily be hidden under rocks. Right choice pump for the pond will help to carry out a specialist. After all, the power of the pump is determined by the volume of water.

Choosing a place for the pump, and placing it on concrete slab or brick, it is necessary to mark the line for laying the water pipe and electric cable. The cable is placed in a special reinforced tube and together with water pipe masked with small stones and pebbles. The pump is connected to the 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 creative task“excellent”, and the place by the pond will become not only a habitat for dragonflies and butterflies, but also a favorite vacation spot for the whole family.

The pond should begin with choosing a suitable location and determining the size of the future pond. The best place is at the lowest point, but at the same time make sure that it is well lit by the sun throughout the day. It is important that there are no widely developed crowns nearby. Otherwise, they will constantly fall into the water, and large roots can seriously disrupt the waterproofing of the reservoir.

The size of the pond depends on the scale of the entire site and the intentions of its owner. A pond with a diameter of about 3.5 m and a depth of about 100-120 cm is considered a classic. But if the site is small, you can make a pond about a meter in size and no more than 50 cm deep. It is important to remember that if you plan to breed some aquatic plants, the depth should be a little more - about 100 cm.

The next step in the construction of the pond will be the preparation of the pit. In fact, it is just a pit of a certain depth with a relatively flat bottom and walls. Almost any shape of the pit can be made. If it is subsequently intended to use a ready-made form for waterproofing, then the foundation pit should follow its lines. If there is no rigid form, you can give the future pond the contours of a circle, oval, figure eight, etc. The walls of the finished pit are cleaned of protruding roots and sharp stones, and the bottom is covered with a thick layer of sand, which is well compacted.

Creating a good waterproofing is a very important stage in the arrangement of the pond. If the choice is on a purchased rigid form, it is important to make sure that it is made of quality material. Cheap plastic will quickly crack and crumble under the influence of sunlight and temperature changes. Homemade waterproofing is usually made either from concrete, filling the bottom and walls of the pit with it, or from a film laid in several layers. For flexible waterproofing, you should choose PVC film or, if the budget allows, butyl rubber. Such material can last from 15 to 30 years. The bottom and walls of the pit are lined with a film, leaving small allowances for fixing at the edges.

The finished pond is decorated along the edges with natural materials: large cobblestones, plants, lined with turf. To replenish with fresh water, it is good to draw an artificial stream to the pond, the edges of which can also be overlaid with natural stone. The bottom can be decorated with a variety of stones (necessarily with blunt edges) and aquatic plants planted in baskets or small permeable containers. Most matching colors are water lilies (nymphs), beautifully covering the surface of the water.