Gather your supplies.

First Steps

• Any tublike container (see previous page for ideas)
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flexible liner in 20 mil thickness (optional; see Step 1)
• Dechlorinator (available at any aquatic store)
• Large stone or glass objects to add character
• Water plants
• Water creatures

1. If you use an oak barrel: Line it with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flexible liner in 20 mil thickness to keep chemicals from leaching into the water.

2. Consider your site. Look for a spot that offers at least 4 hours of sun each day. Morning sun is kinder to water plants than late-day sun.

Step 3

3. Lay out your plan. Place a variety of objects on the bottom of the pond. Some, such as inverted pots, serve as planting ledges for potted water plants. Other pieces of stone and terra-cotta provide interesting objects to spy through the water as well as places for tadpoles and fish to hide. Fill the pond with water and treat with dechlorinator, according to package directions.