How to Build and Maintain a Low-Maintenance Garden Pond

[TEG Project Manager]

There’s something magical about having a pond in your backyard. The sound of trickling water, the sight of dragonflies dancing above the surface, and the gentle ripples that reflect the sky—it all creates a peaceful, calming vibe. The good news? You don’t need a giant yard or tons of experience to build a beautiful, low-maintenance garden pond. In fact, you can create a relaxing water feature that’s easy to care for and fun to enjoy all year round.

Let’s dive in (not literally!) and explore how to build and maintain a simple pond that won’t take up all your time or energy.

Step 1: Pick the Perfect Spot​

The first step to building a great garden pond is choosing the right location. You want a spot that gets about 4–6 hours of sunlight a day, but not full sun all day long—that can lead to algae problems.

Also, try to place your pond away from large trees. Falling leaves can mess up the water and clog things up. Choose a flat area, and if possible, pick a place where you’ll see and hear the pond from your patio, porch, or kitchen window.

Step 2: Decide on Size and Style​

You don’t need a huge pond to make a big impact. In fact, smaller ponds (3–6 feet wide) are easier to care for and perfect for beginners. You can even use a large pre-formed pond liner or a sturdy container like a whiskey barrel or galvanized tub for a mini pond!

There are two main styles to choose from:

• Natural-style pond: Looks like a small wildlife pond with rocks, plants, and soft edges.
• Formal pond: Has clean lines, maybe a square or circle shape, and often uses bricks or pavers.

Both are beautiful—it just depends on your taste!

Step 3: Install the Pond Liner​

If you’re going for a dug-out pond, here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Dig a hole in the shape and depth you want. Go at least 18 inches deep for fish or water lilies.
2. Remove rocks and sharp objects from the hole.
3. Add a layer of sand or underlayment to cushion the bottom.
4. Place a flexible pond liner (like EPDM rubber) over the hole. Let it drape naturally.
5. Fill with water slowly, adjusting the liner as you go.
6. Trim the edges, leaving a few inches extra, and hide them with rocks, bricks, or plants.

If you're using a pre-formed liner or container, just level the ground and drop it in!

Step 4: Add a Pump or Fountain​

To keep your water fresh and moving (and mosquito-free!), you’ll want a small pond pump or fountain. Look for one that:

• Fits the size of your pond (check the gallons per hour, or GPH).
• Has a built-in filter or attachment.
• Is solar-powered, if you want a super easy setup!

Circulating water keeps algae down and adds that soothing trickle sound we all love.

Step 5: Choose Low-Maintenance Pond Plants​

Plants are your best friends when it comes to a healthy pond. They help clean the water, give shade to reduce algae, and make your pond look natural. Here are some easy, low-maintenance pond plants to try:

• Water lilies – Beautiful blooms and shade
• Duckweed – Tiny floating leaves that multiply fast
• Iris – Adds height and color
• Pickerelweed – Pollinator-friendly and pretty
• Hornwort – An underwater oxygenator

Use a mix of floating, submerged, and edge plants for balance. And don’t overcrowd—your pond needs room to breathe!

Optional: Add Fish (or Not!)​

You don’t have to add fish, but if you want them, stick to small, hardy types like:

• Goldfish (common or comet)
• Rosy red minnows
• Mosquito fish (great for insect control)

Fish are fun to watch, but they do add to the upkeep a little. Start with just a few and don’t overfeed!

How to Keep Your Pond Low-Maintenance​

Here’s where your pond really becomes a relaxing addition to your yard—not a chore! Follow these simple maintenance tips to keep your pond clean and thriving with minimal effort:

Weekly:​

• Remove any large leaves or debris floating on the surface.
• Check that your pump or fountain is working.

Monthly:​

• Clean or rinse the pump filter (just in pond water, not tap water).
• Thin out fast-growing plants like duckweed or hornwort if needed.

Seasonally:​

• In fall, net the pond or scoop out leaves to prevent build-up.
• In winter (if you get frost), keep a small hole in the ice for oxygen exchange.
• In spring, check for leaks and remove sludge if needed.

Tip: If your water starts turning green, that’s probably algae. It’s normal in small amounts, but too much means you need more shade (plants), better water circulation, or fewer nutrients (fish food, fertilizer runoff, etc.).

Extra Touches for Your Pond Paradise​

Want to make your pond even more special? Try adding:

• A solar-powered light for a glow at night
• A small bridge or stepping stones
• A bench nearby for morning coffee or evening reflection
• A log or flat rock where frogs or birds can perch

And don't be surprised if you get some wild visitors! Birds, frogs, dragonflies, and butterflies love small ponds.

A Pond You’ll Actually Enjoy​

Creating a backyard pond is one of the most rewarding garden projects you can do. And when you keep it simple and natural, it doesn’t have to take over your life. With just a few hours of setup and a little love now and then, you’ll have a peaceful, wildlife-friendly water feature you’ll enjoy for years.

So grab a shovel, pick your plants, and start building your backyard oasis—you deserve it!