Where should you place a newly built pond?

When beginning the process of installing your first koi pond there are several factors to consider.  One factor that may not seem that difficult at first is the placement of your newly installed koi pond.  This is a decision you’ll want to get right the first time because once it’s in the ground it’s probably not moving.  Here are some things to consider when deciding where in your yard to place a koi pond.  

There are several things to consider. First, koi ponds do better in a shaded area than in full sun. Full sun will work, but a shaded area will generally slow the algae growth down and will prevent the water from possibly getting too hot during the summer months.

 

Shade vs. Sun 

Koi ponds typically perform better in shaded areas opposed to full, all day sun.  That doesn’t mean a “full sun” pond cannot thrive.  However, a shaded area will help prevent or slow the growth of algae.  The shade also helps to prevent your water from getting too hot during the summer months.  Hot pond water can be dangerous for your fish.   

Tree debris

The shade that trees provide is great for a pond.  However you will want to consider the potential for leaf debris in your pond, especially during the fall season.  You can prevent some debris from getting in your pond water by using a leaf net during the fall months.  You will want to avoid building a pond near trees that drop pine needles, acorns, or tannin producing leaves (oak trees, birch trees, willow trees) which could turn your pond water brown.  A well built pond shouldn’t be drastically affected from leaf debris however it’s great to take preventative measures to keep your pond water clear. 

Build it close

This may be obvious but the closer the pond the better.  Wherever you spend most of your time outdoors is where you will want to have your koi pond.  Some homeowners with larger yards want to place their new pond at the furthest spot in their yard.  Their thought process is that they will spend more time in this area of their yard that they hardly use. 

However, you will not get the same enjoyment if you place your beautiful pond far away.  Place your pond where you can enjoy it the most! Ideally you want it just a few footsteps away so you can open your backdoor and immediately enjoy the sights and sounds of your koi pond.  It’s even better if you can see your pond from a window.  Imagine being able to capture amazing moments of wildlife stopping by your pond and seeing it all from your living room window.  Keeping your pond close is always your best bet.  

 

Wherever you place your pond, it will likely be the central feature in your landscape, so make that thing as visible as possible.