Koi

Firstly, it must be said that employing the services of an experienced, professional contractor will usually result in a high quality Koi pond, although many previously inexperienced Koi keepers have successfully constructed 4–5m3 ponds in as little as three or four days. However, if you do decide to do it yourselves, the first step in the process of pond construction is to consider safety. Even with fences and pond covers, there is no such thing as a completely safe pond, so a pond should not be installed where there is any chance of young children gaining unsupervised access.

The next step is to produce a detailed sketch or plan of the existing garden, with details such as gradients, soil types, underground sewage, electrics or gas pipes, the location of trees, shrubs, sheds, pathways or fence lines. Use the sketch as a blueprint for considering a range of potential locations and designs, influenced by all the above factors, before making the final decision.

As a general rule, bigger ponds provide the stable aquatic environment required by Koi and many keepers suggest that ponds should be no less than 1m deep. It is often considered that the design of the pond should also reflect the design of the surrounding garden. A formal garden that’s broadly symmetrical suits a formal, symmetrical pond, while an informal garden might suit a more informal, ’wildlife’ pond. Many Koi keepers also apply a Chinese, Japanese or even a traditional English theme to their garden and pond.
 

Written by Craig Baldwin

Photo courtesy of Stuart Scott