Full instructions on page 111.The gentle murmur of water encourages relaxation and creates a tranquil atmosphere in the garden. Even a small pond, like the one shown here, can be heavy and should therefore be reinforced during the casting process to make it more durable and to prevent it cracking. Try reinforcing your project with mesh or rods, although chicken wire also works well. Be sure to cover the mesh or wire with plenty of concrete so that it is concealed inside and out.
We cast our pond using large plastic tubs. To ensure that the walls are sufficiently thick, use two different sizes of tub, with one able to fit inside the other.
The cable for the pump can hang over the edge and be concealed by surrounding plants. However, it will look better if you drill a hole for the cable in the side of the pot and then seal the hole around the cable with silicone. Leave the sealant to dry before filling your pond with water. If you want to take the pump out and need to remove the cable, cut the sealant away from the hole before removing it and apply a fresh coating of sealant over the hole when you replace the cable.
A pond with a water pump conjures up images of a fountain. Overleaf: Pond with aquatic iris. Around it are hostas, roses and French lavender in pots. Ornaments like the frog can be found at almost any garden centre.
Full instructions on page 111.
A miniature pond is a good home for fish, especially goldfish, though choosing a suitable pump for your fish-filled pond is also important. A large DIY store or garden centre will stock a wide range of pumps. Remember also that you may wish to move the fish somewhere else over winter, as small ponds can freeze solid if they get cold enough.
Pond plants, such as aquatic irises and water lilies, do well in these environments. Put stones on the bottom to give their roots something to cling to, and arrange greenery and flowering plants in pots around the pond to create a miniature oasis.
Water feature with pump amidst ivy and lavender—simple yet beautiful! Full instructions on page 107.
