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The size and placement of your water garden are perhaps the most important factors in determining the level of its success.  There are several critical factors to consider before you begin to dig, each having its own merit but also depending on the others.  Take your time, plan carefully, and keep the following points in mind and you will create a water feature that will be enjoyed by young and old alike for many years to come.

A well designed pond is:

• a compliment to and will blend into the surrounding landscape, while at the same time be the focal point of the garden.  It should be attractive in shape and of a size that is in proportion the rest of the area.  Keep in mind that most water gardeners enlarge their ponds after only one or two years.  You can avoid this costly make-over by designing your pond large enough the first time.
• very easy to maintain.  Constructing your pond with maintenance in mind and taking advantage of some of the latest filtration equipment available will minimize maintenance and maximize enjoyment.
• a showcase for many beautiful aquatic plants.  Spectacular lilies, lotus, and countless other aquatic plants are readily available to turn your garden pond into a work of art.
• a healthy habitat for fish, frogs, tadpoles and a variety of aquatic animals.  By using proper circulation and filtration, well designed plant areas and a deeper area for fish (36-42”), you will provide a healthy year ‘round home for all of your aquatic ‘pets’.
• a healthy, low maintenance, balanced ecosystem.

Place your garden in a SUNNY LOCATION.
Most aquatic plants require a minimum 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.  Even then they will not be as vigorous as plants that receive full sun.  Some aquatics will tolerate shade but these varieties are typically less spectacular.

Stay away from OVERHANGING TREES.
Trees and large shrubs will create unwanted shade, reducing the vigor of your plants.   Their ever-expanding root systems can eventually cause problems with your pond liner and surrounding stonework.  The leaves and needles which drop into your pond create an unwanted maintenance problem as they must be removed or they will decay and produce toxic gases which can be lethal to your fish and plants.

Choose a VISIBLE SITE.
Your water garden should be placed where you can enjoy it the most from both inside and outside your home.  Consider the view from all areas such as your family room, dining room, deck or patio, kitchen window, etc.  Decide now where you want to see and hear your water feature from the most and start from there.  A site that seems perfect for other reasons but is far removed from your living space usually proves to be a poor choice.

Choose a PROTECTED SITE.
Many aquatic plants demand calm, warm water protected from harsh winds.  In order to please your water lilies and prevent your tall plants from toppling over locate your pond in an area protected from strong winds.  Tall shrubs can be used around your water garden for wind protection as well as beauty and interest.

Choose a WELL DRAINED SITE.
Although natural ponds occur in low lying areas, your water garden should not be put in a low, water logged location.  Such an area can make installation very difficult and run off water entering your pond will cause pH problems, murky water and other more serious conditions which can be harmful or even fatal to fish and plants.

Choose a site ACCESSIBLE TO ELECTRICITY.
Even if your plans do not include a fountain, waterfall, filter or other device
which requires a pump right now, you would be wise to plan your pond with possible future uses in mind.  This will save you much time, frustration and money later.  You may need to install an aerator or pond de-icer, or wish to install lighting to show off your night blooming water lilies.

While it is rare to find that perfect site that meets all of the selection criteria, it is usually not difficult to adapt most any site to enable you to create a water garden that you will enjoy and be proud of.