Water Gardening Basics: Build a Backyard Pond with Lilies

What Is Water Gardening?

Combining water features and aquatic plants for a garden-like effect. A small pond is the classic starting point.

Step-by-Step Pond Build

1. Size: Start slightly larger than a birdbath; expand later.
2. Liner: Purchase a preformed rigid liner or flexible pond liner. Dig hole, set liner, backfill.
3. Fill and Plant: Add water, then aquatic plants.

Water Lilies: Stars of the Pond

Floating leaves, stunning flowers in many colors. Roots anchor in submerged pots. Thrive in warm weather; may need winter protection in cold zones.

Mosquito Control

Moving water (small pump), mosquito fish (Gambusia), or Bti dunks prevent breeding.

Expand Your Palette

Marginal plants (iris, pickerelweed), oxygenators (anacharis), floaters (water hyacinth). Match plants to pond depth and climate.