Before You Build a Waterfall: Essential Considerations

Kits and Resources for First-Timers

Pond equipment suppliers offer packaged kits with manuals, videos, filters, pumps, and liners, or individual parts. Take a class, read books like Garden Pools, Fountains & Waterfalls (Sunset Publishing, 2001), and tour local water gardens (many suppliers sponsor “Parade of Ponds” tours).

Key Design Factors

• THE SOURCE. Angle falls and flank with boulders/plants to create illusion of a natural source, avoiding a “spilling from the wall” look.
• PUMP. Calculate pond volume (cubic feet × 7.48 = gallons). Industry standard: recirculate all water every 2 hours. Pumps rated in gph; performance drops with head height. Use pump charts to match gph at your waterfall height.
• ROCKS. Buy “head” sizes (one- and two-head rocks work best). Blend colors; include naturally occurring site rocks. Suppliers may deliver and place large boulders for a fee.
• FISH. Koi need plants covering ⅔ of water surface for hiding. If predators persist, switch to goldfish. Bird netting or fishing line can protect fish.
• COST. Preformed pond shells start around $500; large custom systems exceed $25,000. Choose for your budget.