Where should I put my new koi or fish pond?

You're excited, you know you want a koi pond!  You can't wait to be able to watch your new fish swimming around and relax to the soothing sounds of your new waterfall and stream.  But you are struggling with where to put it in your yard.  This is a common question we receive, where should I put my new koi or fish pond?  

While researching your new pond you may have read, don't put it in full sun,  near a tree due to all the leaves and debris, or in a shady area.   For most these three DO NOTS of placement for a koi or fish pond pretty much eliminate anyone from having these beautiful additions to their landscape. Candidly, very few ,if anyone, has a "perfect" backyard if we listen to the three DO NOTS.   Let's first address the "Do Nots".  

Fish Pond Placement "Do Nots"

While all three of the DO NOTS are valid concerns, the potential problems they can cause, can also be avoided.  

1. Full Sun Myth- It's said that if the pond is in full sun algae will grow prolifically.  (FACT: While this can be the case, as long as the pond has the correct filtration, fish load, and most importantly aquatic plants the pond will function properly.   Constructing your pond in full sun can be done. ) 
2. Near Tree Myth-  If your pond is near trees it will always be dirty due to all the leaves in the fall and the debris from the spring.  (FACT: While the trees will drop leaves and debris the installation of a pond skimmer will help keep the pond clean of debris.  In addition the netting of your pond will keep a majority of the leaves out in the fall.  If you have trees, it's ok) 
   
3. Shade Myth: If your pond is in shade, you can't have any plants, it will be a barren pond and algae could grow more than usually.  (FACT:  Having your pond in full shade can prove to be a challenge when adding plants.  As it turns out though, there are many shade tolerant aquatic plants that can be added to provide the vegetation the pond requires.  There are even a couple of shade tolerant water lilies, while you may not have prolific flowers it will still be beautiful . 

You can see how all three of the DO NOTS aren't really a problem and there are ways to combat the myths.  We still haven't answered the question though, Where should I put my new koi or fish pond?  

Where do I put my pond? 

Answer: We recommend installing your koi pond in an area where you are going to enjoy it the most!  
How do you know where that is?   Most times ponds are installed off a deck or patio, as these areas seem to be where most people spend their time having their morning coffee, evening beverage, and entertaining.   
We often ask many questions before suggesting the perfect place to install a new koi pond.  Sometimes we will even suggest paying attention to where in the yard most of your time is spent, that will be the place to have your koi pond installed.  
Even if you don't venture outside often now,  a pond will draw you out to your outdoor space, creating an area for you to enjoy.  In this case, you want to keep it as close to the house as possible.  Many times we will see koi ponds far away from the house, and often the owners won't venture that far to enjoy their waterfall or fish.  
Now that you know how to decide on the best placement for you and your family, get out there, start planning, and have FUN! 

Related Links:

• Do I need a permit in NJ to install a fish pond or water feature?
• How do I choose the right pond contractor in Morris County, NJ
• ​Questions about Pond Maintenance Answered

A Frog’s Dream Aquatic Services is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Morris County New Jersey (NJ) Hunterdon County New Jersey (NJ) Somerset County (NJ) and Warren County (NJ). Fish and Koi Pond Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and  Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily inspiration.  Receive #TheWeeklyRibbit for weekly water feature tips and a fun video