Have you ever wondered where the perfect spot is for a water feature in your backyard? Do you want to create a beautiful outdoor oasis but aren’t sure where to start?
At Amen Corner Ponds, our designers constantly get the question, “Where would you put this water feature?”
In this post, you’ll learn about the ideal locations for backyard water features, along with some essential considerations to keep in mind when planning.
By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to design your dream backyard water feature with confidence!
The Best Place For A Backyard Water Feature
Integrated Into An Outdoor Living Space
To get the most enjoyment out of your water feature, try integrating it into your outdoor living space.
If you love spending time on your deck, position the water feature where it can be appreciated while you lounge or grill. The closer the feature is to your deck, the more likely you’ll be drawn to admire it or feed the fish.
The same principle applies to other outdoor living elements like fire pits, pergolas, hot tubs, or patios—make sure they all interact and complement one another.
Make It Viewable From Inside The House
Considering that most people spend around 85% of their time indoors, it’s crucial to install your water garden so it can be enjoyed from inside your home.
Amen Corner Ponds owner, Ethan Hammond, insists on this.
His first pond was designed to be visible from bay windows in the kitchen and living room, creating a stunning view and serving as the first thing visitors see when they enter the home.
Advice And Placement Tips For Koi Ponds
General Considerations To Keep In Mind When Choosing Placement
The size and depth of the pond should be appropriate for the number and size of the koi that will be kept. In the Augusta area, the minimum depth for koi ponds is 3 feet.
Koi ponds thrive in areas with partial sunlight. The perfect location for a koi pond is a spot that receives shade during the afternoon sun.
Consider what plants and aquatic plants you’ll choose. They have different light, shade, and watering needs.
Direct sunlight can make the pond too hot for koi in the summer months. A suitable location would be under a tree or in a spot that receives shade from a building or other structure.
*Note that you’ll want to put a net over your pond during fall to keep leaves out of it.
Ensure that the pond is placed in an area with good drainage to prevent runoff from flooding or damaging the pond.
The location should also be free from overhanging branches or other debris that could fall into the pond and contaminate the water.
The pond should be easily accessible for maintenance, such as cleaning or feeding the fish.
The water source for the pond should be easily accessible, and the pond should be close to a power source for filtration and other equipment.
The location should be away from areas with high foot traffic or noise to minimize stress on the fish.
If you want waterfalls, you can make installation easier by placing it near a hill.
The Importance Of Region And Koi Pond Placement
Climate and environmental factors can greatly impact the health and well-being of koi fish. Proper planning and preparation can help ensure a successful and thriving koi Pond.
Southeast
In the Southeast, like in Augusta, it’s essential to place your koi pond in a location that offers partial shade. This region is known for its hot summers and mild winters, so providing shade can help regulate water temperature and prevent excess algae growth. When selecting a spot, consider areas with nearby trees or structures that can cast shadows over the pond during the hottest parts of the day. Proper oxygenation and water circulation are also crucial in this region, so make sure to include a high-quality filter system and consider adding a waterfall or aerator for better oxygen exchange.
Recommended Koi Species
In the Southeast, Asagi, Bekko, and Utsurimono are popular koi species due to their adaptability to warmer temperatures. These species are better suited for the region’s climate, ensuring a healthy and vibrant koi pond.
Pond Size And Depth
For the Southeast, it is recommended to have a minimum pond size of 1,500 gallons, providing adequate space and water volume for the koi. The pond should also have a minimum depth of 3 feet to ensure sufficient insulation and protection from heat and storms, which are common in the region.
Water Temperature
During the warmer months, the ideal temperature range for a koi pond in the Southeast is 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper oxygenation and water circulation are crucial in hot weather to prevent oxygen depletion, ensuring the health and well-being of the koi.
Filter System
Maintaining water quality in the Southeast requires a good quality mechanical and biological filter system. This will help keep the water clean and clear, providing a healthy environment for the koi.
Hurricane And Winter Preparedness
In the event of hurricanes or other severe weather events, it is essential to properly secure and protect the pond and filter system. Additionally, maintaining a backup power supply will ensure proper filtration and oxygenation during power outages. Winter preparedness for koi ponds has its own process.
Southwest
In the Southwest, water evaporation is a significant concern due to the arid climate and high temperatures. It’s crucial to place your koi pond in an area that offers some shade to minimize water loss and maintain a more stable water temperature. This can be achieved by placing the pond near trees, walls, or other structures that provide shade during peak sunlight hours. To further reduce evaporation, consider using a pond cover or floating plants that can shield the water’s surface from direct sunlight.
Recommended Koi Species
Asagi, Kohaku, and Sanke are popular koi species in the Southwest due to their adaptability to warmer temperatures. Their resilience to the region’s climate ensures a thriving koi pond.
Pond Size And Depth
For the Southwest, a recommended minimum pond size of 1,500 gallons provides adequate space and water for the koi. This size ensures a healthy environment for the fish to grow and thrive.
Northeast
The Northeast experiences colder temperatures, so it’s essential to place your koi pond in a location that offers adequate protection from harsh winter conditions. Choose a spot that is shielded from strong winds, such as near a wall or a group of trees. This will help reduce heat loss from the pond and protect the fish from sudden temperature drops. During winter, a pond heater or de-icer can help maintain a suitable water temperature and prevent the pond from freezing over. Additionally, proper insulation and winterization of the pond and filter system are crucial in this region.
Recommended Koi Species
In the Northeast, Kohaku, Showa, and Sanke are popular koi species due to their resilience in colder temperatures. Choosing these species will contribute to a successful koi pond in this region.
Pond Size And Depth
A recommended minimum pond size of 1,000 gallons provides adequate space and water volume for koi in the Northeast. The pond should have a minimum depth of 3 feet to ensure sufficient insulation and protection from freezing.
Water Temperature
The ideal temperature range for a koi pond in the Northeast during the warmer months is 68-75 degrees Fahrenheit. During winter, water temperature should not drop below 39 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the health and survival of the koi.
Filter System
A good quality mechanical and biological filter system is necessary for maintaining water quality in the Northeast. This will help keep the water clean and clear, providing a healthy environment for the koi.
Winterization Tips
To protect the pond and filter system from freezing temperatures, it is essential to properly insulate them. Additionally, reducing feeding frequency and amount during the winter months is crucial for the well-being of the koi.
Midwest
In the Midwest, where winters can be harsh, it’s crucial to place your koi pond in a location that offers protection from cold temperatures and strong winds. Positioning the pond near a house, wall, or a group of trees can help create a barrier against wind and cold. This will reduce heat loss from the pond and help maintain a stable water temperature throughout the year. Ensure the pond has a minimum depth of 4 feet to provide adequate insulation and protection from freezing. Proper winterization and insulation of the pond and filter system, as well as adjusting feeding schedules, are essential for the well-being of your koi during the colder months.
Recommended Koi Species
Asagi, Kohaku, and Showa are popular koi species in the Midwest due to their resilience in colder temperatures. Choosing these species will ensure a successful and thriving koi pond in this region.
Pond Size And Depth
For the Midwest, a recommended minimum pond size of 1,500 gallons provides adequate space and water volume for the koi. The pond should also have a minimum depth of 4 feet to ensure sufficient insulation and protection from freezing, as the region experiences colder temperatures.
Water Temperature
During the warmer months, the ideal temperature range for a koi pond in the Midwest is 68-75 degrees Fahrenheit. In winter, the water temperature should not drop below 39 degrees Fahrenheit, as it is vital to maintain a suitable environment for the koi to survive.
Filter System
In the Midwest, a good quality mechanical and biological filter system is necessary for maintaining water quality. This will help keep the water clean and clear, providing a healthy environment for the koi to thrive.
Winterization Tips
Properly insulating the pond and filter system is essential to protect them from freezing temperatures in the Midwest. Reducing feeding frequency and amount during the winter months is also crucial to ensure the well-being of the koi and to prevent unnecessary stress on their systems during the colder season.
Fountain Water Feature Placement
Any Size Feature: Maximizing Enjoyment and Visual Appeal
When considering the placement of a fountain feature, it’s essential to choose a location where it can be both heard and seen. This is especially true with a bird bath, as most people want to see the birds and hear them.
This will maximize the enjoyment and visual appeal of your fountainscape, regardless of its size.
When considering fountainscape installation, think about nearby sitting areas, walkways, or windows to ensure the feature is accessible and appreciated by everyone. Near a patio, deck, or any outdoor living area is also advisable.
Large Fountain Features: Making a Grand Statement
For large fountain features, ideal locations include the middle of a driveway roundabout, courtyard, or natural area.
These settings provide ample space and visibility for grand water displays, making them the perfect focal point for your outdoor space.
Small Fountain Features: Intimate and Charming
Small fountain features are best placed next to an outdoor living space, by an entrance, or on a tabletop.
This allows the soothing sounds and visuals of the water feature to be enjoyed up close and personal, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere for guests and family members.
Where To NOT Put Your Water Feature
Where You Can’t See It
Our maintenance techs often see homeowners placing their ponds or water features in hidden corners of their yards, away from large windows or decks.
Doing so reduces the enjoyment of the feature, as it cannot be easily seen or appreciated.
Always place your water feature in a visible location that complements the overall design of your outdoor space.
Low Areas In Your Yard
Avoid placing a water feature in low areas of your yard, as rainwater and debris can wash into your pond or waterfall.
This can introduce excess nutrients, making it difficult to maintain clear and algae-free water. Water features should be built to be low maintenance, and part of this is choosing the proper location in your landscape.
Instead, choose a location with proper drainage to ensure the longevity and beauty of your water feature.
What’s The Best Distance To Place A Water Feature From A House?
A good rule of thumb is to place a water feature about 50 feet from your house.
An expert pond contractor, like those at Amen Corner Ponds, can build it closer to your home if necessary, ensuring proper installation to avoid any damage to your house.
Fountains, on the other hand, can be placed at various distances from a house, depending on the basin size and splash distance.
Adhering To Local Building Codes and Regulations
Before installing a water feature or water garden in your landscape, consult your local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance.
This may include guidelines for water usage, electrical installations, and safety measures. Working with a professional pond contractor can help ensure your water feature meets all necessary requirements.
Pick The Perfect Placement With Amen Corner Ponds
By carefully selecting the right location and size for your water feature, you can maximize its benefits and enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.
Amen Corner Ponds specializes in placing and building quality water features, tailoring each project to the unique needs of our clients.
To start planning your dream water feature, fill out our contact form today or give us a call.
