How to Design a Fishpond

Introduce Fish

Fish are sensitive to changes in temperature, so acclimatize them to their new pond. Float the bag in which you bought them on the water and open the top to allow more air inside. After about 20 minutes, gently release the fish into the pond. Don't worry if fish hide for a few days, they will soon appear when they have adjusted to their new home.

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Fish-Friendly Planting

The best fish for small ponds are common goldfish and shubunkins, while koi require larger pools and special filters. All fish feed on pond plants, so choose tough types that will regenerate easily when munched.

Spring-flowering marsh marigold (Image 1); sweet flag 'Argenteostriatus' (Image 2); flowering rush(Image 3); Japanese iris (Image 4)