When planning a backyard water garden, you have many decisions to make. One of those decisions is whether to have a sunken pond or a raised pond. This article will examine the pros and cons of each type of pond for your backyard water garden.
A raised pond is best suited to a more formal backyard water garden design. A sunken pond is better for an informal or natural backyard water garden. Of course, there are always exceptions but these are general rules of thumb.
The Pros and Cons of a Raised Pond in the Backyard Water Garden
One pro for the raised pond in a backyard water garden is the fact that it can be a great focal point in a formal garden or on a paved area such as a patio. Low walls surrounding the raised pond can be used as seating to observe the pond in the backyard water garden.
A raised pond in the backyard water garden is best suited to a climate where the temperatures in the winter months stay above freezing. If you live in a climate where the winters are harsh, a raised pond may not be right for you.
Another plus for a raised pond in a backyard water garden is the need for less excavation. Where a sunken pond needs to be dug, a raised pond can be built on the existing ground.
Maintenance of a raised pond in the backyard water garden is much easier than a sunken pond. This is especially true for disabled or elderly gardeners who find it hard to do a lot of bending over.
One drawback to the raised pond in the backyard water garden is that it takes longer to build than a sunken pond. A raised pond can also be more expensive to build than a sunken pond.
A raised pond in the backyard water garden can also provide more safety than a sunken pond. Surrounding walls will prevent children and pets from falling into the pond.
The Pros and Cons of a Sunken Pond in the Backyard Water Garden
One pro for the sunken pond in a backyard water garden is it’s resemblance to a pond found in nature. This natural feel is suitable for an informal backyard water garden design and will also attract more wildlife than a raised pond.
The sunken pond in a backyard water garden will be successful in colder climates. Because the water is below the ground level, it is less likely to freeze when the temperatures drop. If you live in a climate where the winters are very cold, a sunken pond may be a better choice for your backyard water garden than a raised pond.
Also, the water temperature remains much more constant in a sunken pond as opposed to a raised pond. This will ensure a healthier environment for fish and plant life.
A sunken pond in the backyard water garden is less expensive and easier to build than a raised pond. This is because you don’t have to consider existing landscaping when building a sunken pond. Your goal with this type of pond for the backyard water garden should be a natural feel instead of hard, geometric lines.
Although it may be easier, a raised pond in the backyard water garden can be more hazardous. Children and pets are more likely to fall into the sunken pond. This is something to consider when deciding between a raised pond and a sunken pond for your backyard water garden.
A sunken pond in the backyard water garden will also require excavation. The soil will then need to be removed. Keep this in mind when deciding between a raised pond and a sunken pond for your backyard water garden.
