Step one:

You will need to decide where you are going to be putting the pond in your backyard. This is important to do before you purchase a pond because where you will be putting it will make a big difference in buying the right type of pond. The reason for this is the size of the location is going to be considered when choosing a pond, but so is the shape and style of the pond because you will want it to tie into your landscaped yard as it currently sits.

Step two:

Now you will need to choose the type of pond that you want to buy for your backyard. You can choose from a Xavan liner that is lightweight and easier to deal with or you can choose the plastic pre-formed liners that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you want to make a pond that is larger than the largest size available, which is 20' by 25', you can join two ponds together with a special adhesive.

Step three:

You will need to dig a hole in your backyard for the pond. You will want to dig the hole at least 18 inches deep at the deepest point of the pond, if you plan to keep fish in your pond you will want to dig down to 24 inches. The reason for this is that digging down to 24 inches will allow you to leave your fish in the pond over winter without worrying about them freezing. You will want to dig different depths so you can use plant shelves and rock edging with your pond.

Step four:

Remove all of the protruding roots and sharp rocks from the surface. Place a layer of sand about 2 inches deep across the entire pond area. You will also need to line the area with carpet padding to protect the liner from being punctured.

Step five:

Spread out the pond liner on your grass and with help slide it over to the pond. Allow the pond liner to drop into the hole; the edges should be extended evenly over the edges of the pond.

Step six:

Place bricks or heavy rocks around the outside of the pond to hold it into place while you are filling it with water. The bricks will hold the liner in place so it doesn't fall into the hole and the water will make the liner conform to the hole that you have dug.

Step seven:

Place rocks or something else along the edges of the pond to hide the liner, which will give the pond a more natural look. Decorate only the outside edge of the pond.

Step eight:

Choose the best filtration system for your outdoor pond. The filtration system is important to install because it will be responsible for keeping your pond clean throughout the year. You will need to do regular maintenance on the filtration system as well. Now is the time to add waterfalls or pumps as well.

Step nine:

Add your plants next. Once you have added plants you need to wait a few days to add fish and then you want to do it slowly to ensure that your pond is capable of housing your fish.