Creating the Pond

• 1). Any type or size of watertight container is acceptable but if goldfish are to be used in the pond, the rule of thumb is about 1 gallon of water for each fish and the pond must have at least six hours of sun exposure each day. Site the container wisely, ensuring it is set on a flat, stable surface. Once filled, it will be too heavy to move.
  
  
• 2
  Keep the fish safe from raccoons by giving them hiding spots.raccoon image by masteraz from Fotolia.com
  
  Add the bricks and/or flat rocks so that the fish can hide from marauding animals and birds such as herons, cats and raccoons and to afford them an interesting living space. Fill the pot with water. If time permits, it is wise to allow the water to warm up to ambient temperature so that the plants and fish are not shocked when introduced.
  
  
• 3
  Pumps discourage mosquitoes from laying their eggs.mosquito image by Daniel Wiedemann from Fotolia.com
  
  Affix the plastic tubing to the mouth of the submersible pump and install. Do not turn the pump on yet. The pump will discourage mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water. If goldfish are added to the pond, they will eat mosquitoes but the pump can be added anyway for the tinkling sounds it creates.
  
  
• 4
  Tall plants add texture to the pond.Lake image by Diana Jex from Fotolia.com
  
  Water hyacinth and water lettuce are common pond plants. They do not need to be anchored down. Toss them in and leave them to their own devices. They are greedy feeders and will keep the water fairly clean and clear. These plants multiply quickly, so only one of each type is required. Add a papyrus to the mix as this tall plant adds height and texture to the pond. The plants will also shade and hide the fish.
  
  
• 5
  Do not feed the goldfish.goldfish image by Ahmed Zahir from Fotolia.com
  
  Goldfish are inexpensive to purchase. Buy at least three and allow them to acclimatize to the water by floating the plastic bag they come in for about 15 minutes before releasing them into the pond. Do not feed the goldfish once they are in the pond. They will feed on the algae, insects and on the plant vegetation in the pot.
  
  
• 6). Plug in the pump.