Rocks can make or break the look of a pond. Using rocks too big for a small pond can make it look weird, using small rocks on a large pond will do the same. But a pond without rocks and gravel would not look good, will not function as well and will lack a long lasting foundation.
Let’s take a look at how rocks really work in a pond!
Benefits of Rock in Your Oklahoma City Metro Area Pond
Rock provides a solid pond foundation.
Different sizes of rock work together to give a pond its form. Medium to large boulders provide an attractive perimeter and define the shelves and ledges around and inside the feature. Gravel at the bottom of a pond protects the pond liner from foreign objects and the sun’s UV rays. Rock holds the pond liner in place, keeps the ground from shifting, and offers firm footing. Ever tried walking on a bare pond liner? It’s like a Slip ’n Slide!
Small rocks and gravel also help lock bigger stones into place. They eliminate gaps that could cause the stones to shift over time. We suggest you use gravel that’s smooth and round. Avoid rocks and gravel with jagged, pointy edges – they can damage your liner.
Let’s face it: the problem with rock is that it’s heavy and difficult to move. That’s why many DIYers are tempted to skimp or even skip some kinds of rock. But each size of rock performs an important structural task. And all of them are necessary to construct a pond foundation that will stand the test of time.
Rock is part of a balanced Oklahoma pond ecosystem
Beneficial bacteria live throughout the rocks and gravel of a ecosystem pond. They help keep the water clear by consuming excess nutrients and breaking down organic debris. Basically, these bacteria eat up the fish waste and stuff like leaves and grass clippings that fall to the bottom of the pond.
Without the gravel at the bottom of a pond, bacteria would have nowhere to live … and without constant maintenance, the gunk would just build up. A pond with a stable ecosystem consisting of biological filtration, mechanical filtration, rocks, fish, and plants will sustain a healthy balance and clear water.
Rock makes a pond look good
At Continental Ponds, we believe that ponds can be a vital part of the landscape and look like they’ve been there forever. That’s where the aesthetic element of rock comes in. While some pond enthusiasts may disagree about using stone and gravel to cover a pond liner, we think it looks more natural than a black liner that has the logo printed on it.
The right boulders and edge rocks can create a habitat that looks like the pond developed naturally, especially in an area like a waterfall. Look at photos from national parks to get an idea of how rock formations naturally occur around bodies of water. You’ll see how larger “frame rocks” are usually located each side of a waterfall, while the water cuts through the middle on a lower stone. We use the same principle when building our features. Keep in mind that boulders, while tough to transport, are crucial to a well-designed water feature.
Putting it all together
There are so many ways to create a beautiful and well-functioning ecosystem pond or waterfall. No matter how much rock & it involves, Continental Ponds can help. Connect with us online or give us a call at 405-834-2291 We can help you make your dream water feature a reality.
