One way people set their yards apart from others is with the installation of yard ponds to enhance their homes landscaping.
The ponds can vary in size from small three-foot diameter to in-ground water ponds dug into the yard and big enough to hold a small boat.
However, on average yard ponds holding about 1,000 gallons of water make nice accents to a home's appearance.
It also seems to be a natural progression that after a person installs yard ponds they start looking for fish to occupy the space.
The type of fish chosen will be the personal preference of the homeowner, but some things should be investigated before dumping a mixture of breeds into the water.
Aggressive fish, such as bass and pike, tend to eat the smaller competition and any type fish that will fit in their mouths is a potential meal.
However, whichever type of fish chosen for the pond, if the water temperature drops to below 55 degrees the fish's metabolism slows and they should not be fed.
Planning to install a molded pond, or yard ponds with another type of artificial lining, it will also have to have a water filtering system to keep the water clean.
Those who have had aquariums know that fish are not the cleanest creatures and filters keep the water cleaner and the pumps also helps aerate the water to keep oxygen moving for survival of the fish.
Decorating Does Not Stop At Pond And Fish When installing yard ponds fish are not the only decoration that should be added.
Live aquatic plants can not only provide food for the fish but can also add decoration to the pond.
Especially around the outer edges, a collection of live plants can add color to the area and, if the pond is large enough, consideration may be given to add a fountain.
They not only add to the appearance but aid in water circulation as well.
Contrary to popular belief, yard ponds are not holes in the ground in which to throw money as they add a distinctive flair to landscaping and can attract other wildlife to that area of the yard.
Although caution must be taken in areas where small children are prominent as they are also attracted to the water as well as the fish, and yard ponds can be a dangerous place for unsupervised young children.
When installing yard ponds considering adding walk lights to accent the additional decorations placed around the pond, especially if there is a walk around or past the pond.
Adding this type of accent draws attention to the area and highlights the landscaping effort.