Summers in the desert can be not, dry and miserable. For some it’s just a matter of coming home to relax in their own private desert oasis. These lucky people have a pond in their backyard complete with a relaxing waterfall. The stress of the day melts away with the calming sounds of water cascading over a fish-filled pond.

You are probably thinking how this can be. With temperatures up to 120 degrees, won’t the fish die? Will the water evaporate? Does it take a lot of work to keep the pond clean?

The truth of the matter is that having your own pond or water garden as I like to call it is extremely low maintenance. When built correctly using a proper system to keep the water clean, the pond is virtually maintenance free. Fish have no problem surviving in a desert climate.

Before I get into the different types of systems, let me warn you about a common problem with people who build ponds. They are not pond contractors, so they buy pool pumps and pond building equipment. When they’re done, the pond can look good, then they’re gone and the nightmare begins, endless maintenance.

There are many types of systems available to keep your pond clean and free of algae. Some systems use pond filters, others use UV lights. Both methods are considered external systems and require a lot of maintenance. you will need to clean the filters frequently and with the lights you will need to change the bulbs which cost you money. The worst part is that these devices will be out of the pond. The method I prefer is to use a natural ecosystem. With an ecosystem everything is contained in the pond and waterfall. You have no unsightly equipment to look at.

When it comes to building the pond, there are different materials that can be used. People who like to build a pond like a swimming pool use concrete to line the pond. For a more natural looking pond, you can use a liner and stones to create a pond like you would see in a natural setting. There are many benefits to both your fish and you when it comes to keeping your pond clean.

Another misconception people hear when looking to build a koi pond is that it needs to be deep. This is not true. I have built hundreds of ponds in the Phoenix AZ area where it is very hot. None of these ponds are more than 18″ deep. I have never seen a single fish die from heat in the last 6 years.

Don’t be afraid to get a pond in the desert. It will be the most pleasant and relaxing part of your entire house. The best part is that if done right, it will be virtually maintenance free.