Create an ice bath pond

Creating an inexpensive DIY goldfish pond in the Australian climate: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up a goldfish pond can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it provide a serene space to relax, but it also adds beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space. Whether you want to use a kids pool, ice bath, or any other container, creating the right environment for your fish is crucial to their health and well-being. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential steps to setting up your pond, including choosing the right materials, filtering systems, plants, and maintenance.

Materials you’ll need:

• Ice bath, kids pool or basin
• Filter and water pump
• Decorative stones or pebbles
• Aquatic plants
• Gold fish
• Pond chemicals / water treatments

1. Choosing the right container for your pond

In Australia, it’s common to use inexpensive yet effective containers like kids’ pools or ice baths for small backyard ponds. These containers are readily available and provide ample space for your goldfish while being relatively easy to set up and maintain.

Options:

• Kids Pool: These inflatable or hard plastic pools are a great choice for beginners. They’re spacious, lightweight, and affordable.
• Ice Bath: This was our choice. Typically ice baths are made of durable plastic or nylon, these are perfect for small to medium-sized ponds. The insulation of ice baths can help regulate water temperature in both hot summers and cooler winters, an essential factor in Australia’s diverse climate.

The key is to choose a container that holds at least 150-200 liters of water for each goldfish. Goldfish are relatively large and need enough space to swim freely. Keep in mind that the container should have enough surface area for oxygen exchange to keep the water healthy. The ice bath we chose for out two goldfish holds 300 litres of water. It also has a tap with tubing for easy drainage into the garden.

Tip: When buying a kids’ pool or ice bath, make sure the material is safe for outdoor use and UV-resistant to prevent deterioration.

3. Positioning the pond:

• Flat Surface: Choose a flat, level area in your yard where the pond will sit. Ideally, the ground should be compacted and stable, so there’s no risk of the pond settling or becoming uneven over time.
• Under a Pergola: This is an excellent choice because the pergola offers shade, helping to keep the pond cooler during the warmer months and reducing algae growth. It also provides a cozy and serene atmosphere. We placed our ice bath pond under our pergola where it receives equal amounts of shade and sunlight.
  • Position the pond near the center of the pergola or in a corner for a more private, tranquil spot. If the pergola has openings in the roof, make sure the pond gets some sunlight for plant growth but remains shaded enough to avoid too much direct sun, which can increase algae growth.

Prep the Area:

Set a Foundation: If you don’t have a concrete foundation, place a layer of sand or a few flat stones under the ice bath to stabilize it and create a solid, even base. This will prevent any shifting or tilting over time.

Level the Ground: If needed, level the ground where you plan to place the pond. You might need to dig a shallow trench for the ice bath to sit in if you want it to be flush with the surrounding ground.

4. Adding gravel or pebbles

Adding gravel or pebbles to your pond is essential for creating a natural habitat and maintaining water clarity. Gravel helps anchor plants, provides hiding spaces for fish, and supports beneficial bacteria, which are vital for water quality.

Choosing Gravel and pebbles:

• Size: Opt for small to medium-sized gravel or pebbles. Larger stones can make it difficult for the fish to forage, while tiny gravel can get easily displaced by water flow.
• Cleanliness: Make sure to rinse the gravel thoroughly before adding it to your pond to remove any dirt or dust that might cloud the water.

Where to buy: You can find gravel and pebbles suitable for ponds at most local Australian garden supply stores such as Bunnings warehouse.

4. Installing a canister filter

A canister filter is a crucial piece of equipment for maintaining water quality in your pond. These filters help remove debris, excess food, and waste from the water, keeping it clean and clear. In the Australian climate, where temperatures can fluctuate drastically, it’s even more important to ensure the pond water remains clean to avoid harmful algae blooms or imbalanced water chemistry.

Steps for Installing the Canister Filter:

1. Placement: Position the filter outside the pond (usually under the pergola or nearby) for easy maintenance and access to the power source.
2. Size: Choose a filter rated for the volume of your pond. It’s better to overestimate the size of the filter to ensure adequate filtration. For example, if your pond holds 300L of water, pick a filter designed for 400L or more.
3. Connection: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting hoses from the filter to the pond. Ensure that water flows into the filter and out of it back into the pond.

Where to buy: Check out Australian options like Amazon Australia or local aquarium supply stores for reliable canister filters.

5. Cycling the filter

Before adding your goldfish to the pond, you need to “cycle” the filter. This means allowing the filter to run for several weeks without fish, allowing beneficial bacteria to colonise the filter media. These bacteria help break down harmful toxins (like ammonia and nitrites) into less toxic substances, keeping your fish healthy.

Steps to Cycle the Filter:

1. Start the filter: Turn on the canister filter and let it run without fish for about 4-6 weeks.
2. Monitor water parameters: Use a water test kit to check ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. During cycling, ammonia and nitrites will spike before dropping to safe levels. Nitrates will increase gradually, which can be managed with regular water changes.
3. Introduce Fish Gradually: After your water tests show zero ammonia and nitrites, and safe nitrate levels (around 20-40 ppm), you can safely introduce your goldfish.

Tip: Avoid adding too many fish at once, as it can cause spikes in ammonia and nitrite levels that might be harmful to the fish.

6. Adding live plants

Plants are vital for a healthy pond, as they help absorb excess nutrients, provide oxygen, and offer hiding spots for your goldfish. In the Australian climate, water lillies are a great choice for adding colour and creating a natural aesthetic.

Recommended Plants:

• Water Lillies: These are ideal for providing shade and reducing algae growth. They float on the surface, making them perfect for smaller ponds.
• Marginal Plants: Marginal plants provide height, foliage and a variety of colour to a pond. They are ideal for placing on pond ledges to create a natural-looking garden.
• Oxygenators: These plants, such as elodea and hornwort, grow beneath the water and help keep the water oxygenated.

Planting Tips:

• Ensure plants are planted in aquatic pots or baskets to prevent them from spreading too much.
• Keep the lily pads in areas where they will get plenty of sunlight but will not overcrowd the pond.

Where to buy: Check out Australian suppliers on Amazon or local aquatic plant nurseries for water lilies and other aquatic plants.

7. Creating fish hides

Goldfish can become stressed in ponds without hiding places. Adding rocks, caves, or submerged pots can provide them with areas to hide and feel safe.

Materials for Hides:

• PVC pipes: Cut sections of PVC pipes can be placed underwater for fish to hide in.
• Decorative rocks or ceramic pots: These can be strategically placed in the pond to create natural hiding spots.
• Aquatic logs: Fallen wood or specially designed logs can also provide a cozy hideaway for your goldfish.

8. Pond chemicals and water treatment

Maintaining the right chemical balance in the water is crucial for the health of your fish. In the Australian climate, algae growth can be a concern, especially in warmer months. Here’s what you need:

• Dechlorinator: Always use a dechlorinator when adding tap water to your pond. Chlorine is toxic to fish and must be neutralized.
• pH Adjusters: Depending on your water test results, you might need to adjust the pH. Goldfish thrive in a pH range of 7.0-8.0.
• Algaecides: In the summer months, you may experience algae blooms. Use an algaecide (safely, as per manufacturer instructions) to control this problem.
• Beneficial Bacteria: These are useful for maintaining a healthy biological filter and preventing ammonia build-up.

Where to buy: You can find a great range of pond water treatment products at Bunnings Warehouse or online at Amazon Australia.

9. Maintaining the pond

Once your goldfish pond is set up, regular maintenance is key to ensuring a healthy environment for your fish.

Tasks to Perform:

• Weekly: Clean the filter and check water parameters.
• Monthly: Perform a partial water change (around 10-20% of the pond water) to keep nutrient levels balanced.
• Seasonal: During hot summer months, keep an eye on water temperature and algae growth, while in cooler months, ensure the fish have enough warmth and shelter.

10. Optional pond features

Some additional pond featues and accessories include:

• Water Feature: Such as a fountain will assist with oxygenation and create a captivating visual effect in your garden.
• Pond Lighting: You can place submersible lights in the water or along the edges of the pond to enhance the visual appeal in the evening.
• Furniture: To complete the look, add some outdoor furniture, like a bench or chairs, under the pergola. This will create a relaxing space where you can sit and enjoy the pond.

11. Choosing fish

For an outdoor pond in Australia, consider hardy and adaptable goldfish.

• Common Goldfish: A good starting point for beginners.
• Comet Goldfish: Known for their long, forked tail. These were our choice for our pond.
• Shubunkin: A multi-coloured variety, also relatively easy to care for.
• Koi: A popular choice for larger ponds. Known for their vibrant colours and graceful movements.
• Other fish to consider: Murray River Rainbowfish, Pygmy Perch, Silver Perch, Tandanus Catfish, Australian Smelt, Whitecloud Mountain Minnow.

Important Considerations:

Pond Size: The size of your pond will influence the types and number of fish you can keep. Koi can grow large, so ensure your pond is appropriately sized.
Water Quality: Maintaining good water quality is crucial for the health of any fish.
Local Regulations: Check with your local fisheries department for any restrictions on keeping certain fish species.
Predators: Be aware of potential predators, such as birds or larger fish, and take steps to protect your pond fish if necessary.
Algae Control: Some fish, like catfish, can help control algae growth in your pond.

Creating a goldfish pond can be a highly satisfying project that adds both beauty and relaxation to your outdoor space. By carefully selecting the right container, filter system, plants, and fish hides, and maintaining the pond with the right chemicals and water treatments, your goldfish will thrive in their new environment. Don’t forget to cycle the filter before introducing your fish and keep an eye on the water quality regularly. Happy pond-keeping, and enjoy your tranquil backyard oasis!

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