How deep should my pond be?
A healthy garden pond will be around 46cms / 18 inches deep, while a successful koi pond, or pond with larger fish, a depth of at least 90cms / 3 feet is advised.
Why is pond depth important?
A pond that is too shallow is at risk of sudden extreme temperature fluctuations, getting too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. These heat fluctuations could negatively impact fish health and cause rapid algae blooms in the summer.
A healthy and balanced garden pond will have plant shelves around the edge at varying depths, usually between 15 and 30 cms deep, for healthy marginal plant growth. The deepest area of the pond should be at least 40% of the pond area.
Tips on Pond Depth
- 90cm (3ft) or more for large fish.
- 45cm (18in) or more for smaller fish.
- At least 40% of the area at max. depth.
- Deeper ponds have less temperaturefluctuations, helping create a healthy environment.