The Truth About Backyard Ponds: Debunking the 7 Biggest Myths
“I love the idea of having a pond, but I just don’t think we have the time to maintain it,” Sarah said as she flipped through a landscaping magazine at the kitchen table.
“Yeah, and what about mosquitoes? Won’t they be everywhere?” Mark replied, sipping his coffee. “Plus, I read online that herons will just eat all the fish anyway.”
Sarah sighed. “And with our Minnesota winters, wouldn’t the pond just freeze over and kill everything? It sounds like a lot of money for something that might not even last.”
“I don’t know,” Mark said thoughtfully. “I saw some beautiful ponds at the pond and water garden tour last spring. Maybe we’re just believing all the negative stuff without really knowing the facts.”
Does this conversation sound familiar? Pond ownership comes with plenty of misconceptions that often prevent homeowners from fully embracing the beauty and tranquility of a water feature in their own yard. These myths can cause unnecessary concerns and lead to decisions based on misinformation. Let’s address and debunk some of the most prevalent pond myths, providing clarity for both current and prospective pond owners in Minnesota.
Prefer to listen instead? Tune in below as Andrew and Emma discuss this article on the Ponderings Podcast!
Myth 1: Ponds Require Never-ending Maintenance
Reality: While any outdoor feature requires upkeep, a well-designed and installed ecosystem pond can be relatively low-maintenance. By incorporating elements such as proper filtration, beneficial bacteria, automatic dosing and water refill systems, and adequate aquatic plants, the pond can achieve a natural balance that minimizes algae growth and reduces the need for frequent cleaning that can get costly if not maintained properly. A properly established ecosystem pond mimics nature, cycling nutrients efficiently and supporting a self-sustaining habitat.
According to the University of Minnesota Extension, a well-balanced pond with adequate filtration and plant coverage reduces the maintenance workload by limiting excessive debris accumulation and minimizing water quality issues (UMN Extension, 2023). If you’re worried about the maintenance, take our advice to avoid The 5 Most Common DIY Maintenance Mistakes.
Myth 2: Ponds Attract Mosquitoes
Reality: Stagnant water attracts pests and is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. However, a properly constructed pond with moving water—achieved through waterfalls, streams, and aeration—actively discourages mosquito breeding. Additionally, introducing fish like koi, goldfish, and other pond fish helps control mosquito populations, as they feed on larvae (Really, your fish will eat almost ANYTHING!).
Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC states that mosquito larvae cannot develop in water that has continuous movement or is populated with fish (CDC, 2023). Hungry fish and a little water movement goes a long way!
Myth 3: Predators Will Deplete My Fish Population
Reality: While predators such as herons and raccoons are natural concerns, there are effective strategies to protect your fish. Incorporating fish caves and strategic planting provides hiding spots, allowing fish to evade predators. Also, a well-planned pond design includes stepped sides, deep areas out of reach out predators, and submerged shelters like fish caves to keep fish safe.
A study by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology found that herons consume fish up to 10 inches long and often return to the same feeding site repeatedly until depleted (Cornell Lab, 2023). This is why building things right the first time saves grief later on in the life of a pond.
Myth 4: Ponds Can't Survive Minnesota Winters
Reality: With proper design and winterization, ponds can thrive even in our harsh Minnesota winters. Ensuring adequate depth prevents the pond from freezing solid, and installing aerators or de-icers maintains an opening in the ice, allowing for gas exchange, which is critical for fish survival.
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), maintaining oxygen levels during winter is essential for pond fish survival, and an aeration system helps prevent winterkill in backyard ponds (Minnesota DNR, 2023). Simple equipment like an aerator and de-icer, including an appropriate winter fish feeding routine, provides this essential fish survival blueprint. We help hundreds of pond owners around the Twin Cities every year successfully winterize their pond–it’s very possible to have a thriving pond in Minnesota!
Myth 5: Algae Overgrowth Is Inevitable
Reality: Algae blooms often result from nutrient imbalances caused by excessive fish waste, uneaten food, and fertilizer/yard runoff. By maintaining proper filtration, using beneficial bacteria treatments, being careful with your yard treatments, and incorporating aquatic plants that compete with algae for nutrients, you can keep algae under control without excessive chemical treatments.
A report from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) highlights that integrating natural solutions such as floating plants, shade structures, and bacterial treatments significantly reduces algae growth while maintaining water clarity (NALP, 2023). Bacterial treatments like beneficial bacteria is often the unseen hero of an efficient ecosystem pond.
Myth 6: Ponds Are Unsafe for Children and Pets
Reality: Safety is incredibly important in pond design. This is one big reason we stress thoughtful design with every water feature installation project. Features such as gradual slopes, stepped sides, shallow areas, graveled bottoms, and secure edging and rockwork can make ponds safer for families and their pets.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) states that well-designed garden ponds incorporating safety measures, such as strategic placement and depth regulation, significantly lower accident risks (RoSPA, 2023). We hate hearing of families who have lost beloved pets who have fallen into improperly built ponds and couldn’t get back out again. Ponds are for relaxation, not for fear. Built and maintained the right way, ponds are sources of joy.
(If you’re unsure if the pond you’re DIYing is structured right or not, we would be happy to have one of our project managers look over your build plans at no cost to you. Just send your us plans and schedule your appointment using our appointment calendar)
Myth 7: Professional Ponds Are Too Expensive
Reality: While there is an upfront investment, a professionally designed and installed pond adds value to your property and provides years of enjoyment. Moreover, a well-constructed pond reduces long-term maintenance costs and potential issues.
According to a National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey, well-maintained landscape water features can increase property values by up to 12% due to their aesthetic appeal and relaxing ambiance (NAR, 2023). Additionally, it has been found that families with a pond vacation less due to the home being a much more relaxing place to be with the presence of a water feature (which is why they don’t leave as much). When the upfront costs of a pond compared to the ongoing expenses of regular family vacations are considered, those with ponds come out ahead financially and still report more satisfaction in their decision.
Why does this matter?
Understanding the realities of pond ownership can alleviate common concerns and misconceptions. With proper design, natural balance, and strategic planning, a backyard pond can become a low-maintenance, beautiful, and thriving ecosystem.
Whether you’re looking to build a new pond, improve your current setup, or maintain a stress-free, beautiful water feature, proper planning and care ensure long-term success. If you’re considering a pond for your landscape, take the time to research and design it in a way that works with nature, reducing maintenance while maximizing enjoyment.
Have you encountered any of these myths before? What concerns do you have about pond ownership? Share your thoughts below!
How Superior Ponds Can Help
At Superior Ponds, we specialize in maintaining and enhancing backyard water features. Our team provides custom pond solutions tailored to your needs—whether you’re building a new pond, upgrading, or maintaining your ecosystem.
Our expertise ensures that your pond remains balanced and low-maintenance, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of water without unnecessary stress. From installing predator protection solutions like fish caves to fully taking over seasonal maintenance to give you a hands-off and worry-free water feature, we provide the knowledge and services to help your pond thrive year-round!
If you’re looking for expert pond care or simply professional advice to take your DIY game to the next level, contact us today to learn how we can help you create a stress-free and beautifully maintained water feature.