Zen with Backyard Koi & Goldfish Ponds

Having your own Koi pond is a great way to increase the enjoyment of your backyard.  Waterfalls and fish can add a Zen like tranquility to your backyard. The graceful movement of fish reminds us to slow down, and enjoy the stillness.  This can often relieve stress, and bring your mind into a relaxed state.  Koi fish can live for a long time, as the oldest carp ever was 226 years old.  The general lifespan however is about 30 years.

Koi fish are also known as carp.  It Asian cultures they are sign of love and friendships.  They look similar to goldfish but are considerably larger in size.  Koi ponds can be kept no matter what part of the country you live in.  It is important however to build your pond deeper if you live in colder areas. 

 If you wish to create a pond, it is best to do some research before you rent a bobcat and start tearing up your lawn.  Depending on the accessibility of your backyard you may not be able to bring in large equipment for your backyard.  This is true especially in neighborhoods where the houses are butted up one next to another.

First make sure there is enough room in your backyard for a pond.   Having a mini-pond may suffice as well, if you do not have room for a full sized pond.  If you are not a professional landscaper, you can also purchase a koi pond kit.

Purchasing a koi pond kit will be easier than starting from scratch.  There are also specialty magazines which are devoted to fish ponds.  These magazines can be found in places such as Barnes & Noble or Borders.  If you don’t mind waiting a couple days, you can purchase books online here:

You can buy koi online, if your local fish stores do not sell them.  You may also want to stock your pond with goldfish as well.  Unless you have a waterfall (or agitator), still water will attract mosquitoes.  Smaller fish such as goldfish will eat the larvae of mosquitoes before they have a chance to hatch.