The main purpose of an informal pond is to try to get it to blend naturally with its surroundings. This type of pond will be the focal point of your yard, so be sure you follow this guide so that it doesn’t end up looking like a hole in the ground with no structure.

The plants and features that surround it, not necessarily the pond itself will measure the success of your informal pond. It is very important to be sure that you have a blend of the surroundings. Study the area you’re considering very closely. Don't just start digging a hole in the ground. Take a piece of paper and pencil and sketch the shape and where you want everything to be. You don't have to be an artist, just use line drawings and use different images for plants, trees and walkways. You’re the only one that needs to know what you mean.

Any rock features that you use should appear to grow out of the landscape and not just at the water's edge. Just placing a huge bolder anywhere will not give you the look that will be natural.

If you have it, a gentle sloping area behind the pond will greatly add to its character. You can even use the excavated soil from the pond area to raise different area of your surroundings for a natural look. Be sure that you choose native rock that is actually in your area, especially if you have some existing on your property.

You might consider placing a bog in and around the area next to the pond. These bog type plants can be colorful and really add to the mix. Just be sure to decide ahead of time and construct it the same time as you do the main pond.

Kidney and dumbbell shapes look best, but you can choose any design you wish.

Remember to always use natural materials. Placing a cement path around the pond is like adding a VW hood ornament to a BMW. It's just not done! Even though Flagstone has a more formal walkway appearance, it can be used, as an alternative if you just can't find local stone in which to make paths. Consider using river rock at the water edge to construct a rock beach. These rocks are small and come in a variety of colors. They should blend well in almost any surrounding area.

One of the most important keys to success will be the plants you eventually use in and around the water garden. Don't plant exterior plantings in formal rows or in any particular order. Mother Nature doesn't do it and either should you. You may want to take your drawing to a Garden Pond shop or landscaping company to get some professional insight. Grow a large variety of native plants, bushes and trees so that it maintains a natural appearance.

If your pond will be small, be sure to use aquatic plants that fit that area. Using 10 waterlilies in an 8 x 10 pond will not look natural. Huge marginal like cattail is also not a good selection for small ponds. A majestic waterlily will look great in the middle of a small pond, but lost if it has to compete with 100 other plants.

Color is another factor in a great looking informal pond setting. This means in and out of the pond. Contrasting colors will add brilliance to your pond and impress anyone that sees it. Marsh marigolds and aquatic Iris are a good combination and easily obtained.

Space is also important to the overall look in open water. Water Hawthorne, Water Lilies and Water Fringe look very inviting when surrounded by open water. Notice we said open water. Don't overdo it!

Floating plants is another matter altogether. If used they should be confined to one area of the pond and not aloud to take it over. These type plants propagate quickly and in no time will over run the entire pond surface.

Take care in constructing the informal garden that you have allowed for marginal plant shelves around the pond. Generally these are shelves dug out during construction that usually is 9" deep and 9" across.

If you take you time, plan ahead and do your homework; you will have a lifetime of pure enjoyment and not a lifetime of headaches. PLAN PLAN PLAN. Did we get our point across?