Step 2. Layout the size and shape.
Using a  garden hose, layout the size and shape of your water garden. Look at the water garden from different angles from inside and outside your house. It is a lot easier to move the water garden before you dig it then afterwards. Also make sure that the water garden will get enough sunlight. Try to plan a simple shape and avoid narrow sections were the water will not circulate. Remember to start small and expand your garden with experience. An 11 x 16 pond is a good starting size that will provide a natural balance and you will have less algae problems. It is recommended that the pond depth be at least 18 - 24 inches deep. Ponds less than 18 inches will have problems with algae and you will not be able to overwinter fish or waterlilies in the pond.