Many images and photographs of water gardens seen in print media are those of Japanese design. If this style and design appeals to you, then here are a few ideas to help you create a Japanese water garden of your own. This type of pond creation works well in both small or large gardens provided the location allows for the creation of a private, quiet, structured environment synonymous with Japanese tradition.
For this project to succeed you need to design and build the largest size pond space allows with enough ground to add a backdrop of bamboo, Acers and dwarf pines. The edging needs to include boulders, rocks, stepping stones, a stone lantern carefully positioned on an island or plinth. In the pond construction phase a flexible rubber pond liner will help to create the clean lines to fit with the structured environment. If you are going to add a stone lantern structure, the pond liner size calculation needs to include the addition of an island or plinth. A protective liner added below the liner will offer extra liner protection and pond longevity – both need to be cut to the same dimension. It is highly advisable to contact a Liner Online manager to discuss liner dimensions as they have a lot of experience with this type of design. In all other standard pond designs, the pond liner size calculator can be used to get the exact liner dimensions. 

In traditional Japanese gardens the lantern symbolises light, fire and guidance. So, although extra planning is involved in adding the lantern, it will have a lasting impression that will be greatly appreciated. A summer house added to the edge of your water garden will add the finishing touches to your project.

Apart from water, the other important ingredient is ‘quiet/tranquility’. This would be a challenge if you have pets (other than Koi fish) and/ or children running about, and therefore this pond may not be appropriate or even practical.

To get started on your water garden project, follow these steps:

• draw your pond design to scale include all fixed structures such as house, garage, boundary walls or fences and trees,
• dig and build lining with a protective liner and then an Epalyn rubber pond liner
• add edging to secure liner in place and as part of the Japanese look with boulders and interspersed with ferns and irises,
• plant up the surrounding garden with Acer, Bamboo, dwarf pine and perhaps a weeping willow as a stunning backdrop.

A Japanese garden needs careful maintenance to keep clean and tidy, but not over manicured.

Draw inspiration from a picture or photograph of Japanese water garden and try to relicate it as closely as possible. For assistance with liner dimensions, contact a Liners Online manager on 01526 399 033, who will help with pond liner dimensions to avoid any wastage (or frustrations).