Using a Pond to Water My Garden?

Hardiness Zone: 5b
Lauren from Missouri

A: Lauren,

You don't mention whether or not your pond is manmade, or occurs on your property naturally. I'll assume because your garden is large, it's natural. I would rig up a gravity flow siphoning system using PVC pipe or garden hose. The pipes should be fitted with valves to control water flow. If your garden is even with, or at an uphill slope from your pond, you can use a submersible pump. Keep in mind that pumps can be expensive, and if they fail, some types may release oil and coolants into the water. There are several great options on the market, including solar-powered units and pumps with magnetic-drives that avoid the use of coolants. You'll need to do a little research to determine the size pipe and pumps you'll need to get the flow rate you want. A local farm supply store or large garden center should be able to help you with that.

Water from smaller, backyard ponds can also be used in the garden. Just be careful if you treat your pond with chemicals, to not use it to water or fertilize your garden edibles.

Ellen