Koi pond
Koi pond
Want a self-sustaining, ecologically balanced koi pond without pumps, filters or chemicals? With Simons pond check you easily set up your own koi pond. Avoid mistakes and save at least €1000 with the expert Pond Advice Book. Order all essential aquatic plants and supplies easily via our webshop.
Save hundreds of dollars with my pond tips.
Customers give us a 9.2/10
It is quite tricky to put plants in a Koi pond because the Koi tend to destroy them right away. But with a little smart thinking and creativity, it's definitely doable.
Others bought this for their koi pond
Simons Pond Advice Book
- Choose your language of the book
- Complete pond handbook
- 100+ pages from construction to maintenance
Fish Pond Oxygen Plants Package - M - 500 - 1,250 L
- For 500 - 1,250 L
- 7 plants + 1L fish food
- Placement: loose in the water
Fish Pond Oxygen Plants Package - L - 1,500 - 3,000 L
- For 1,500 - 3,000 L
- 36 plants + 5L fish food
- Placement: loose in the water
Filter Plants Package - XL - 8 - 12 m²
- For 8 - 12 m²
- 276 plants
- Placement: -1 to -20 cm
Loose Oxygen Plants Set - M - 500 - 1,000 L
- For 500 - 1,000 L
- 16 plants
- Placement: loose in the water
BACTA CLEAR
- For 1,000 to 20,000 L
- 100% eco: clear water fast
- Safe for humans, plants & animals
aquatic plants Plant Island
- Floating aquatic plant
- Full grown height: 80 cm
- Placement: loose in the water
Floating Plant Island - flowering rush
- Floating aquatic plant
- Full grown height: 80 cm
- Placement: loose in the water
Floating Plant Island - flag iris
- Floating marsh plant
- Full grown height: 80 cm
- Placement: loose in the water
Build your own koi pond in 5 steps
Building a natural koi pond, aimed at creating a balanced environment for koi, is all about cleverly combining natural elements. Unlike traditional koi ponds that often rely on external pumps and filters to keep the water clean, the focus here is on using plants and natural processes. A natural koi pond is usually spacious and deep enough for the koi to comfortably swim in, while also paying attention to incorporating underwater plants, floating plant islands and possibly a separate plant filter.
1. Planning and design
Decide if you want your aquatic plants directly in the koi pond or if you prefer to minimize the risk and place them separately in a plant filter or island. Based on this you are going to determine your pond design. If you opt for a plant filter, make sure this filter covers 1:3 of the pond.
2. Digging the pond
- Dig according to your design. For depth, we recommend -1.5m. This way the Koi-fish will have enough space to move around. In addition, this depth helps keep the water temperature stable during cold winter months.
- Provide solid walls to prevent collapse and groundwater problems.
3. pond liner places
- Choose quality long-lasting foil, such as black EPDM, for the most tranquil and authentic effect. This film is strong and elastic, preventing leaks.
- Finish the edges neatly with cobbles and creeping plants such as creeping jenny for a natural look.
4. furnishings and plant selection
- Place a layer of 8 to 10 cm pond substrate at the bottom of your pond.
- If you plant aquatic plants near the Koi's in the pond, be sure to choose ample and fast-growing plants that have a stiff structure such as, for example, hornwort and crabgrass
5. Maintenance
- Keep the water surface clean and free of leaves and other debris to maintain water clarity.
- If you place ample oxygen plants you will have virtually no maintenance on the koi pond.
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Natural pond with koi carp
Creating a natural Koi pond without the use of pumps and filters can be quite a challenge. Vibrant Koi are known for being able to be rather rough on plants, often damaging them quickly. But with some clever strategies and a little creativity, it is certainly possible to create a healthy, plant-rich Koi pond.
An effective way to protect your plants is to use a plant filter. This is a separate area in the pond where the Koi cannot reach, but where the plants can still do their purifying work. Another possibility is to choose certain types of plants that are more resistant to the curious Koi. Consider oxygen plants such as hornwort, which are naturally fast growing and have a stiff structure, making them less likely to break down.
In addition, consider floating plant islands . These floating islands of plants are a smart solution to keep your plants safe because the Koi cannot reach them. You can also create your own island of plants in the middle of the pond. You can do this by stacking pond crates and putting plants in them. This way you create a safe place for the plants that the Koi cannot reach.
When designing your Koi pond, it is important to consider the needs of both fish and plants. Choose different types of plants that collectively help maintain a healthy pond ecosystem.
By being creative, you can create a beautiful, natural Koi pond that benefits both fish and plants. We take you through our step-by-step plan below on how to do this.
Traditional koi pond vs natural plant koi pond
|
|
|
|---|---|---|
Traditional Koi Pond |
Natural Plants Koi Pond |
|
| ❌ Regularly | ✅ Minimum | |
| ❌ UV Lamp & Pump | ✅ Plant filter | |
| ❌ Higher in Maintenance | ✅ Lower long-term costs | |
| ❌ Clinical | ✅ Natural & Harmonious | |
| ❌ Often needed | ✅ Rarely to never | |
| ❌ Limited | ✅ Promotes | |
| ❌ Higher (Pump & UV) | ✅ Bearing | |
| ❌ Less Natural Living | ✅ Vibrant with Life |
Koi pond planting plan
We guide you through the best ways to build a natural koi pond without relying on pumps, filters or other technical aids. Find out how to create a balanced, healthy environment for your koi using natural purification methods such as plants and floating islands. With our simple step-by-step plan, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance koi pond that is not only pleasing to the eye, but also contributes to local biodiversity.
1. pond substrate
Indeed, a layer pond substrate of 8 to 10 cm in the pond offers a warm welcome to the right pond bacteria, which adhere to the stone grains or lava rock. These bacteria have a water-purifying effect, keeping the water naturally clear. A filter or pump is therefore not necessary, which saves costs. Immediately after construction you can add these good bacteria. In addition, a layer pond substrate on the bottom gives plant roots of pond plants the opportunity to attach themselves well, without rotting. So if you are in doubt about whether or not pond substrate; for a natural filter it is indispensable.
Simon's advice for a pond substrate
Use 40 liters of substrate (2 bags) per m2, leaving a layer of 8-10 cm of substrate on the pond bottom
STEP ONE pond substrate - 40 liters
- 40 L covers 1 m² ↥ 5 cm
- Heavy duty quality for the best filtration
- Extra porous: optimal plant growth
2. Plant filter as a natural filter
A plant filter is a smart choice for any pond, especially if you have koi carp. These fish are known to like to nibble on aquatic plants . With a plant filter, you clean the water naturally and protect your plants so they can grow undisturbed. In your plant filter, you combine the best of both worlds: oxygen plants that purify the water and marsh plants that filter it. This is how you keep the water of your koi pond clear and rich in oxygen, without mechanical aids such as pumps and filters. Do you also want plants in the pond itself? Then choose plenty of, fast-growing oxygen plants that are robust. That way they grow faster than the koi can eat them, and they stay beautiful even if the fish nibble on them.
Simon's advice for a plant filter
Use a minimum of 32 purifying aquatic plants for a pond filter of 1m2 - 2m2
Filter Plants Package - L - 3 - 4 m²
- For 3 - 4 m²
- 84 plants
- Placement: -1 to -20 cm
3. Pond Crates
Do you have a koi pond and would like to add pond plants without creating a plant filter or risking koi destroying the plants? Then try something creative with our pond crates. You can easily click these crates together until the desired height is reached. Make sure the top crate is just slightly above the surface of the water. Fill the top crate with baskets full of marsh and oxygen plants. Because the plants have their roots in the water, but the edge of the crate is just above the surface of the water, the koi cannot reach them. This creates a beautiful, green plant island in your koi pond! Fill all but the top of the crates with an 8-10 centimeter layer of substrate for strength.
Simons advice for pond crates with pond plants
By stacking three pond crates on top of each other, you create an elevation of 60 cm. In the top crate, for example, place three baskets of needleweed and three baskets of irises. This will give you a crate full of water-purifying and oxygen-enriching plants for your koi pond. Fill the bottom crates with a layer of substrate for strength.
4. Floating islands loose
Floating plant islands are a smart addition to increase the filtration capacity of your pond. These islands, planted with marsh plants or oxygen plants, are very effective in purifying the water by filtering waste products and releasing oxygen to the water. Fish cannot reach these plants as they float safely on the water in a pond basket. Moreover, the flowering marsh plants with their colorful flowers provide a cheerful look to the pond. However, remember that oxygen plants are essential for any pond, so make sure you add these plants as well.
Simon's advice for a floating plant island
1 floating island (with 4 plants) to 4 floating islands (with 16 plants) per 1,000 gallons of water.
aquatic plants Plant Island
- Floating aquatic plant
- Full grown height: 80 cm
- Placement: loose in the water
5. Loose oxygen plants
Besides using plants in your plant filter and on floating islands or homemade islands made from pond crates, you can also choose to add additional loose oxygen plants in the pond between koi. If you choose to do this, it is important to add enough fast-growing oxygen plants. That way the plants grow faster than the koi can nibble. Keep in mind that there is a chance the koi could still damage the plants, depending on how much space they have, how many plants there are and how fast they grow. Another option is to add additional oxygen plants only during the winter. During this time the koi go into hibernation, so they will not damage the plants. This way you provide extra oxygen to the water, which is especially important in winter.
Simon's advice for loose oxygen plants
Per 1000 gallons of water: a minimum of 4 baskets (16 plants total) and 24 individual oxygen plants.
Loose Oxygen Plants Set - M - 500 - 1,000 L
- For 500 - 1,000 L
- 16 plants
- Placement: loose in the water
6. Universal fish food: Aquabites
fish food is crucial for the health and growth of your pond fish, because it contains all the necessary nutrients. With our specially formulated fish food , your koi will get all the essential vitamins and minerals they need. By giving your koi a few handfuls of our food several times a day, you reduce the chances of them nibbling on your aquatic plants . Note: If the temperature drops below 10 degrees, stop feeding. The fish will then go almost into hibernation and will not be able to digest the food properly.
Simon's advice for quantity fish food
At a water temperature above 10 degrees, feed koi about 2% of their body weight. Here it is important that you do not give this all at once, but choose to divide it over several feedings per day.
AQUA BITES fish food - 5 liters
- Universal fish food
- For koi to goldfish
- Boost health
7. pond bacteria
To keep the pond clean and clear, use pond bacteria in addition to aquatic plants . Our uniquely formulated formula "Bacta Clear" consists of two types of beneficial pond bacteria developed by pond specialist Simon. Our product helps to break down drab residues that form on the bottom of the pond due to an excess of for example fish food, decaying leaves and dead algae. The recommended dosage is 1 liter of Bacta Clear per 1000 to 20,000 liters of pond water, because our formula is composed 100% natural it is not harmful to humans, plants and animals.
Simon's advice for a pond bacteria
1 bottle of Bacta Clear from 1 to 20 m³ (1,000 to 20,000 liters of water).
BACTA CLEAR
- For 1,000 to 20,000 L
- 100% eco: clear water fast
- Safe for humans, plants & animals
8. Optional: Water lily
If you want to add some extra color to your koi pond without damaging your water lilies by the koi , consider placing them in the plant filter. You can also choose to plant water lilies directly in the pond, but keep in mind that the koi may damage or attack them. White and red water lilies are very popular and can be planted up to 100 cm deep.
Simons advice for water lilies
Minimum of 1 water lily per 500 to 3,000 gallons of water.
White Water Lily - Nymphaea Alba
- Large water lily
- Full-grown height: 10 cm
- Placement: -10 to -100 cm
- Unfortunately, a common mistake: the pond is already filled with water while the pond plants have yet to be placed. This makes it difficult or even impossible to put all the plants in a good, solid place. Simon therefore recommends starting first with a thin layer of pond substrate in an empty pond, then only letting a small layer of water into the pond. You can now step through the pond with boots on to place the aquatic plants in place in the substrate. Then top up with substrate. Is everything set and firm? Only then fill the entire pond with water.
- If you have a somewhat larger pond, it is smart to work from the inside out. So you start in the lowest zone and work outward step-by-step. You end in the shallowest zone (swamp zone).
- When placing the aquatic plants , also pay attention to what depth is best for optimal growth. This is indicated on the packaging of our pond plants. Do you like a lot of plants? Then place the baskets or crates against each other.
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This is what our customers say!
Excellent 
200+ reviews at 
Marjoke Bakker
Oxygenating plants and a bottle of Bacta clear
Purchased: Pond clear package - M
My pond was quite murky, so after a good conversation with Simon, I decided to follow the advice: more oxygen plants and a bottle of bacteria. I ordered the recommended package, but after four days no improvement was visible. Full of disappointment, I contacted customer service. They advised me to be patient and give the process 2-3 weeks. Although I had my doubts about it, I decided to wait anyway. And what turned out? After two weeks, the water started to clear and I even saw frogs that I had never noticed before! Thanks team vdvelde, and apologies for my impatience!
Patrick Müller
Plants are growing much better now and water is crystal clear
Purchased: POND SUBSTRATE pond substrate - 40 liters
Last year I had a landscaper install a plant filter at my swimming pond, recommending lava and some plants from the local garden center. Unfortunately, things went completely wrong; the plants died one by one and I suffered an algae infestation. After contacting customer service, I was advised to replace the lava with pond substrate and order some more plants. Now, several months later, the plants are growing well, and my filter is finally free of algae.
Fenna Schmidt
My little city pond
Purchased: Complete Pond Package - S - Red
I had been dreaming of having a pond in my urban garden for some time, but it always seemed like such a hassle. Online I found a complete package and decided to take the gamble, although I was skeptical about the quality of plants sent through the mail. But to my surprise, everything was delivered neatly and well-packaged. Within no time I had my pond set up. To my delight, after only two months I saw the first water lily bloom, and as icing on the cake I discovered salamanders in my pond. No idea how they got there, but it only adds to the joy. Truly enjoying it!
Susi Werner
A must for anyone with a pond (large or small)
Purchased: Simons Pond Advice Book
This book completely meets my expectations. A great guide with lots of great tips on pond construction, pond plants and design.
Highly recommended purchase on my part.
Great book!
Jules Chabot
Blue lily: beautiful!
Purchased: Hardy Blue Water Lily - Nymphaea Blue Queen
Thank you very much for the generous delivery of the swamp iris "Blue Lis".
The new plants have been planted and I am curious to see if they will bloom this year.
There is good news about the water lily "Blue Queen": It is also blooming here in blue - and how beautiful!
Bart Timmermans
Removing soil sludge without a vacuum cleaner
Purchased: Soil Dirt Pond Removal Package - M
After years of accumulation by fish, quite a bit of silt had accumulated in my pond.
At first I thought about a pond vacuum cleaner, but after contacting customer service I opted for the bottom debris removal package. I was skeptical, especially because the water became murky the first week. But after a month, the silt has reduced considerably. No hassle with a vacuum cleaner, and great results!
I am a fan.
Johanna Brink
water lilies for more biodiversity
As lovers of greenery, we were looking for a sustainable addition to our project. Van der Velde's water lilies were a hit! With DROP & GROW, it was really simple: plant and enjoy. We asked for different varieties and this was no problem either. Delivery was perfect. Within a week we already saw leaves above water, and meanwhile there are several flowers blooming. Both we and our customer are very enthusiastic.
Raphael Blanchard
Oxygen plants save my fish
Purchased: Oxygen Plants Pond Package - L
My fish were gasping for air, so I was looking for an air pump. Then I read that oxygen plants could also solve this problem. I ordered the package that fit my pond, and now my fish are swimming around carefree again. Additional plus: my pond water is much clearer. Fish happy, me happy!
Greta Schultze
Very happy with my small pond
Purchased: Complete Pond Package - XS
This handy kit helped me set up my mini pond quickly. Everything you need is included! The service and advice were top notch, much better than at the garden center where no one really knows anything.
Maria Maes
From maintenance to an organic swimming pond
Purchased: Complete Plant Filter Package - L
I was tired of constantly cleaning the pump, so I decided to convert my pond to an organic swimming pond. With the plant filter package from vdvelde.com, it worked out perfectly! Now I enjoy a beautiful, natural filter and lovely swimming water.
Simon van der Velde: Expert on ponds and an advocate of biodiversity and sustainability
Simon van der Velde is an expert in ponds with more than 35 years of experience in designing dream ponds. He is the founder of "Van der Velde aquatic plants", a company focused on creating biodiverse and natural ponds without the use of pumping systems and filters. Simon's vision goes beyond just creating beautiful ponds; he also wants to contribute to the restoration of biodiversity in the Netherlands, Europe and the rest of the world. In addition to his work as a pond specialist, Simon is a passionate nature lover and is committed to preserving nature and the environment. He inspires people to take a sustainable approach to their gardens and the natural environment. Simon's passion for biodiversity and natural lifestyle makes him an advocate for sustainability and a key player in restoring the natural balance in our world.
Pond advice and tips
Frequently asked questions about Koi ponds
A koi carp, also known as Cyprinus Carpio, is related to the carp. A koi carp is native to Japan. They are often kept in ponds specially designed for the koi such as a koi pond. People who keep koi carp often do so because of the special appearance of the fish. They often have beautiful drawings and bright colors on their bodies. This is what the koi is bred for, the more beautiful the drawing and the color, the pricier the koi carp is. However, this often does not stop many people from purchasing a koi .
Koi Carp can certainly be placed in a pond with pond plants. Many people do not purchase aquatic plants for their koi pond because they think koi's eat these plants, as they are known to do. But with some creative solutions such as a plant filter or a plant island you can add aquatic plants to the pond without the Koi being able to reach them to destroy them.
A koi carp is not a difficult eater, in fact, the fish will eat just about anything. Mainly they eat small insects or small aquatic animals that live in the pond, also algae are on the menu of the koi carp. It is recommended to combine this with our universal fish food, so that your carp remains beautiful and healthy!
Make sure the pond is at least 1.5 meters deep. For size, you should keep about 1,000 liters of water per fish, since Koi carp can grow very large and they need space.
With a koi pond, it is imperative that it not freeze over during the winter. This is bad for oxygen levels in the pond. One option is to cover the pond with a winter cover, but you can also use a ball. If you let this float and move on the surface of the water, it will prevent the water from freezing over. Also make sure the koi carp get enough fish food get before winter begins. During the winter months, fish have a lower metabolism and need less food. Overfeeding can lead to water pollution and health problems in the fish.
It sounds worrisome that your Koi's are having trouble breathing or even dying. This may be due to fluctuations in water values, especially from rainfall and lower temperatures, which can lower oxygen levels in the pond. A lack of oxygen can significantly disrupt pond life.
I recommend using an oxygen plant pack in conjunction with BACTA CLEAR. This package works perfectly for both the warm months, when algae grows rapidly, and the colder periods, when oxygen levels in the water often drop. The Pond Clearer Package increases oxygen levels and helps your Koi's to breathe normally again. It also promotes the overall health of your pond, which also benefits other pond animals.
Keep in mind that Koi's often prone to damaging plants. Fortunately, this package contains fast-growing and sturdy plants, which are less likely to be destroyed. Still, it is smart to screen the plants temporarily to allow them to root and grow properly. Once they are stronger, you can safely return them to the pond among the Koi's.