Pond waterfalls | All you need to know about a pond waterfall
A waterfall in pond, it is an unnecessary but decorative addition that appeals to many pond owners and enthusiasts because of the liveliness it creates in the pond. Waterfalls can be placed in any type of pond placed, if you want to know more about waterfalls in the pond, read on quickly!
All about waterfalls
- Why a waterfall in the pond?
- How do I make a waterfall in the pond?
- What pumping system do I need for a waterfall?
- How many gallons of water in the pond for a waterfall?
Why a waterfall in the pond?
A waterfall is not necessary for a healthy and clear pond, as various types of aquatic plants with their own useful function, along with pond substrate and pond bacteria already provide a balanced ecosystem. However, a waterfall is a very nice addition to the look of your pond. This is because a waterfall brings movement to the pond which makes it even more relaxing to look at. Creating liveliness in the pond is for many a reason to place a waterfall in the pond, but of course this can be done in several ways:
Pond substrate and pond bacteria
Pond Fish
These aquatic animals bring life to the pond as they swim busily around and depending on the species of fish, like to live in schools. Pond fish also reproduce so they literally bring "life to the pond. So this can be a nice addition when you decorate your pond together with fish-friendly aquatic plants into a real eye-catcher and fish food. fish food in the water is fun for young and old.
Pond Animals
Animals in and around the pond and garden are something many people find a nice addition. After all, it helps restore biodiversity, which many people want to contribute to, including us. Pond animals are attracted to the pond by providing sufficient shelter and nesting space through sufficient and high pond plants in and around the pond bank.
Hardy pond plants from our own nursery
Insects
With insects you may think, hey bah I don't want that, but did you know that insects are actually very useful? They help pollinate plants and exterminate pests such as mosquitoes. Moreover, insects like: butterflies, bees and dragonflies are great fun to watch. Now, do you want to attract these insects? Then choose aquatic plants with large, colorful flowers, such as marsh plants often have.
Hardy marsh plants from our own nursery
How do I make a waterfall in the pond?
Not a fan of ready-made? It can be a really fun garden job to build your own waterfall. For example, go for a more natural waterfall, which you build with a stream course and natural stones, and which runs gradually down to the pond. If you want to do it all right, make sure the stream course has small pools that continue to hold water when the pond waterfall is off. At the bottom, which you make from EPDM foil you distribute a not-too-subtle amount of pond substrate, and for an even nicer effect you also place pond plants here and there. Here are a few more helpful tips:
Definitely do
- Choose a waterfall or fountain that fits the size of your pond; both one that is too large and one that is too small can turn out wrong for aquatic life.
- Make a well-developed plan for the construction in advance, including thinking about how you want to conceal the hose and pump (for example, with boulders and lots of riparian plants).
- In addition to your water ornament, be sure to always place plenty of pond plants to keep it in biological balance.
Definitely don't
- When buying an underwater pump, go for a variety that does not pump the water around too fast or too hard, this benefits the life in your pond of both plants and animals.
- Do not place aquatic plants too close to the pump; this may hinder growth.
- Do not use any existing filter pump as a pump to circulate the water; it may be overloaded and you want to be able to turn off your water ornament as well.
What pumping system do I need for a waterfall?
To build a waterfall in your pond, you need an appropriate pond pump. The type of pump you choose depends on several factors, such as the size of your pond and the desired height and flow rate of the waterfall. In general, there are three types of pumps suitable for waterfalls:
- Solide-handling pumps: These pumps are designed to pass larger particles and are suitable for waterfalls with a stream course, where there is a chance of coarse debris in the water.
- Submersible pumps: These pumps are completely submerged in the water and are suitable for a mini pond with waterfall and a small pond with waterfall. They are often quieter and easier to conceal than external pumps.
- External pumps: These pumps are located outside the pond and are suitable for larger waterfalls with higher water flow. They tend to be more powerful and energy efficient than submersible pumps, but can produce more noise and are harder to hide. So this pump is not ideal if you have a sleek pond with a waterfall.
How many gallons of water in the pond for a waterfall?
Determine the width of your waterfall in inches and multiply by 70 (for a quiet waterfall) to 100 gallons per hour. When selecting a waterfall pump, it is crucial to pay attention to the remaining capacity of the pump after various resistances are considered.
Frequently asked questions about waterfall pond
Natural waterfall: These waterfalls mimic the look of a natural waterfall, using real or imitation stones and rocks. They can range from small babbling streams to larger multi-level waterfalls.
Waterfalls can attract animals to the pond because they see your pond with waterfall as a watering hole. In doing so, you contribute to increasing biodiversity in your garden.

Simon van der Velde
Pond specialist and aquatic plant grower since 1986
Simon's vision is to let nature do its work in your pond. No need to buy all kinds of measuring equipment and water improvers. If the fish are swimming nicely and the plants are growing well, then the water in the pond is of good quality. With a good planting plan and the right approach, you can save a lot of money and maintenance, and ensure a clear, biologically balanced pond that becomes more beautiful every year.