How a Pond Brings the Great Outdoors to Your Backyard in Middleton, WI

Nothing brings more joy and tranquility to a backyard than a pond, especially in suburban neighborhoods that may otherwise lack individual character. If you want a more natural feel when you step outside, here’s how a pond brings the great outdoors to your backyard in Middleton, WI.

Related: Surround Your Pond in Monona, WI With the Following Features

Wildlife

Water attracts wildlife. Enjoy the delightful music of songbirds and watch the antics of wildlife as they play and feed around the water, and know that you are providing a valuable resource for animals that would otherwise be displaced by human habitation. 

For the best wildlife watching, consider placing your pond where it’s in clear view of your favorite seating area, but not so close that animals are afraid to approach. 

Plant natives in and around your pond. Local wildlife will appreciate a familiar habitat; and natives will also thrive in the Wisconsin climate, unlike fussy exotics.

A Soothing Retreat

Scientists have proven what we’ve always known: we feel better in nature. Nature is calming and it has an amazing way of pulling us out of our worries. Sitting beside a pond, especially if your pond has a waterfall, helps mute the sounds of the outside world. Sometimes it can even feel like the water is washing your cares away! A waterfall isn’t mandatory of course, but it adds a visual and auditory dimension to the pond; and it also helps keep the water aerated and fresh.

A small paver patio and pergola beside the pond will give you a comfortable place to relax with a good book, nap, or even work on your laptop.

A Play Area for Young and Old

Water, kids and sunshine mix perfectly and there’s no reason to stop the fun when you’re an adult. To make the pond more kid-friendly add pond features such as waterfalls, big boulders to sit on, and a pebble “beach.” A shade structure like a pergola or gazebo near the pond will offer relief from the blazing sun.

Fire and Water

Create a magical ambience day or night by placing a fire pit near the pond. The light of the fire will reflect beautifully on the pond’s surfaceGas- or propane-fueled fire pits are cleaner and safer, but only the crackle of real wood gives you the authentic campfire experience. A fire pit can be placed on any non-flammable surface, such as a pebble beach or paver patio. All you need are some comfortable chairs, some marshmallows, and you’re set for a wonderful evening by the water! Landscape light fixtures tucked into the vegetation surrounding the pond will add to the ambience.

Fish

For even more enjoyment, consider adding fish to your pond. Transforming a pond into a koi pond just requires a filtration and aeration system (which can be achieved with an attractive waterfall), and enough floating aquatic plants and/or stone ledges for the fish to hide under. What better way to spend a lazy afternoon watching the colorful fish swimming and feeding in your pond?

Even though there are new-construction restrictions in place right now due to COVID-19, you can take this time to plan the perfect backyard pond. Planning the style (rustic, modern, etc.), size, and amenities will ensure that your pond meets all of you must-haves for a perfect backyard getaway!

Related: Spruce Up Your Pond With Natural Stone in McFarland, WI