There is a long-standing debate between pond owners about whether or not to have rocks in your pond. On one side you will find the group who argue that having rocks and gravel on the bottom of a pond will harm the fish and cause poor water quality.
The other side says that rocks and gravel are fine and in fact will help house good bacteria as well as creates a more natural Aquascape.
Both can be very firm in what they believe. Below I’ll share Damascus Enterprises’ opinion on both sides.
Rock Bottom Pond
Rocks used in ponds provide the following benefits:
Disadvantages of a rock bottom pond include:
Bare Liner Pond
There are also benefits to keeping the liner rock free in your pond. Without rocks or gravel in your pond tasks like vacuuming or water changes will be a lot easier, eliminating the nooks and crevices for organic materials to settle. No rocks can also mean it’s easier to maintain proper nutrients for more delicate fish and marine life.
Benefits of having a bare liner:
Disadvantages of a bare liner:
In Our Opinion
We have found, when built and maintained correctly, a natural ecosystem pond that includes gravel and rocks is in no way unhealthy for fish. We have many customers who have gravel and rocks in their ponds along with some great looking Koi and other fish, and the fish have been doing very well for many years.
Ponds require maintenance regardless of the type. So, if you have some prize fish that are extremely expensive and mean the world to you, a bare liner pond may be the best option, but you might also be putting more time and/or money into it.
A pond that has gravel and rocks instead of a bare liner, when done correctly, should look like mother nature built it herself. These ponds, ecosystem ponds, rely on the balance between plants, fish, bacteria, and filtration to stay healthy and beautiful, and it works!
Having a beautiful natural looking ecosystem pond in your backyard will create a relaxing paradise where you can unwind and enjoy the pond life.
Choosing between rocks or no rocks in your pond boils down to personal preference, what you will mainly be using your pond for, and the amount of maintenance you are committed to providing.
We will be more than happy to discuss options and help point you in the right direction in designing or renovating your water feature.
Salvador began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2017.
Noé began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in July of 2020.
David began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March of 2019.
Fredi began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March of 2003.
Miguel began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in June 2014.
Nelson began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2019.
Arturo began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in September of 2011.
Antonio began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2001.
Mark began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in September 2010. Mark holds the following certifications; Aquascape Academy Certified, Maryland Certified Pesticide Applicator, and Maryland Certified Fertilizer Applicator.
Shawnee began working with Damascus Enterprises in April 2021.
Mike is a 3rd generation landscape professional and has worked in the field of horticulture for over 20 years. He has an AAS degree in landscape technology from Montgomery College. Mike is a Certified Professional Horticulturist through the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Landscape Industry Certified in softscape, and hardscape installation certified through PLANET. Mike began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in February 2014.
Damascus Enterprises, Inc. was established by Scott in 1998 as strictly a landscape company. Under his leadership and through continued training the business has grown and expanded to now offer a full array of services that include pond and waterfall installation and maintenance, lawn care, landscape design, custom stonework, and outdoor lighting.Scott is an Aquascape Certified Contractor, Vista Certified Design & Installation Specialist and regularly attends industry education and networking events like Pondemonium and Pondeminium. He has previously been recognized as a top young entrepreneur by Maryland’s Governor and the Small Business Association. He currently serves on the board of Montgomery County Farm Bureau and is Co-chair of the entertainment committee of the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair and is involved in the Damascus community through various activities. Scott and his wife Melody live in Damascus with their two children.