How to Build a Frog Pond in Your Backyard

By Anita B. Stone

Frogs are an important part of the ecosystem and help keep insect populations under control. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating an amphibian habitat in your own backyard.

WHAT YOU NEED

Shovel
Pond liner or landscaping liner
Tape measure
Level
Medium-sized rocks and several bags of gravel (amount will depend on the size of your frog pond)
Pocketknife
Spray paint or string
Water plants (plants that thrive in aquatic environments)

BEFORE YOU DIG

Don’t forget to call 811 before starting any project that involves digging — even in your own yard. The automated service helps ensure you won’t disturb any dangerous wires or important utility lines.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

STEP 1. CHOOSE A LOCATION. Look for a low area that’s partially shaded with vegetation but not too close to trees.

STEP 2. DECIDE ON SIZE AND SHAPE. Mark an outline of your pond using spray paint or string. Start digging the pond to about 2 feet deep. The pond can be shallower at its edges. Slope the sides so frogs can easily exit the water. Make an access ramp with rocks and gravel.

STEP 3. REMOVE STONES OR ROOTS that could puncture the lining.

STEP 4. PLACE THE LINER OVER THE AREA, making sure it will reach 15 inches beyond the edge of the pond on all sides, and push into place. Remove as many folds as possible.

STEP 5. FILL THE POND WITH WATER. Cut off any excess liner, leaving about 10-12 inches all around the outside. This edge can be buried under soil or covered with stones. Your pond will need water plants to provide a place for frog eggs and shelter for tadpoles. You can add a piece of driftwood and small lily pads at a later time.

WAIT FOR THE FROGS TO SHOW UP!