Ways to Use Prefabricated Pond Molds

Above-Ground Water Garden

• A prefabricated pond mold can be used in-ground, but it can also be used free standing on a patio or in your yard, if its plastic gauge is sufficient. Fill the mold with water and test to see how easy it is to bend it out of shape when filled. If it seems rigid enough, it is probably suitable. Surround the mold with plants or landscaping stones to give it a more natural appearance. You can also plant philodendrons or other aquatic hanging plants in the water, and allow them to drape over the sides to hide the mold.

Raised Bed Garden

• Prefabricated pond molds make great raised bed gardens in areas with poor soil or contaminated fill. Drill a few drainage holes in the bottom of the pond and fill the bottom of the mold with a thin layer of pond stones. Bury the mold, leaving approximately 5 inches above the ground. Place landscaping stones or timbers around the perimeter of the mold to prevent damaging the lip. Fill the pond mold with top soil, humus and mulch, and plant as desired.

Patio Planter

• Just as a prefabricated pond mold can be used to house an above-ground patio water garden, it can also be used as a large patio planter. Opt for a mold with a flat bottom to prevent tipping, and drill holes in the bottom of the mold to allow for drainage. Cover the bottom of the pond with a thin layer of stones to keep the soil from plugging up the drilled holes, and fill or partially fill the mold with high-quality soil. This is a great way to grow vegetables on a deck or in a rooftop garden.

Rain Catch

• Prefabricated pond molds make great rain catches for conserving water. Aim a gutter downspout from your house into the pond, and use the collected water for watering your garden. A pump can make this easier or just dip a watering can into the rain catch. Mosquito dunks can be purchased at local hardware supply stores. They inhibit mosquito larvae's growth and control the populations that would otherwise flock to the standing water.