There is something incredibly calming about watching koi glide through a well-designed pond. For many people, building a koi pond is the start of a lifelong passion. But if you are just beginning, the design phase can feel overwhelming. How deep should your pond be? What kind of filtration do you need? How do you lay it out so your koi stay healthy and thrive through the seasons?
At SJ Koi Carp in Kent, we specialise in everything to do with koi ponds. From expert construction to high-quality equipment to the finest Japanese koi, we are here to help beginners set up ponds that work right the first time.
Start with the Right Depth
The number one mistake we see in beginner ponds is not going deep enough. Koi need space, not just across the surface but also in depth. A proper koi pond should be at least 1.2 metres deep. This depth helps with water temperature stability, protects the fish from predators, and gives them room to swim freely.
In the colder months, koi move toward the bottom of the pond where the water is more stable. If the pond is too shallow, they can become stressed or worse during winter. Likewise, shallow water heats up too quickly in the summer which can reduce oxygen levels. A depth of around 1.5 metres is ideal if you want to keep larger koi or more than a handful of fish.
At SJ Koi Carp, we can build and repair ponds of all sizes. Whether you want a traditional ground-level pond or a raised structure with seating areas and viewing windows, we construct everything to high standards using pond-safe products that are built for purpose.
Filtration is Key to Fish Health
A beautiful pond quickly turns into a murky mess without proper filtration. Good water quality is non-negotiable for koi. They produce waste constantly and if your filter cannot keep up, you risk poor health and water clarity issues.
We always recommend oversized filters for beginners. You cannot over-filter a pond. It is also important to make sure the filter system is easy to clean and maintain. At SJ Koi Carp, we only use filtration systems that are proven to work for koi. We also stock pond-safe treatments for common issues like green water, duckweed, and blanket weed. The chemicals we use are all safe for fish, plants, and any visiting wildlife.
If you are not sure what you need, book an appointment with us. Our specialists will walk you through the right system for your pond size and koi load.
Layout Matters More Than You Think
When planning your pond layout, think beyond just the shape. Consider how water will flow, where the filter will go, and how you will access it for cleaning. You want strong circulation throughout the pond so that debris does not settle and oxygen is evenly distributed.
A bottom drain is a smart investment, especially for deeper ponds. It allows debris to be pulled straight to the filter without sitting at the bottom. Position your return jets to create a circular flow that keeps everything moving.
Stocking Your Pond with Healthy Japanese Koi
Once your pond is ready, it is time for the most exciting part: adding koi. At SJ Koi Carp in Kent, we carry a wide selection of high-quality Japanese koi. Our fish are healthy, vibrant, and come in a range of sizes and varieties. Whether you are just starting or expanding your collection, we can help you select koi that match your pond size and design.
We know how important it is to get personalised advice, so we now offer weekend and evening appointments. You can book a visit through our online booking system. Please make sure to book at least four hours in advance so we can confirm your appointment and give you our full attention.
Why Choose SJ Koi Carp
We are a family-run business based in Kent with deep experience in koi pond design, construction, and maintenance. Our team uses only pond-safe materials and equipment designed specifically for koi ponds. Whether you are building a new pond, upgrading your filtration, or treating water quality issues, we deliver professional results and long-term support.
We are not just here to sell fish or equipment. We are here to help you build something that lasts. A koi pond is more than a water feature. It is a living ecosystem and a daily joy. When built right, it adds value to your home, calms your mind, and connects you with nature.
Ready to start your pond project or add some stunning Japanese koi to your collection? Visit SJ Koi Carp in Kent. Use our online booking system to schedule your appointment, even on weekends or evenings. Just remember to book at least four hours in advance so we can confirm your visit.
Your perfect pond starts here. Let us help you build it right.
