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How often should I feed the fish in my ponds?How often should I feed the fish in my ponds?
  • Feed fish a small amount of food twice a day.
  • They should consume it all within 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Remember, too much fish food and fish waste are contributing factors to algae proliferation.
Can I bring a potted evergreen tree inside to use as a Christmas tree?Can I bring a potted evergreen tree inside to use as a Christmas tree?
  • Yes. Potted evergreen trees are likely in a dormant state at Christmas time and can withstand a short period of time indoors. They can remain indoors for approximately 7 – 10 days before they should be put outside and planted. (Prepare the planting hole in advance before the ground freezes).
  • The evergreens should be sprayed with “Wilt-Pruf” before being brought inside to prevent moisture loss in the leaves.
How do I take care of a poinsettia?How do I take care of a poinsettia?
  • Poinsettias must kept in a warm area and not be exposed to cold air or strong drafts.
  • They require medium to full sun and must be kept well-watered.
  • They can be kept growing indoors until mid-May, at which time they can be planted in the garden.
  • In September, they must be brought inside and placed in a light free environment (i.e. Closet) at night until late November (or until the coloured bracts are well developed).
Do you have a tree inspection service?Do you have a tree inspection service?
  • Yes. Contact the Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre nearest you for details on our Tree Inspection and Garden Consultation services.
Do seniors get a discount?Do seniors get a discount?
  • Guests aged 60 and older receive a 10% discount* off all regular-priced merchandise in the store every day of the year with membership in our Sheridan  Lifestyle Plus program.
  • Guests can join this program by completing an application at your local Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre.
  • *Some restrictions apply.
Do you have a catalogue?Do you have a catalogue?
  • We offer our Sheridan Nurseries Garden Guide which contains extensive information on plants and planting information, garden care and much more.
  • The guide is available for purchase in our garden centres on online
Do you have a planting service?Do you have a planting service?
  • Each of our locations offers a planting service which will plant most of the material sold at our Garden Centres for a fee. If the planting or landscape project is beyond the capability of the Garden Centre, we are able to provide a list of landscape professionals that you can contact.
The plant I purchased last year has died. Do you guarantee it?The plant I purchased last year has died. Do you guarantee it?
  • We know that nobody ever buys a plant to have it die. Mistakes happen. Nature happens. Plants happen. That’s why we offer the best Guarantee, “Growing”.  Click here to view our Never Stop Growing Guarantee.
Why must I use Sheridan Nurseries bottles and buckets for the Free Fertilizer and Bulk Bird Seed Programs?Why must I use Sheridan Nurseries bottles and buckets for the Free Fertilizer and Bulk Bird Seed Programs?
  • By law, the free fertilizer jugs must be properly labeled and nothing other than our fertilizer should go in these jugs. If another product in poured into the jug and re-used later for fertilizer, it may leave a residue which could be harmful to plants.
  • The bird seed buckets we provide must be used as they are pre-measured and comply with the standard regulations for weights and measures.
What is your “Bird Seed” program?What is your “Bird Seed” program?
  • When you place a $3.99 deposit on one of our refillable, reusable bird buckets, you can fill up that bucket with any combination of our two bulk bird seeds for one low price.
  • If you return the bucket, you will receive your deposit of $3.99 back.
  • In addition, we offer a “Frequent User” card that entitles you to a free fill-up after you have purchased ten refills. Ask our staff for your “Frequent Purchase Bird Seed” program card.
What is your “Free Fertilizer” program?What is your “Free Fertilizer” program?
  • When you purchase our reusable 4 litre Plant Food jug, you can re-fill it as often as you wish with our pre-mixed, all-purpose plant food.
  • There is no other obligation to you except that the jug provided must be the only jug used for this purpose.
Do you deliver?Do you deliver?
  • Each Garden Centre has a defined delivery area.
  • Charges may vary for certain products and delivery areas.
  • Contact a Sheridan Nurseries in your area for a quote.
What methods of payment do you accept?What methods of payment do you accept?
  • We accept:
    • Cash
    • Debit
    • VISA
    • MasterCard
    • American Express
    • Sheridan Nurseries gift cards
What are your store hours?What are your store hours?
Are your Plants Neonicotinoid (Neonics) Free?Are your Plants Neonicotinoid (Neonics) Free?
  • We can assure you that all plants grown by Sheridan Nurseries are Neonics free. As well, our main bedding plant supplier assures us that they are Neonics free and the seed they use has not been treated with Neonics.
  • However, we cannot guarantee that ALL plants we sell are Neonics free. At Sheridan Nurseries, we grow many of the plants we sell, however, we source and buy plants from many suppliers across Canada and around the world. These suppliers are in turn buying in seeds, cuttings and finished plants from other growers. We are also at the mercy of what our suppliers tell us regarding their neonic practices. We would be remiss in guaranteeing any specific practices that we do not have direct knowledge of the specific details.
  • We have embarked on a program to ask all of our plant suppliers to confirm in writing if their plants are Neonicotinoid free.
  • As a further commitment to the preservation of the bee population we have developed a line of Sheridan Garden Classic perennials which we have named “Bee-neficial” plants. We are also promoting bee friendly annuals and flowering shrubs.
What kinds of products does Sheridan Nurseries carry?What kinds of products does Sheridan Nurseries carry?
  • Sheridan Nurseries stocks a wide and diverse range of products including indoor and outdoor plants, garden supplies, patio furniture, giftware, Christmas items and much more.
Where is Sheridan Nurseries located?Where is Sheridan Nurseries located?
Something is eating the leaves of my Hosta plants. What can I do?Something is eating the leaves of my Hosta plants. What can I do?
  • You may have snails or slugs feeding on your plants.
  • The best time to check for snails in your garden is at night with a flashlight. Slug and Snail Traps can also be used to determine if you have slugs or snails.
  • Snails and slugs prefer moist, damp areas and tend to avoid direct sunlight.
  • You may also notice the snails have left silver trails around the plants and on top of the soil.
  • We recommend using Safer’s Slug and Snail Bait. This easy-to-use granular bait can be sprinkled around the soil near the affected plants, ideally in the evening. Any uneaten bait will degrade and become part of the soil. You will notice a marked improvement in the soil within a few days.
What do the numbers on lawn fertilizer bags refer to?What do the numbers on lawn fertilizer bags refer to?
  • All lawn fertilizers are made with 3 main ingredients. Nitrogen (N) which promotes healthy green growth; Phosphorus (P) which stimulates root formation promotes and provides energy for continued growth; and Potassium (K) which strengthens the plant and increases its resistance to disease.
  • In the spring, early and late summer, your lawn requires a higher level of Nitrogen (N) to promote strong green growth. In the fall, we recommend a higher level of Potassium (K) to strengthen the lawn and increase disease resistance to prepare it for the winter months ahead.
What are the benefits of applying Dormant Oil Spray and which plants should I spray?What are the benefits of applying Dormant Oil Spray and which plants should I spray?
  • Dormant spraying combines Horticulture Oil and Lime Sulphur to kill overwintering insects (such as scale and mites), insect eggs, and diseases on certain hardy landscape plants.
  • Dormant Oil and Lime Sulphur are best applied to fruit trees, roses, ornamental shrubs like Highbush Cranberry and European Snowball, evergreens such as Cedars, Junipers, Euonymus, and trees like Hawthorn, Crab Apple, and Honey Locust.
  • Do not use Dormant Spray on Beech, Butternut, Colorado Blue Spruce, Hickory, Holly, Sugar Maple, Japanese Maple, or Walnut.
  • This powerful combination spray can only be applied when plants are completely dormant.
  • Speak to the experts at Sheridan Nurseries for specific details on how and when to apply this product.
When is the best time to divide perennials?When is the best time to divide perennials?
  • Dividing perennials depends on the variety, either the spring or the fall.
  • Check with the professionals at your local Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre for specific inquiries.
How do I keep squirrels from digging up my bulbs?How do I keep squirrels from digging up my bulbs?
  • Squirrels and other animals like to dig up the bulbs and eat the heads (except Daffodils and Fritellaria bulbs).
  • Products that can deter these animals are: “Blood Meal”, and “Critter Ridder”.
  • Note that most of these products will wash away after a few rainfalls and need re-application.
What do I use to control Viburnum beetle?What do I use to control Viburnum beetle?
  • These beetles are known for eating the leaves of primarily Viburnum plants (often called “Snowball bushes”) and leaving only the veins of the leaf.
  • It is recommended to use a “contact” insecticide like “Trounce” or “Endall” on a regular basis until there are no further signs of either the beetle or the larval stage.
  • Speak to one of the experts at your local Sheridan Nurseries for specific details.
What can I do to get rid of mushrooms in my garden?What can I do to get rid of mushrooms in my garden?
  • Many homeowners have mushrooms growing in their yards, particularly in the lawn. A mushroom is a fungus that usually grows from rotting or decaying wood in the soil (ie. a root left in the ground from a plant removed).
  • “Moss Out” can be applied to get rid of mushrooms.
  • In addition, changing the conditions of the soil by adding Lime will reduce the acidity of the soil and creates less preferable conditions for mushrooms to grow in.
  • If possible, dig out the trunk or piece of wood. The mushrooms don’t harm any of the plant material and will eventually go away on their own and with enough time.
Will my Mums come back next year?Will my Mums come back next year?
  • Most Mums are Garden Mums and are Annuals
  • They are planted in the garden for Fall colour.
  • There are perennial Mums but they are not considered hardy in southern Ontario
What should I spray my fruit trees with to protect them from insects and/or disease?What should I spray my fruit trees with to protect them from insects and/or disease?
  • “Fruit Tree Spray”, “Trounce” or “Sulphur Spray” can act as a general control against insects and disease on most fruit plants and trees. These can be used throughout the season, however be sure to read the package instructions for information on the number of days to spray prior to harvesting.
  • At the beginning of the season, use the dormant spray kit, (Horticultural oil and Lime Sulphur) before the tree comes out of its dormancy. This controls many diseases or insects that have overwintered on the plant. The oil should not be applied at any other time of the year.
What should I spray my roses with to protect them from insects and/or disease?What should I spray my roses with to protect them from insects and/or disease?
  • Roses can be attacked and hindered by either insects and/or disease.
  • In general, Safer’s 3 in 1 will act as a preventative measure and will help rid the rose of both insects and disease. This should be applied as soon as new shoots appear in the spring.
  • The most common diseases known to roses are “black spot” and “powdery mildew”. Specific products, called “fungicides”, can be used on black spot and other rose related diseases. (“Defender”) It is suggested that alternate products be used to prevent a build-up of resistance.
Do I have to do anything to my house plants before bringing them back indoors in the fall?Do I have to do anything to my house plants before bringing them back indoors in the fall?
  • If house plants are outdoors for the summer months, they may carry unwanted insects indoors with them when brought back in for the fall and winter.
  • To prevent this from happening, spray them with “Trounce” or Safer’s “Insecticidal Soap”. Products like Chemical Free Crawling Insect Killer can be added to the soil.
How much does a bag of bulk cover?How much does a bag of bulk cover?
  • The coverage on a bag of bulk will vary depending on the material and the amount that is spread out. Most bags will have a chart which indicates the area of coverage in relation to the depth applied.
How do I keep my annuals flowering all season long?How do I keep my annuals flowering all season long?
  • To keep your annuals flowering all season long, water them regularly, apply Plant Prod® Smartcote® 14-14-14 in early May, again in July and then fertilize them every other week with Parkwood® Flowering Plant Food 15-30-15.
What type of plants can I use to make a privacy hedge?What type of plants can I use to make a privacy hedge?
  • Many plants can and have been used for hedging. However, the most popular to provide privacy are: cedars, privets, and some types of columnar trees.
How do I winterize my garden?How do I winterize my garden?
  • There are several tasks to complete in the fall for winter preparation. Among them are: fertilize your lawn with Parkwood® Fall Fertilizer, clean up the vegetable garden, hill up and protect roses, wrap evergreens with netting, spray non-deciduous plants/evergreens with Wilt-Pruf and screen sensitive plants with protection (i.e. burlap around plants and/or tree wrap around stems).
  • Click here to read our blog on fall and winter garden prep.
How often do I water my plants?How often do I water my plants?
  • Watering depends on the plant.
  • Generally speaking, water plants only as needed, checking the soil for moisture.
  • Over watering can be dangerous to a plant just the same as under watering can be detrimental.
  • Most outdoor plants should be watered every 2-3 days during the growing season.
  • Watering requirements for indoor plants varies widely depending on the type of plant and the conditions.
  • You may wish to purchase a moisture meter to determine the right amount of soil moisture for each plant.
  • Consult with the plant experts at Sheridan Nurseries for specific varieties.
When is a good time to prune?When is a good time to prune?
  • Pruning depends on the plant and weather conditions.
  • In general, prune flowering shrubs after they bloom, prune trees in the winter, evergreens can be pruned throughout the season and roses should be pruned in the spring or fall.
  • For further details, speak with the experts at any Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre.
How do I maintain my roses throughout the year?How do I maintain my roses throughout the year?
  • Generally, roses should be pruned and fertilized in the spring.
  • During the summer, roses should be deadheaded and fertilized (no later than August).
  • Once fall arrives, your roses should be pruned back to knee height (except climbers) and mounded up with soil to be protected for the winter.
  • Keep in mind that roses should be watered at ground level and not overhead. This will prevent water from sitting on the leaves which promotes disease.
What is considered full sun?What is considered full sun?
  • A plant in full sun is expected to receive a minimum of 4-6 hours of afternoon sun.
What do I need when planting a tree?What do I need when planting a tree?
  • Once you have purchased a tree, be sure to purchase a bottle of Parkwood® Transplanter 5-15-5 and Parkwood® 3 in 1 to supplement the existing soil.
  • You may also require some gravel for drainage, a Parkwood® stake kit in the fall and Parkwood® tree wrap to protect the bark.
What plants require acidic soil and how do I add acidity to the soil?What plants require acidic soil and how do I add acidity to the soil?
  • There are many plants which love acidic soil such as Rhododendrons, Broadleaf Evergreens, Evergreens, Blueberries and Hydrangea to name a few.
  • There are several items that could be added to the soil to increase its acidity: Parkwood® Make it Blue, Peat Moss, Granular Sulphur, or Aluminum Sulphate.
When is the right time of year to be planting?When is the right time of year to be planting?
  • Anytime of the year is fine for planting as long as you can dig into the soil.
  • Ensure that the plant is well watered (especially in summer) and fertilized regularly.
  • Begin with Parkwood® Transplanter 5-15-5 every two weeks for the first month followed by a regular fertilizing program throughout the season.
What do I need to do to re-seed my lawn?What do I need to do to re-seed my lawn?
  • New Lawns: Add Fafard® Viva Lawn Repair to a depth of 5 cm (2″) to fill in any low spots and ensure the lawn surface is flat and even. For quick establishment and healthy root growth, spread Scotts® Turf Builder® with a fertilizer spreader at a rate of 10 kg (22 lb.) per 50 m2 (538 ft2.) Sow the appropriate Parkwood® Lawn Grass mixture at a rate of 500 g (1.1 lb.) evenly over 30 m2 (322 ft2.) Use a lawn rake to lightly mix seed, soil and fertilizer together. Roll once. Water thoroughly with a fine spray at least three times a week until the lawn is established. Do not let the soil dry out and do not mow grass until it reaches a height of 8 cm (3″). After 4 weeks, fertilize with Parkwood® Lawn Food to help the root system expand, thicken turf and darken the green colour of the blades. Do not use any control products for weeds or insects until after the third mowing.
  • Rejuvenated Lawns: Mow grass close to the soil surface. Rake vigorously to remove clippings, debris and accumulated thatch. Use Parkwood® Viva Lawn Repair to fill-in and level any low spots. Repeat all steps listed above beginning with an application of Scotts® Turf Builder®.
Do you deliver sod and soil?Do you deliver sod and soil?
  • Yes. We can arrange for delivery of these products. Prices and arrangements may vary by store, so ensure that you contact your local Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre for specific information.
What type of grass seed is best for my lawn and how do I apply it?What type of grass seed is best for my lawn and how do I apply it?
  • We sell many different grass seed mixtures for many different conditions which include our Parkwood® “Supreme” mixture for sun and Parkwood®“Forest Blend” mixture for shade. Determine what type of light conditions you have and select the appropriate seed. Within each mixture of our Parkwood® brands are three types of seed: Perennial Ryegrass, Fescue and Bluegrass. The Fescue grass is what grows well in shade and is in higher concentration in the shade mixture. The Bluegrass does well in sun and is in higher concentration in the sun mixture.
What should I fertilize my lawn with throughout the year?What should I fertilize my lawn with throughout the year?
  • There are various fertilizers to apply to your lawn depending on the time of year. We have our Parkwood® brands that can be used at all times of year. We recommend our “3 Step” Fertilizer Program which can be purchased as a package and will ensure all your fertilizer needs are met for the year.
My lawn has been dug up! Do I have grubs? What should I be doing about them?My lawn has been dug up! Do I have grubs? What should I be doing about them?
  • If a lawn is dug up, it is usually a sign that there are racoons or skunks looking for food, most likely grubs, in your lawn. You can sometimes deter these animals by using  ‘Critter Ridder’. To check for grubs turn over the turf and look 4″-6″ down.
  • You may find white grubs from 3/4″ up to 1 1/2″ in size at the root level. If this is the case, it is imperative that you act quickly to control the grubs. A comprehensive insect control program should be implemented. We recommend that you visit a Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre that is nearest to you for specific details on your lawn and to determine the degree of damage that has been done.
  • Maintaining a healthy and well-watered lawn is the best defence for the prevention and control of grubs and most other insects. Use Beneficial Nematodes to ensure a strong, healthy lawn.
What are the measurements of a roll of sod?What are the measurements of a roll of sod?
  • A typical roll of sod is 2′ x 4.5′ for 9 sq. ft.
  • Kentucky Bluegrass sod which is ideal for sunny locations. Some of our locations may have other varieties of sod available by custom order. Sod can be delivered depending on the quantity. Please contact the Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre closest to you for additional information on sod and delivery fees.
How do I prepare my water feature garden for the winter months?How do I prepare my water feature garden for the winter months?
  • In early autumn: stop fertilizing plants, install netting over the pond to catch leaves/needles, scoop or vacuum debris from bottom of pond, prune yellow lily leaves, bring tropical marginal plants indoors prior to first frost.
  •  Late autumn: place hardy Water Lilies and tender, hardy Marginals in deep, ice-free water. Leave non-tender hardy Marginals on growing shelves, compost annual floaters such as Water Hyacinth and Lettuce.
  • Remove the pump from the pond and install a pond heater or bubbler to keep a small area of the pond ice-free so toxic gases that would kill fish can escape or bring fish indoors before water temperature drops to 50°F to reduce stress.
How can I prevent raccoons and herons from getting at the fish in my pond?How can I prevent raccoons and herons from getting at the fish in my pond?
  • For raccoons: edge your pond with rocks or flagstones that hang out over the water 6-8″ so they can’t walk into the water and place rocks high enough from water surface that they can’t scoop fish out.
  • For herons: run several strands of fishing line filament in the area of the water garden (perhaps from house to trees or from tree to tree) so they won’t land at all.
How many fish can I put into my pond?How many fish can I put into my pond?
  • A maximum of 1″ of fish per square foot of surface area.
  • Calculate surface area by establishing square footage. i.e. length x width.
  • Allow for growth and reproduction.
  • Too many fish causes stress and makes them more disease prone.
What is causing the algae in my water garden and how do I prevent it from occurring?What is causing the algae in my water garden and how do I prevent it from occurring?
  • Too much sunlight on surface of water: floating aquatic plants and Water Lily foliage need to cover 60-70% of surface.
  • Warm water: not enough plants on the surface to keep water cool and/or the water is too shallow.
  • Cool water: plants haven’t started to grow yet because water isn’t quite warm enough – be patient – wait for water to heat up and plants will do their job of covering the surface and absorbing nutrients that don’t evaporate.
  • Dissolved nutrients in water: all aquatic plants absorb these nutrients instead of being food for algae – increase ratio of plants to water area.
  • Large fish population: fish waste breaks down into nitrate fertilizer and makes algae thrive – reduce number of fish, increase aquatic plants, and/or consider using a biological filter system.
  • Excessive feeding of fish: feed in smaller amounts, less often.
Are there water plants that I can grow near the edge of my pond?Are there water plants that I can grow near the edge of my pond?
  • With flexible PVC liner ponds you can build ledges near the edge and place pots of shallow water and bog plants.
  • These plants include winter hardy Arrowhead, Corkscrew Rush, Yellow Water Iris, Pickerel Rush, and Cattail to name a few.
  • To overwinter, trim back the foliage and drop containers to the deepest part of the pool with Water Lilies.
  • Tropical, non-hardy, shallow water plants include Taro, Canna, Papyrus, Parrot Feather, and Golden Club – they look very exotic.
Are snails beneficial to my water garden?Are snails beneficial to my water garden?
  • Yes, these scavengers feed on algae and excess fish food.
  • Hardy Melantho snails consume large amounts of green scum and are prolific egg layers.
How do I plant Aquatic Plants?How do I plant Aquatic Plants?
  • All aquatics can be planted in pre-mixed, rich, clay loam (Fafard® Aquatic Plant Soil).
  • Do not add compost, peat moss, or manure as lighter materials float and manure discolours water and encourages algae growth.
  • Plastic mesh baskets are available in a variety of sizes.
  • Marginal or bog plants can be planted in 8-10″ containers or larger.
  • Dwarf Water Lilies can be planted in 10-12″ pots while most other lilies require 15-24″ diameter containers.
  • Oxygenating plants can be planted in 8″ containers or shallow trays.
  • After planting, top the container with heavy gravel or riverbed stone to weight the pot and prevent fish from nosing around the soil and clouding the water.
What are Oxygenating Plants? Do I need them?What are Oxygenating Plants? Do I need them?
  • Oxygenators grow under water and control algae.
  • They absorb excess nutrients from the water and liberate oxygen that clears water, prevents growth of algae, and allows fish to breathe.
  • They also provide spawning space for fish and much needed shelter and protection for baby fish.
  • Oxygenating plants include Elodea, Cabomba, Hornwort, Sagittaria, and Vallisneria.
  • Place the pots on the bottom of the pond between lily tubs.
Are Water Lilies difficult to grow? How do I go about choosing one?Are Water Lilies difficult to grow? How do I go about choosing one?
  • Hardy Water Lilies need a minimum of 6 hours sunlight, rich soil, and warm, shallow, unmoving water to be able to last for years.
  • They come in a range of sizes from small with a mature spread of 4-5 sq. ft. to medium spread of 6-10 sq. ft. and large at 10-12 sq. ft.
  • Blooms can be pink, white, yellow, salmon, or red and they sit just above the surface of the water.
  • To overwinter, move containers to the deepest area of the pond (at least 2′-3′) so the roots don’t freeze solid.
  • Tropical Water Lilies can be treated as an annual or brought indoors to a heated greenhouse or sunroom, placed in a tank where water temperature doesn’t fall below 70°F, and returned to the pond when water temperature outside is 70°F (usually early June).
  • Large flowers are held above the water on long stems in shades of blue, purple, red, pink, yellow, and white.
  • Day and night blooming as well as fragrant varieties are available.
  • Tropical Water Lilies are prolific bloomers.
  • Fertilize once a month from April to August with an aquatic fertilizer pellet/pond tab that is inserted into the soil.
What are floating aquatic plants?What are floating aquatic plants?
  • Floaters simply drift on the water surface and move where the breeze takes them.
  • They shade water surfaces like lily pad leaves and absorb dissolved nutrients that contribute to algae proliferation.
  • 60-70% of water’s surface should be covered with foliage to reduce the water temperature and combat algae growth.
  • Water Hyacinth and Water Lettuce are annual plants and particularly attractive with shiny, leathery leaves or soft green, felted foliage upon which water beads.
  • Water Hyacinth roots receive and protect fish eggs while the leaves hold spawn near the surface where their warmest but still protect spawn and baby fish from the sun.
  • After fish are hatched, they continue to be protected among the Water Hyacinth roots.
How do I select a pump for a small water feature such as a spitter?How do I select a pump for a small water feature such as a spitter?
  • Pumps are sold based on how many gallons of water they circulate in an hour (g.p.h.). Calculate how many gallons of water are in your pond using the following formulas:
  • Rectangular or Square: length x width x depth x 7.5 = US gallons. For example:
  • 8′ x 5′ x 3′ x 7.5 = 900 gallons you will need a 900 g.p.h. pump minimum
  • Circular: diameter x diameter x depth x 5.9 = US gallons.
  • Oval with straight sides: length x width x depth x 6.7 = US gallons.
How do I choose which type of water garden to build?How do I choose which type of water garden to build?
  • If you want fish in addition to aquatic plants, you will need a depth of 3-4′ to over-winter both.
  • To achieve a depth of 3-4′, you will need to install flexible PVC (polyvinyl chloride) liner.
  • This choice of material allows you to build any size pond in any shape with sloped sides and shelves for “Marginal” plants.
  • PVC liner is also fish-safe, resistant to extreme temperatures, and easily repaired.
  • Preformed rigid ponds are not fish-friendly as they get too hot in the summer and are not deep enough to overwinter fish or hardy aquatic plants.
  • Preformed ponds are less expensive, easy to install, and transportable should you decide to move.
What are the most important construction tips when installing a liner or preformed pool?What are the most important construction tips when installing a liner or preformed pool?
  • 2-4″ of sand on the bottom so rocks/stones can’t perforate.
  • Place a board and carpenter’s level across the top of the pond to ensure it’s absolutely level.
  • Leave a wide lip of liner at the top on which you can place flagstones and/or landscape rock to finish the edge with a natural look. Trim the excess afterward.
Where is the best location to place a water garden?Where is the best location to place a water garden?
  • Your site should be level but not at the lowest point in the garden, where anything and everything can run into it.
  • To successfully grow Water Lilies and many other aquatics, position your water feature garden to receive 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • Away from trees as roots make digging difficult and leaf drop in fall threatens fish and promotes algae.
  • At a safe distance from all underground utilities.
  • Close to patio/deck for maximum visual and auditory enjoyment.
  • Easy access to a garden house and electricity for pump and/or lighting, if applicable.

If you need more information then it is provided on our site or have specific questions that are not answered in our FAQs, please contact your nearest Sheridan Nurseries Garden Centre. We look forward to hearing from you!