Building Natural Swimming Pools at Home: A Slightly Wet Adventure

A Pool Unlike Any Other

Forget everything you know about conventional swimming pools - those boring, rectangular concrete structures filled with chemically treated water. A natural swimming pool is an entirely different beast, and I do mean beast; it's an ecosystem in your backyard that consists of plants, microorganisms, and, of course, water. But don't worry, it's still a fantastic place to take a dip and cool off. In fact, its environmentally friendly, chemical-free design might just make you feel extra refreshed after a swim. So if you're ready for a slightly wet adventure, let's dive into the process of building your own natural swimming pool at home.

Step 1: Planning and Design

Before you start digging a giant hole in your backyard, it's essential to consider the design of your natural swimming pool. The first thing to decide is the overall shape and size of the pool - whether you're going for a simple oval or a more complex and naturalistic design (perhaps one that resembles your favorite lake or pond). Remember, this is your chance to create a backyard oasis that reflects your personal taste, so let your imagination run wild!

Next, consider the planting zones. A natural swimming pool typically has two main areas: the swimming zone and the regeneration zone. The swimming zone is where you'll be doing all your splashing and swimming, while the regeneration zone is home to the plants and microorganisms that will help clean and filter the water. These two zones should be roughly equal in size, so plan accordingly.

Step 2: Digging and Construction

Once you've settled on a design, it's time to break ground - literally. Rent an excavator (or, if you're feeling ambitious, grab a shovel) and start digging out your pool. Keep in mind that the swimming zone should be deeper than the regeneration zone; a depth of 4-7 feet is ideal for the former, while the latter can be as shallow as 1-2 feet.

Once you've dug out your pool, it's time to install the liner. This will prevent water from seeping into the surrounding soil and help maintain the pool's structural integrity. A flexible rubber liner is typically used for natural swimming pools, and it should be carefully laid over the entire pool area, with the seams sealed and anchored around the edges.

Now, you'll need to separate the swimming and regeneration zones. A wall or divider made of concrete or stone can be built to create a physical barrier between the two areas. This barrier should be designed with openings that allow water to flow between the zones freely, ensuring proper circulation and filtration.

Step 3: Plumbing and Filtration

A natural swimming pool relies on a combination of plants, microorganisms, and mechanical filtration to keep the water clean and clear. This is where the plumbing comes in. First, install a pump to circulate the water between the swimming and regeneration zones. This will help ensure that the water is continually being filtered and cleaned by the plants and microorganisms in the regeneration zone.

Next, you'll need to set up a mechanical filtration system. This can include skimmers to remove surface debris, as well as a sand or gravel filter to catch any particulates suspended in the water. Finally, consider adding a UV sterilizer, which will help kill any harmful bacteria or algae that might be present.

Step 4: Planting and Landscaping

• With the plumbing and filtration systems in place, it's time to introduce the real stars of the show: the plants. In the regeneration zone, you'll want to plant a mix of submerged, floating, and emergent plants. These plants will not only help filter the water but also provide valuable habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife. Some examples of suitable plants include water lilies, pickerel weed, cattails, and rushes.


• Of course, you shouldn't neglect the area surrounding the pool either. Consider incorporating native plants, rocks, and other landscaping elements to create a naturalistic and inviting environment. This is your opportunity to truly transform your backyard into a private oasis, so don't be afraid to get creative.

Step 5: Maintenance and Enjoyment

Congratulations! You now have a beautiful, natural swimming pool in your backyard. But before you dive in, keep in mind that this living ecosystem will require some ongoing maintenance. Regularly skim debris from the water, trim plants as needed, and clean the mechanical filtration system to keep everything running smoothly.

Also, don't be surprised if your pool attracts some new friends - frogs, dragonflies, and other critters may find their way to your backyard oasis. Embrace your newfound role as a steward of this unique ecosystem and enjoy the countless hours of relaxation, exercise, and entertainment that your natural swimming pool provides.

Article kindly provided by yourhomengarden.org