Small Natural Swimming Pool: All You Need To Know

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

If your personal values resonate with respecting and preserving nature, then the natural swimming pool is just what you need. Its appeal lies above all in its free form which is rarely like a traditional rectangular swimming pool. Generally, these ponds are bordered by lush vegetation, thanks to which they blend perfectly into the landscape of the garden. But is it possible to enjoy the joys of swimming in a small garden? Yes, with the small natural swimming pool!

Small natural swimming pool: what are the main types?

There are mainly two types of natural swimming pools: the first, for which the water is treated using equipment that combines ultraviolet or ozone and a conventional sand filter; the second, for which the water is treated in a natural way, via an ecosystem combining flora and fauna. Both types of ecological swimming pools can be lined with vegetation and their shape can be absolutely free.

Before going any further, it is advisable to make one clarification: although the natural swimming pool is often presented as a project that is difficult to achieve on a small lot, it is quite possible. It all depends on the type of small natural pool you want. Ask yourself the right question: swimming pool or landscaped pool? It is difficult to have them both at the same time, because such an installation is made up of three different zones (bathing, purification which is reserved for vegetation and regeneration) and requires space. In the small garden, you will have to make a compromise. So, decide on the type of pool that will best suit your outdoor space.

For the installation of a small natural swimming pool, you must respect the standards and regulations in force in your country, region, city etc. You must refer to the AFNOR NF P90-320 standard to determine the rules and standards to which you will be subject, depending on the type of swimming pool chosen.

If you live in France, before you start, you should consult:

• The Local Urban Plan

• The applicable construction standards

• The municipal regulations which are in force

• The Regional Health Agency (of your geographical area)

• The subdivision or co-ownership regulations (if there are any).

For the design of your small natural swimming pool, it will be necessary to provide a water supply, a basin with 3 zones (or less, according to the desired type) and a pump for the circulation of the water. It will also be necessary to think about the type of filtration and the aquatic plants (if there will be any or not). Plants can also be located on the bank. Also consider oxygenation - if you have the space, set up a waterfall; if you lack space, opt for nozzles instead. Purification is carried out via a settling and emptying column.

The natural pool and the fauna

Having a small natural swimming pool in your garden requires knowing certain essential information. Like any water point, the natural pond will certainly attract animals and insects. Frogs, forest animals, birds or even turtles will feel invited to visit you, especially when the heatwaves drag on. Water can also attract mosquitoes. Fortunately, these will not lay eggs in your natural pond with moving water, because they prefer stagnant water in ponds.

Plants for the natural swimming pool

Regarding the plants to install in its small natural swimming pool, it takes a very thorough reflection. It is obvious that we cannot choose just any plants! Indeed, some plants are better suited to filter water, especially oxygenating and purifying plants. We can, of course, also use decorative plants to refine the aesthetics of the basin.

• The oxygenating plants are located in the lagoon area of the natural swimming pool. They are the ones that provide oxygen and allow you to obtain perfectly clear and limpid skin. Among these plants, we can list the aquatic buttercup, Hippuris or Elodea.

• Purifying or filtering plants must be installed in the purification area. They remove toxic substances from the water. The purification is carried out thanks to the numerous bacteria which are present on the roots of these plants. We can list water hyacinth, aquatic mint or Caltha palustris.

• Decorative plants are not required, but they help to polish the aesthetics of a natural swimming pool, so in most cases, we don't do without them. Among the worthy representatives are: water lilies, papyri or even lotuses.

To achieve the perfect aesthetic of your small natural pool, it is necessary to organize the different aquatic plants. Start by installing the long-stemmed, floating foliage species in the center. These plants will create a shadow towards the bottom of the pond and prevent the development of algae. Install the oxygenating and filtering plants at the bottom of the pond.

Heart-shaped ecological garden pond

A natural swimming pool to enjoy the joys of swimming

Water lilies bring exoticism

Install a miniature waterfall that is as decorative as it is practical