Use tape or chalk to mark out the dimensions of the pool so you have a guideline for when you dig.

The hole for the plants should take up or be equivalent to 30-50% of the main pool area. The plant zone will be separated from the pool by a piece of black liner that you will put in later. This will allow the water to flow from the plant zone into the pool, but keep the plants from floating into the pool area.

Save any large rocks that you come across as you dig, as you can use them later when you seal and fill the pool. You can rent an excavator from your local hardware store at an hourly or daily rate. Digging the holes should take no more than a few hours.

You can bury the water pump in the ground if you do not want it to be seen. Running a water pump in or around water can be dangerous, so exercise caution when you set it up and make sure the wire you use is water safe. When in doubt, consider hiring an electrician to set up the water pump for you.

If you are unsure of how to do this, you can hire a plumber or a contractor to assist you.

Underwater aerators can range in price from $1,000-$1,200 USD.

The synthetic liner is a good way to prevent leaks or cracks in the pool due to rocks or other objects.

If the soil is very sandy, you may need to double the amount of clay per square foot to ensure the pool is properly sealed. Pack the clay down with a tractor or a plate compactor to really seal it into the soil.

Leave a piece of liner hanging between the pool and the plant zone. Cut the piece so it sits 1 to 2 inches (2. 5 to 5. 1 cm) below the top edge of the pool. This piece of liner will act as a barrier between the pool and the plant zone. Use scissors to cut the liner so it just drapes over the sides of the pool.

You can also use stone slabs that have been cut to fit together if you want a smooth, even surface for the sides of the pool. The stone slabs will be heavy to lift so you may need someone to help you lift them in place.

Make sure you use gravel or pea rock that has been washed so there is no dust or particles in the pool.

Make sure there is a clear pathway between the pool and the plant zone, as water will need to flow between these 2 areas.

Do not fill the plant zone until you are ready to add plants to the pool.

Check that the piece of black liner you are using as a barrier sits upward in the water, preventing the plants from drifting into the pool area.