10 Tips for Mastering Your Trade

EDUCATE YOURSELF. Avoid the tendency to "learn as you go." Attend seminars offered by industry associations, trade shows, landscape industry suppliers and others. Be sure to include your employees in these educational opportunities. To augment your abilities, consider developing a cadre of sub-contractors for some of the specialized aspects of ponds, such as a horticulturist who can recommend, install and care for plants.

LOCATION. Consider the view of the pond from all angles – from inside the home or office (including upper-level windows). Also, consider sun and shade. Avoid areas that are near deciduous trees where falling twigs and leaves create extra maintenance. Mark the proposed perimeter of the pond with a rope. Take photos of the proposed location and have the property owner approve the size and location before excavation begins.

SEEK HARMONY. Design the pond to fit the existing site. It should complement the patio, architecture of the structure, existing landscaping and lifestyle of the homeowners. Modern architecture might be best matched with a square or rectangular pond with plain concrete edging. A rustic design might incorporate ferns and other indigenous plants. In addition, streams and waterfalls should look natural.

OFFER ADD-ONS. As you look at the site, consider how hardscapes and other features might enhance the project. For example, if the pond is at the back of a residential yard, perhaps a brick or paver pathway connecting the pond to a patio might add interest. Waterfalls, streams and fountains are also common add-ons. Often, your customers may be unaware that these options are available, so be sure to let them know all of their options.

COMMUNICATE OFTEN. During the initial site visit, ask lots of questions and listen carefully. Ask your customer to call you if they think of something they forgot. When presenting your design, be sure the customer understands all aspects of the project, including the location of plumbing and electrical components, types of plant materials, depth of the pond, etc.

GET IT IN WRITING. Make sure the customer understands the total price, how long the project will take, and the cost of change orders. It's a good idea to have the customer sign off on the blueprints and any sketches or drawings. If writing your own contract, have a lawyer examine it to avoid problems later on.

BE FLEXIBLE. If the amount you quote is more than the customer's budget, consider offering to do the pond one year, a waterfall the second year, and a bog garden the third year. This not only fulfills the customer's vision, it provides you with ongoing work.

OFFER A MAINTENANCE PACKAGE. Once the pond is complete, maintaining it provides an additional opportunity for you. This can include algae abatement, tending to plants, skimming the surface and vacuuming the liner to remove debris, pump maintenance, replacing lights, and winterizing. These services can be offered a la carte or as a package, where you visit on a regular basis. This can provide an excellent source of additional income - and keep you in regular contact with the owner who may have additional landscape needs in the future.

UNDERSTAND LOCAL REGULATIONS. Have a thorough understanding of local building codes. For example, in some areas, swimming pool regulations may apply to ponds deeper than two feet. If so, a fence surrounding the pond may be required. And, as always, be sure to have the locations of existing utility lines marked before beginning any excavation.

CONSIDER ACCESSIBILITY. When placing lighting, pumps and utility lines, be sure that they will be reasonably accessible once the project is complete. In addition, access panels for pump and electrical rooms should not be visible. Consider screening them with plants or berms.

Pond building is a great profit-generating opportunity that requires specialized skills, but once they are mastered, you can begin to add more profit to your bottom line.

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