Transforming old tractor tires into a stunning garden fish pond is easier than you think.
This guide walks you through how we repurposed two large front-end tractor tires to create a functional and beautiful water feature that’s perfect for backyard spaces. It’s budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and fish-approved!
Why This Pond Project Works
- Cost-effective: We used mostly recycled and repurposed materials.
- Sustainable: Repurposes tires and uses fish waste as natural fertilizer.
- Customizable: You can scale it up or down based on tire size and space.
- Beginner-Friendly: No fancy tools required—just patience and careful setup.
- Beautiful Result: Adds a peaceful, living element to any garden area.
What You Will Need
- Two tractor front tires (larger is better for depth)
- Thick polythene sheet
- Cardboard, old carpet, or geotextile
- Sand and newspaper
- Flexible drainage coil
- Wire mesh and fencing wire
- Two terracotta pots
- Soil, compost or container mix
- Water and fish-safe aquatic plants
- Tools: spade, hose, bucket, clamps, reciprocating saw or knife, tape measure, PVC pipe (25mm), craft knife, stapler
Step 1: Cut the Sidewalls
Cut out one sidewall from the first tire and both sidewalls from the second tire. Leave about a 3-inch (75mm) lip on each.
Use a reciprocating saw for best results—though a sturdy knife and persistence can work. Water applied to the blade can help reduce friction and heat buildup.
Step 2: Lay the Base Tire
Level your ground carefully before placement—it’s critical. Set the first tire with its full sidewall down onto cardboard or old carpet to prevent punctures from debris.
Fill the center with sand to match the height of the tire’s lower lip. Then layer damp newspaper up the sides to cushion the liner.
Step 3: Add the Second Tire
Stack the second tire on top of the first. Make sure it fits snugly with the lip of the lower tire providing support. Add more newspaper between the tires for extra liner protection. The weight and shape should hold everything in place firmly.
Step 4: Insert the Polythene Liner
Measure and cut your polythene liner. We used a string to trace down one side, across the base, and up the other—then added an extra 12 inches for slack.
Drape the liner inside and push it into the corners. Begin filling the pond with water to about ¾ full to help shape it into place.
Step 5: Clip the Liner with Drainage Pipe
Cut a slit lengthwise in your flexible drainage coil. Clamp one end onto the tire rim, trapping the polythene in between.
Work your way around the edge using PVC pipe to keep the slit open while you press the liner in and clip it securely. Trim off excess liner when you’re done.
Step 6: Add Plants and Fish
Top off the pond and check the level. Place an inverted terracotta pot inside to raise aquatic plants closer to the surface. Add fish, floating plants like Azolla to reduce algae, and edge plants for decor. Over time, fish waste will help fertilize nearby vegetable beds.
Note: Take your time leveling the ground. If it’s uneven, the waterline will show it and there’s no hiding it later.
Other Details Display
- Tires Used: Two front-end tractor tires from a mowing vehicle
- Liner Type: Heavy-duty black polythene sheet
- Clipping Method: Slit flexible drainpipe and clamps
- Inner Fill Base: Sand and layered newspaper
- Edge Finish: Liner clipped with coiled pipe; trimmed flush
- Interior Plant Base: Inverted terracotta pot
- Filtration: None needed due to regular water change and surface plants
- Water Source: Regular hose top-up
- Fish: Bronze goldfish and their offspring
- Timeline: Constructed in December, with visible results by late January
- Algae Control: Azolla floating plant coverage
- Optional Addition: Pumped water system for garden irrigation
Summary
This DIY tractor tire pond is a practical and beautiful way to repurpose materials and add a natural touch to your garden.
With just a few tools and some patience, we built a fully functioning fish pond that became the centerpiece of our yard. Try it out—it’s easier than it looks and completely worth it.
This plan is a contribution by [finton]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here. If you have a plan to share, we welcome your submissions!
