As Phoenix homeowners make their lists of lofty New Year’s resolutions—eating clean, saving money, finally using that gym membership—we often forget that we’re not the only ones ringing in the new year with big ambitions. Yes, even your backyard koi pond has hopes, dreams, and a few things it’s determined to improve… if only the koi would cooperate.
At The Pond Gnome, we know ponds aren’t just features of your yard—they’re living, breathing little worlds with personality. So in the spirit of fresh starts, let’s dive (gently—no cannonballs) into the Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions your backyard koi pond might be making.
10. Reduce Stress (Mostly Caused by Wildlife)
Every pond’s year begins with the same mantra: this is the year I stay calm.
And yet, there’s always that squirrel—let’s call him Brad—leaning dangerously over the edge like he’s attempting a pH-testing stunt.
Dear Brad: My surface is for reflection, not rodent rescue missions.

9. Save More Water
Evaporation season shows no mercy.
While humans are stockpiling savings, ponds are trying to keep every precious drop of H₂O like it’s retirement planning. Add a splash of monsoon season, and suddenly it feels like someone else is managing the budget.

8. Help the Koi Break Their Bad Habits
Every pond has that one koi who thinks it’s hilarious to splash half the shoreline.
The pond would very much like to remind the fish:
“I am literally holding you right now. Maybe stop throwing me out of myself?”

7. Eat Healthier (Goodbye Sticks, Hello Mosquito Larvae)
If ponds had nutrition labels, they’d be 90% wholesome… and 10% mystery leaf.
This year, the pond pledges to snack smarter: fewer twigs, more tasty mosquito larvae. When it comes to natural maintenance, that’s the aquatic version of going organic.

6. Learn a New Skill, Like Perfectly Circular Ripples
Sure, making ripples is easy. But making them artistic? That’s a hobby.
Your pond has big ambitions—synchronized ripple choreography, perhaps, or a ripple that subtly shames the ducks when they land off-center.

5. Strengthen Relationships with Garden Neighbors
The pond would love for the stone lantern to finally say hello.
It’s also hoping to build bridges with the boulder by the waterfall, who has been giving off “strong, silent type” energy for years now.

4. Travel More—If Only in Spirit
While the pond itself is pretty attached to its location (it has roots… sort of), it wouldn’t mind feeling more worldly.
A little wind across the surface? A gentle waterfall? Some new aquatic plants? Instant staycation vibes.

3. Improve Relationships with Humans, Pets & Wildlife
The pond wants everyone to get along—humans, koi, dragonflies, even that frog who insists on singing at 2 a.m.
If the koi could stop forming a flash mob every time someone walks by, that would be lovely. You’re scaring the delivery drivers.

2. Learn Something New (Because Growth Isn’t Just for Plants)
This year, the pond is committed to self-improvement:
Better water clarity, stronger ecosystem balance, more confidence in its biofilter game.
Maybe even learning to recognize the footsteps of the person who feeds the fish. (They know. Trust us.)

1. Stop Being Treated Like a Leaf Airport
The pond’s most popular resolution is also its greatest challenge:
“No more letting leaves crash-land on me like I’m running an autumn airport.”
But hey—when you’re the most appealing landing strip in the yard, it’s tough.

Want to Help Your Pond Stick to Its Resolutions?
At The Pond Gnome, we believe every pond deserves a fresh start. From improving water balance to upgrading filtration to keeping Brad the Squirrel from tightrope-walking your pond edge, we’re here to help your outdoor oasis stay beautiful, healthy, and full of personality all year long.
If your pond has its own resolutions—or if you’d like help making them a reality—reach out to us anytime.
Happy New Year from The Pond Gnome… and from your pond, who is absolutely taking this list very seriously.
Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Arizona (AZ) & Surrounding Areas
For more information on Phoenix Ponds: https://pondgnome.com/pond-construction-phoenix-az/
