Things to consider when installing a garden pond

Ponds can be a beautiful addition to any garden, but it is important to understand some of the problems with creating and maintaining a successful garden pond.

1:  Before you dig, make sure you choose a day when the soil is damp - as this will make digging the soil a lot easier.

2:  Birds could be nesting in trees and scrub or on the ground so avoid working in the nesting season (spring) or check thoroughly that there are no nests before starting work.

3:  Trees can add shelter to a pond and also look very nice, but they will also cause you to spend time removing fallen leaves – so keep away from trees if you want to avoid the workload.

4:  Create a balanced ego system, as your pond will need a variety of plants, rocks, stones to create a good environment for fish – as they can get “stressed” and not eat. You also need a non-toxic pond liner and one that won’t degrade in sunlight.

5:  Rain water (with dry leaves, fertilizers etc) will find its way into the pond if it is on low-lying ground.

6:  If you want to see wildlife such as frogs, then it is best not to put any fish into your pond, as they will devour all the native invertebrates and tadpoles.

7:  However, make sure you install a deep pond if your pond plans to contain fish, as they will sadly freeze in shallow water. It also needs to have an area of the pond at least 3 feet deep, but 4 - 5 feet may be better. Koi fish require well over 6 feet depth.

8:  Please research the fish that you will be placing together – as you don’t want them to eat each other.

9:  Exotic plants require more attention, so it is best to stick with plants which traditionally grow in your country. However, if you do not have fish – then you can save money, as aquatic plants will start to appear in your pond after a time anyway.

10: You will need biological and UV filters in your pond along with mechanical ones, as this will keep the water clean and free of debris. Install a blanket weed controller unit to prevent unsightly blanket weed forming in your pond.

If you follow these simple 10 steps then you will have a beautiful stress-free pond that will be the envy of you neighbours!

How to stock and maintain a garden pond.

Planting for Garden Ponds

Fish Tips

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