Adding a pond is one of the best things you can do for wildlife in your garden! Autumn, winter or early spring are good times to make one, as it will have time to settle in before the breeding season for many wildlife species begins. Our quick guide will help you figure out the best way to create a successful wildlife pond in your own garden.
Did you know? It is thought that some amphibians, such as frogs, are now more common in garden ponds than in the countryside.
Before you get out the shovel and start digging, here are some important things to consider…
Wildlife-friendly shape
To give easy access for wildlife, a pond should ideally have a long, shallow slope on at least one side. When water levels fluctuate, this also provides a damp habitat vital for many beetles, bugs and flies. If you’re considering a container pond that isn’t sunk into the ground, you can fix wooden ramps or add piles of bricks or stones on the outside and inside, to help wildlife access it.
Size and Depth
the larger the pond, the more wildlife it will attract. But size isn’t everything! Even a mini pond in a pot will provide a habitat and water source for plenty of small creatures. Ideally, aim for a depth of 20–60cm, which varies across the pond, as this will suit the majority of pond flora and fauna.
Sun or shade?
Shade over part of the pond helps to reduce problems with algae and is tolerated by many pond plants and animals. However, ponds with too much shade are not good for wildlife, so choose a spot where at least part of the pond will be in full sun. This will ensure the water warms up quickly in spring, making it more attractive to spawning frogs and toads.
Okay! Now you’re ready to begin creating your very own wildlife pond.
Step 1: First, mark out your pond on the ground with a rope or hosepipe, and then get digging! Ensure that the sides are level as you dig by placing a plank across the pond’s hole with a spirit level on top. Remember to include some shallow areas and a sloping side, as mentioned above.
Step 2: Remove any sharp stones from the bottom of the hole. Put down a 5 cm-thick layer of sand to line the hole. Sand is preferable because it is sterile and will not harbour any undesirable seeds or microbes, but you can also try old carpet, newspapers or even loft insulation material.
Step 3: Dig a trench around the edge of the pond for the overhanging pond liner to drop into. Place the liner carefully in the hole and tuck the edge into the trench… weigh it down with large rocks. Fill the bottom of the pond with the remaining sand.
Step 4: Fill the pond up! This may take longer than you think. If possible, use collected rainwater to fill your pond, or fill from the tap with a hose. If you do fill your pond with tap water then leave it to stand for a few days before adding it in.
Step 5: Plants can be introduced to your pond around 1-2 weeks after the initial filling with water. Carefully selected native species will support your local wildlife.
Step 6: Watch and see what wildlife visits. Place stones, logs and plants around the edges to create habitats for pond-visiting creatures. If plants are well chosen, and the pond is kept in a relatively balanced ecological state, it shouldn’t need much maintenance at all. However, do keep an eye out for a build-up of dead organic matter and remove where necessary.
Need a hand creating your wildlife pond?
Now is a great time to build a pond, as it will have plenty of time to establish before the breeding season. If you need a helping hand to get the wildlife haven you envision, the Rosewood team can help! Get in touch with us to get booked in, or take a look at our other services to see how we can transform your garden.