Article
Natural Ponds Can Attract Wildlife To Your Garden
By: Kip Fynn
Wild ponds are full of high activity. All types of species are drawn to them from dragonflies and pond skaters, to frogs, turtles and sometimes even the occasional fox. Natural ponds are some of the most important aspects of the conservation of our wildlife, both animal and plant. Wild ponds are disappearing at a truly alarming rate and as they disappear forever they are taking the animals and plants that depend on them for their survival with them. Animals are having to turn to other man made watering holes but unfortunately, these watering holes are just not safe for the animals.
Because the animals have to come closer to human kind for their water they are stumbling onto chemical dumps or drainage and sewage runoff ditches. Because these animals are getting foreign poisonous substances in their bodies by drinking from these places, the species are slowly diminishing. This does not even count the thousands of species that are buried alive when it is decided it is cheaper to fill a pond in rather than build a bridge over it for the new freeway.
Because these wild ponds are disappearing many pond keepers now consider building a natural pond in their garden. More than ever, this type of pond attracts wildlife in abundance simply because the animals are running out of places to go. These mini oasis give pond keepers hours of enjoyment and fun as well as a feeling of well being.
The Designing And Maintaining
Any sized natural pond is a bonus for the wildlife in your area but try and build yours as big as possible. It wants to be in a sunny area but should have some shade cover as well, perhaps from a tree. When you dig out for your pond make the edges with a gentle slope so there are depth variations. Remember, you are trying to create something that looks natural so make it an irregular shape. Hopefully in a few months it will look like it was there before you! Lay your pond liner on sand and put a layer on the top as well. When its prepared you can fill with tap water and leave to settle. Aquatic plants will probably soon start to appear as mother nature starts her work. Try not to let the plants take over which can happen until your mini eco system finds its balance. Keeping plants down to about 30% of your pond area is a good idea.
Clean the pond sporadically by removing unwanted plants or weeds. Its a good idea to leave these close by the side of the water for a few hours so that any pond life that are hidden among them can make their way back to the water. Never weed during early spring as this is when amphibians and invertebrates breed and they attach their eggs to the weeds and plants.
When you choose plants for your pond, stick with types that are naturally from your area. The wildlife will be much happier with surroundings they know and you will be much happier because the plants are much less likely to die. Resist any temptation when at the garden center to purchase any type of ornament for your pond. Remember your goal, it should look like it has been there long before you arrived. Natural ponds will bring you enjoyment like no other pond. The fact you have been environmentally responsible is just an added bonus!
About the Author: Kipp Flynn has been designing ponds for ever. He was using terms like environmental way before they were fashionable. Click to learn more about natural ponds or here for general build a pond information.