Ponds in the garden
Something that a lot of people overlook when gardening is how beneficial it is to have a pond, even just a small one.
At my allotment, the first year I got it I bought a tree container pot and pond liner, then dug a hole to put it in. After that, I filled it up gradually with a combination of rain water and watering cans.
The tree planter is quite deep and narrow which helps slow down how quickly the water evaporates in hot weather. I got some aquarium plants from the local pet shop to give it a kick start with the eco-system. Some of the plants seem to be thriving!
I also added a floating solar-powered air pump to ensure the water was kept oxygenated. This helps keep algae to a minimum.
Ponds have many benefits. They encourage all kinds of wildlife to visit: birds, hedgehogs, frogs, dragonflies…
These types of wildlife (especially frogs) will eat your typical garden pests such as slugs and snails, meaning your plants will indirectly be better protected.
Some insects will also make a home in the water. I can see water snails in my pond, along with some sort of beetles that swim around under the water. It is interesting just to watch for a few minutes and see what you can spot.
Do you have room where you live to put up a small pond, or do you have a pond already? Even something as small as a washing up bowl works provided there is shade to stop it from evaporating too quickly.
