Welcome to another East Coast Fencing blog post! Today, we'll delve into the wonderful world of wildlife ponds and show you how to turn your garden into a haven for nature. We will walk you through the process of creating your very own pond while maintaining that quintessential British charm.

Having a wildlife pond in your garden is an excellent way to attract all sorts of creatures. It provides a sanctuary for native frogs, newts, dragonflies, and various species of birds. Plus, the combination of water, natural foliage, and wildlife creates a calming environment that you can enjoy for years to come.

Why Build a Wildlife Pond?

Aside from adding aesthetic value to your garden, wildlife ponds offer benefits such as:

  • Improved biodiversity
  • Natural pest control
  • An opportunity to observe and learn about wildlife
  • Providing a source of drinking water for birds

Planning Your Wildlife Pond

Before you pick up your tools, consider these factors when planning your pond:

  • Size: The size of your pond can vary depending on your garden space and the species you want to attract. An average pond size can range from 1.5 square meters up to ones covering larger areas.
  • Location: Position your pond in a spot that receives sunlight but also has some shade. The ideal location receives sun during the day and has one side shaded by tall plants or shrubs.
  • Water depth: A variety of water depths will cater to different wildlife. Shallow areas will attract insects, whereas deeper areas will provide heartier living spaces for amphibians and fish.

How to Build a Wildlife Pond

What You'll Need:

  • Marker spray or rope
  • Garden spade
  • Pond liner
  • Underlay for the pond liner (old carpet or thick cloth will work)
  • Pond edging material (cobblestones, rocks, logs, flowers)
  • Native aquatic plants
  • Submerged oxygenating plants

Step by Step Guide:

  1. Outline your pond: Using marker spray or rope, outline the shape of your pond.
  1. Start digging: With your garden spade, excavate the pond. Remove any rocks or roots to prevent damage to the pond liner.
  1. Level the area: Ensure that the edges of your pond area are level to avoid the pond overflowing on one side.
  1. Create different depths: Add some shallow areas (5-15 cm) in addition to deeper zones (50-70 cm). This makes your pond suitable for various forms of wildlife.
  1. Line the pond: Place an underlay on the base, and then add the pond liner. This will protect the liner from sharp or abrasive objects underneath.
  1. Fill the pond: Fill your pond with water. Rainwater is preferable, but tap water is acceptable if collected in a container for a few days before adding it.
  1. Add native aquatic plants and oxygenating plants: Establish the pond's biological equilibrium by incorporating a mix of native aquatic plants and submerged oxygenating plants.
  1. Edge the pond: Conceal the liner’s edges with rocks, logs, pebbles, or flowers to create a natural transition from the pond to your garden.
  1. Settle and observe: Allow the pond to settle for a few weeks or months before introducing any fish.