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Natural Ponds

As a collective, we are all becoming more aware of the natural environment around us. We are also seeking ways to enhance our gardens on a budget, and that's where natural ponds can help. By building your own natural pond, you can not only create a lovely outdoor feature but can also attract wildlife into your garden. Natural ponds are fairly easy to construct and maintain, but you will need a few tips to get you started.

If you have decided to go ahead and build your own natural pond, you will need to consider the following factors:

  • The exact location of the intended pond.
  • The materials required to build and maintain the pond.
  • An overall budget for the job.
  • The kind of aquatic plants you intend to introduce into the pond.

Generally speaking, a natural pond is described as one that flows with the curves of nature and the earth itself i.e. it does not have severely defined edges. Natural ponds are a simple and cost-effective way to utilise flat areas in your garden. Ideally, you will need a fairly level surface on which to construct your pond, however, a slight slope in the ground can work as long as the pools foundation is level.

Natural ponds can be of any size - however, the bigger they are, the more they will be of benefit to wildlife. They should ideally be situated where there is a mixture of light and shade, and plants and pebbles can be used to provide camouflage and shelter. When you are designing your natural pond, think along the lines of the natural ponds that you see in the wild, rather than the artificial pre-built ponds that you can purchase in DIY shops.

The liner used in a natural pond is very important, it should be protected using underlay, then with an additional layer of sand on the top. You can use tap water to fill your pond, however, rain water collected in a butt is ideal. You will find that plants naturally start to fill the pond. It's best for any plants in your pond to be local to your area, this way, the pond will be as 'natural' as possible.

Once you have your natural pond in place and have filled it, you can sit back and wait for nature to take over. You will find over the coming weeks, months and years that an abundance of wildlife will be attracted to your new pond - and you will now be positively contributing to the environment.

  

 

 

 
 



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