How to Build a Wildlife Pond in Your Garden

For the Local Wildlife

• Amphibians: Frogs, toads, and newts find both food and refuge in ponds. They lay their eggs in water, making ponds essential for their lifecycle.
• Birds: From robins taking a quick dip to herons hunting for a meal, ponds attract a variety of birds, adding to the garden’s auditory charm.
• Insects: Dragonflies, damselflies, and even butterflies are drawn to ponds, not just for hydration but also for breeding.

Aesthetic and Therapeutic Benefits

• Visual Appeal: The reflective surface of the water, the dance of light on ripples, and the vibrant aquatic plants elevate the garden’s beauty.
• Therapeutic Value: The sound of water has a calming effect, making the pond area a perfect relaxation spot.

Environmental Contributions

• Ecosystem Balance: Ponds support insect populations vital for pollination, ensuring a balanced garden ecosystem.
• Water Conservation: Ponds act as a reservoir, reducing the need for artificial watering of nearby plants.

Safety Considerations

1. Children: If your household or neighbourhood has children, consider a fence or mesh around the pond. It ensures they can enjoy the pond’s beauty without any risks.
2. Pets: Dogs and cats might be intrigued by the pond. Designing the pond with sloping sides ensures that even if pets venture close, they can easily get out if they fall in.
3. Wildlife Safety: Gentle slopes and strategically placed stones can act as exit points for smaller creatures, ensuring they don’t get trapped.

Determining the Size and Shape

• Natural Look: Aim for a shape that mimics natural ponds. Irregular, curved edges blend seamlessly with the garden and look more organic.
• Size Matters: The size of your pond should be in proportion to your garden. While larger ponds can support a greater variety of wildlife, even a small pond can be a biodiversity hotspot.

Depth Variations for Diverse Habitats

• Shallow Margins: These are crucial for amphibians during breeding seasons. Shallow areas warm up quickly, benefiting creatures like frogs during spring.
• Deeper Zones: A deeper section (about 60-80 cm) ensures the pond doesn’t freeze entirely in winter, providing a refuge for overwintering aquatic life.
• Varied Depths: Different depths cater to different species and plant types, enhancing the pond’s biodiversity.

Incorporating Features for Wildlife

• Shelving: Create shelves or ledges beneath the water. These can support marginal plants and offer resting spots for creatures.
• Islands: If space allows, a small island can be a safe haven for birds, away from ground predators.
• Basking Spots: Stones or logs protruding from the water offer basking spots for creatures like turtles or dragonflies.

Water Circulation and Aeration

• Fountains and Waterfalls: While not essential, moving water can deter mosquitoes from laying eggs. The sound of trickling water is also a soothing addition.
• Oxygenating Plants: These plants release oxygen into the water, vital for fish and other aquatic creatures. Examples include hornwort and water crowfoot.

Safety and Accessibility

• Access Points: Ensure there are areas where you can approach the pond for maintenance without damaging surrounding plants.
• Escape Routes: Gentle slopes, mesh ramps, or strategically placed stones can act as exit points for creatures, ensuring they can leave the pond if needed.

Pond Liners

There are several types of pond liners available:

• HDPE: HDPE liners have all the qualities you need and are durable and flexible enough to make a great wildlife garden pond. HDPE liners come in different grades and the prices do vary but they can be bought off the roll in the size you need.

• PVC: PVC is the cheapest option for a pond liner to go for although it is not as strong as rubber. If you are using PVC, you will need to be more careful and we recommend that you use underlay and remove all stones and rocks from the hole before lining to try and prevent tearing.

• Pre-formed Liners: Pre-formed ponds (Amazon link – opens in a new tab) can be found in many places and they are usually made from plastic or fibreglass. Pre-formed ponds are well-known to be long-lasting (my Grandad had his for 30 years) and they are often made for housing ornamental fish.

• Clay: This is our personal favourite type of pond liner, not because it looks better or does a better job but because it is all-natural. Clay can be difficult to install however and is more expensive so if you are not too confident, you may need a professional if you want to go down this route.

• Underlay: Before placing the liner, an underlay (like old carpet or specialised pond underlay) should be laid to protect the liner from sharp objects in the soil.

Tools for Excavation and Shaping

• Spade and Shovel: For digging the pond.
• Trowel: Useful for refining the pond’s edges and creating shelves.
• Spirit Level: To ensure the pond’s edges are level, especially if you plan to have a raised edge or coping.
• Wheelbarrow: For removing excavated soil.

Water Source

• Rainwater: The best choice for filling your pond as it’s free from chemicals.
• Tap Water: If using tap water, let it stand for a few days before introducing aquatic plants and animals, allowing chlorine to evaporate.

Additional Materials

• Stones and Pebbles: For natural edging and creating habitats within the pond.
• Pond Plants: Choose a mix of oxygenators, marginals, and floating plants.
• Pond Netting: Useful to prevent leaves from falling into the pond in autumn and to protect against predators if you plan to have fish.

Safety Equipment

• Gloves: To protect your hands during excavation and when handling the liner.
• Protective Footwear: Especially if the ground is rocky or if you’re handling heavy materials.

Step 1: Plan Your Pond

• Sketch the Design: Draw a rough sketch of your pond’s shape, marking areas for different depths and features.
• Mark the Ground: Using a garden hose or rope, outline the pond’s shape on the ground.

Step 2: Excavate the Area

• Dig the Centre: Start digging from the centre of your marked area, working your way outwards.
• Form Shelves: As you dig, carve out shelves around the edges for marginal plants. These should be about 20-30 cm deep.
• Create a Deep Zone: Ensure there’s a deeper section in the middle, which will be crucial for wildlife during colder months.

Step 3: Prepare the Pond Base

• Remove Sharp Objects: Thoroughly check the excavated area and remove any sharp stones or roots.
• Lay the Underlay: Spread the underlay across the dug-out area to protect the pond liner.

Step 4: Install the Pond Liner

• Position the Liner: Place the liner over the pond, ensuring it covers the entire dug-out area with some overlap on all sides.
• Press and Shape: Gently press the liner into the pond’s shape, ensuring it fits into all corners and shelves.
• Secure the Liner: Use stones or bricks to temporarily hold the liner in place around the edges.

Step 5: Fill the Pond

• Use Rainwater: Ideally, fill your pond with collected rainwater.
• If Using Tap Water: Fill the pond and allow it to stand for several days to let any chlorine evaporate.

Step 6: Create a Natural Edge

• Place Stones and Pebbles: Arrange them around the pond’s edge for a natural look and to secure the liner.
• Trim Excess Liner: Once your edging is in place, cut away any visible excess liner.

Step 7: Introduce Aquatic Plants

• Oxygenating Plants: Essential for maintaining water quality. Examples include hornwort and water crowfoot. Plant these in the submerged shelf zone.
• Marginal Plants: These thrive in shallow water. Examples are marsh marigold, water mint, and iris. Plant these on the marginal shelf.
• Deep Water Plants: Such as water lilies, which provide shade and reduce algae growth. Plant these in the deep water zone.
• Bog Plants: For areas around the pond that retain moisture. Examples include astilbe and lobelia.

Step 8: Allow Wildlife to Arrive

• Wait and Watch: Instead of introducing wildlife, let them discover your pond naturally.
• If Introducing Species: Consider adding creatures like tadpoles or water snails, but avoid fish to maintain a balanced ecosystem.

Step 9: Maintain Your Pond

• Regular Monitoring: Check your pond often for signs of damage or invasive species.
• Seasonal Upkeep: Use a net in the fall to keep leaves out, and in spring, thin out any overgrown plants.

Create a Welcoming Environment

• Varied Depths: Ensure your pond has different depths, providing habitats suitable for various species.
• Plant Diversity: A mix of aquatic plants offers food and shelter to a range of creatures.

Add Features for Shelter and Breeding

• Stones and Logs: Partially submerged rocks and logs can serve as basking spots for amphibians and insects.
• Islands: If your pond is large enough, small islands can offer safe nesting sites for birds and basking spots for turtles.

Ensure Clean Water

• Avoid Chemicals: Refrain from using pesticides or fertilisers near your pond. They can harm aquatic life.
• Natural Filtration: Plants like watercress can help filter and purify the water.

Provide Access Points

• Gentle Slopes: Sloping sides allow creatures like hedgehogs and birds to access the water without the risk of getting trapped.
• Stepping Stones: These can act as perches for birds to drink or bathe.

Encourage Insect Life

• Night Lighting: Installing a soft light source can attract nocturnal insects, which in turn can attract bats and other night predators.
• Native Plants: Planting native flora around your pond can attract local insect species.

Be Patient

• Natural Colonisation: Rather than introducing species, allow wildlife to discover your pond naturally. This ensures a balanced ecosystem.
• Monitor: Keep an eye on the species that visit. Over time, you’ll see an increase in diversity.

Protect the Pond from Predators

• Netting: A loose net over the pond can deter birds like herons from preying on fish or amphibians.
• Plant Cover: Dense planting can offer hiding spots for fish and other creatures.

Spring: Awakening and Growth

• Check Equipment: After winter before the pond comes alive again, inspect pumps, filters, and other equipment for any damage and give the pond a clean if needed.
• Introduce Plants: As temperatures rise, it’s an ideal time to introduce new aquatic plants.
• Monitor Wildlife: Spring is the breeding season for many pond creatures. Look out for frogspawn, tadpoles, and other signs of new life.
• Remove Winter Debris: Clear any fallen leaves or twigs that accumulated over the winter months.

Summer: Peak Activity

• Maintain Water Levels: Summer heat can lead to water evaporation. Regularly top up your pond with rainwater.
• Algae Control: Warm temperatures can spur algae growth. Introduce oxygenating plants or use safe algae treatments if necessary.
• Provide Shade: Use floating plants like water lilies to offer shade, reducing water temperature and protecting aquatic life.
• Watch for Wildlife: Summer sees increased activity from dragonflies, birds, and other creatures. Enjoy the display but ensure they have safe access in and out of the pond.

Autumn: Preparing for Dormancy

• Netting: As leaves begin to fall, place a net over your pond to catch them, preventing decay in the water.
• Prune Plants: Trim back overgrown aquatic plants and remove any that show signs of disease or decay.
• Prepare Fish: If you have fish, reduce feeding as their metabolism slows down in cooler temperatures.
• Clean and Store: Remove, clean, and store any non-essential equipment that won’t be needed during winter.

Winter: Protection and Rest

• Prevent Freezing: Use a floating ball to keep a section of the pond from freezing, ensuring gas exchange for aquatic life. Letting a pond freeze over completely is a common mistake made by many.
• Limit Disturbances: Many pond creatures hibernate or become less active. Avoid any major pond work to prevent disturbances.
• Check Ice: Ensure that any ice forming on the pond is not entirely sealing it off, trapping toxic gases.
• Winter Wildlife: Birds might use the pond for drinking. Keep a small area ice-free for them and other wildlife.

Natural Integration

• Choose Native Plants: Opt for plants native to your region. Not only do they thrive better, but they also blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
• Rocks and Boulders: Incorporate natural stones around the pond’s edge and within, mimicking natural water bodies and providing additional habitats.

Water Features

• Waterfalls: A small waterfall can add movement, sound, and increased oxygen levels to your pond.
• Fountains: These can serve as both a decorative element and a way to keep water circulating, reducing stagnation.

Lighting

• Solar Lights: Position solar-powered lights around the pond’s perimeter for a gentle glow during the evening.
• Underwater Lighting: Submersible LED lights can illuminate the pond from below, highlighting its features and inhabitants.

Paths and Viewing Areas

• Stepping Stones: Create a path of stepping stones around or even across one section of the pond, allowing closer access.
• Benches and Seating: Set up a bench or seating area nearby, offering a place to relax and enjoy the pond’s tranquillity.

Artistic Touches

• Sculptures: Introduce garden sculptures or statues that complement the pond’s theme.
• Decorative Bridges: Especially for larger ponds, a decorative bridge can add an element of charm and functionality.

Plant Diversity

• Floating Plants: Species like water hyacinth or duckweed can add texture and colour to the water’s surface.
• Flowering Aquatics: Plants like water lilies or lotus not only provide essential shade but also introduce vibrant blooms.

Wildlife Enhancements

• Bird Baths: Set up a bird bath or shallow ledge near the pond, attracting birds for a drink or a splash.
• Insect Hotels: Create or purchase structures that provide shelter for beneficial insects, enhancing the pond’s ecosystem.

Seasonal Decor

• Autumn: Consider adding ornamental gourds or pumpkins near the pond’s edge for a festive touch.
• Winter: String up soft fairy lights on surrounding plants or trees for a magical winter glow.