Creating Natural Ponds Helps The Environment

A natural pond is a hive of activity. All sorts of animals such frogs, pond skaters, dragonflies, turtles, even the odd fox will pay a visit. These ponds are very important for the conservation of wildlife, animal and plant. As these wild oasis disappear, and they are going at a very fast rate, the plants and animals disappear too. Animals travel to man made watering holes that may be dangerous for them.

These watering holes may be sewage ditches or chemical dumps. The animals drink from these contaminated sources and end up poisoned. There are also 1000's of pond life killed instantly when their pond is filled in to make way for a new road or building because its "uneconomical" to go round the pond or build a bridge over it.

Because of this shortage of natural ponds many pond keepers are now trying to build a style of ponds that is specifically aimed at wildlife. These man made ponds offer a sanctuary for wildlife and can bring their own kind of special interest, appeal and tranquility to any garden.

The Designing And Maintaining

Even a small natural pond will be valuable to wildlife but you should build as large as you can. If possible it should be sited in a spot that receives plenty of sun but also has some shade. It should have a sloping bottom so their are variations in depth and it should be irregular in shape. You should protect the pond liner with a good layer of sand both under it and on the top. You can fill your pond with tap water as it will soon clear naturally. Plants will soon start to grow but remove weeds. The pond should be 70% clear.

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!

Article Source: http://publisherscloninghouse.com

Kipp Flynn has been designing ponds all his life. He was using terms like environmental way before they became popular. Click to learn more about natural ponds or here for general build a pond advice
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