bring the wild to your garden
Knowledge Pool
beneath the surface
GROWING ZONE
The shallow, warmer edges of the pond are where most of the action happens. We call this the marginal zone, and it is here that we plant nitrogen-hungry plants like rushes, sedges, irises, and purple loosestrife.
As well as being an important growing area, these shallows provide the prime conditions for amphibian spawning; frogs, toads, and even newts lay their eggs here. The surface is also home to whirlygigs, pond skaters, and water boatmen, while dragonflies emerge from the water using the plant stems to climb into the air.
Beyond the water’s edge, we use logs, branches, and natural materials to create a bridge between land and water. Birds use these to perch and bathe, and reptiles may bask on the warm wood in summer. These materials also provide vital cover for amphibians and mammals alike, while offering safe access for hedgehogs, mice, voles, and larger mammals to reach the pond to drink.
MID ZONE
Large rocks provide a vast surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow. These are the "good" bacteria that break down organic matter at the bottom of the pond, and they are absolutely essential to a healthy, self-regulating ecosystem. You may notice an emerald layer of biofilm on these rocks; far from being a problem, this is a clear indicator of a thriving, living pond.
Beyond the biology, these rocks provide the physical nooks and crannies that wildlife needs to flourish. You will find pond snails pottering about here, while frogs and newts use the spaces between the stones as a safe place to hide from predators.
If you spot a cloud of water fleas (Daphnia) take it as a compliment, they are a sure sign that your water is clear, well-oxygenated, and performing exactly as nature intended.
DEEP ZONE
The deeper parts of the pond provide a cool, stable sanctuary. This is the ideal home for water lilies; their leaves stretch to the surface to provide shade, helping to regulate water temperatures during the height of a British summer.
Alongside the lilies, we plant "oxygenating powerhouses." These submerged weeds bed into the depths and are essential for health, creating a perfect hunting ground for deep-dwellers like diving beetles and water scorpions.
At the bottom, a self-sustaining loop takes place. Beneficial bacteria break down ammonia into nitrates, which feed the plants, which in turn release oxygen back into the water. It’s a perfect biological cycle. Remember: a healthy pond should never have a strong odour. If the sediment smells really pungent, it’s simply a sign that the biology is out of balance and needs a little expert attention.
WildWater Pond Calendar
Find when the best time to spot your favourite pond visitors or to carry out pond maintenance
Start thinking about any changes or upgrades now so you don't disturb the pond once spawning begins (which can be as soon as February)
Frogs and toads may start emerging, time to get excited. Have a good root round for any looming algae and blanketweed as this will start to multiply once the temps pick up next month.
Try not to be tempted into tidying around the pond perimeter just yet as some wildlife may still be hunkered down. Hopefully you see some spawn action!
Now is a good time to apply a beneficial bacteria product to boost the ponds biological system into action - we do this on our first maintenance service of the year which run throughout Feb/March.
Any new planting could be considered soon as you start to see most of the planting appear in the pond. We typically start supplying from May but have some bits ready to go now too.
The newts should be courting now, keep your eyes peeled for the male doing his dance!
Spring is in full flow. Insects life will be picking up with the temps. Expect to see birds bathing and the dart of a damselfly, amongst other things. Sit back and enjoy.
Harry's favourite, the dragonfly, will be emerging on your taller plants as it leaves its young nymph stage of the past 2 years to become the flying master. Enjoy the spectacle for the summer.
Swifts and swallows may be picking off midges in the evening hours, another spectacule!
Light planting maintenance could be completed where necessary.
Dead heading leaves on water lilies will reduce the amount of seasonal decay, which will contribute to nutrient fluxes and algae blooms.
Baby amphibs might be on the move so air on caution if mowing, perhaps start a long grass buffer zone to give them extra protection from predators?
The height of summer and hot temps might lower oxygen levels, which can be root cause for poor pond performance. You could consider an aeration pump for a safe introduction of air into the water body.
Expect to see all manner of wildlife visit, from bees to birds, for a drink and a bathe.
The wind down begins. If your pond is close to trees now is the time to plan for netting. We do custom installations with stainless steel suspension cords to ensure an effective job at keeping debris out of the pond.
Wildlife will still be active, most amphibs (new and old) will have migrated to the garden now so be cautious and considerate when tidying.
You may be tempted to cut and tidy the pond, and that is fine. Just stick to soft plants for now and anything that decays into the pond.
Taller and more rigid plants, such as rushes and sedges, can stand tall through the winter and provide extra shelter and structure.
If you netted the pond this could now be removed as the final leaves fall.
Thinking of extra winter habitat now for your pond residents would be greatly appreciated. Log piles with cuttings or soil on top, or anything else you may have to work with!
Have a fish around for any debris that did get into the pond during the autumn season. Doing so now avoids excess decay and sludge accumulation through the winter months as you take your eye off the garden for some much earned rest..