BUILD A POND…CREATE AN ECOSYSTEM

Wetlands are of enormous importance for biodiversity. A great many species depend on wetlands for part or all of their life cycle.

Dead plants break down in water, and this provides an enriched food source for small aquatic insects and other wetland species.

They in turn are predated upon by fish, amphibians, birds and mammals, thus are a vital component of the food web in any ecosystem. A newly created pond or other wetland will be colonised immediately by aquatic insects, and over time this will evolve to serve as a local reservoir of biological diversity.

There are many ways to bring water into your garden, and you don’t have to be limited by space. Even the smallest courtyard gardens can add a water feature that will help to enhance biodiversity.

If space is limited, think about adding a container pond. These can be created from pretty much any water tight container, and a great activity to do with kids. A small trickling water feature will provide a drinking source for invertebrates and pollinators, or a bath for passing birds.

If you have a bit more room in your garden try including a wildlife pond. Look for the lowest point in your garden, it needs to have a good amount of sunlight and not too many over hanging trees. An ideal wildlife pond will have varying levels, the deepest depths around 70-90cm. a planting shelf around the perimeter will allow space for plenty of aquatic plants (aim for native plants). Remember to include escape access for small mammals that may fall in, this could be a beached edge, strategically placed logs or even some driftwood sloped into the water.

If you are blessed with a large garden, why not think about a natural swimming pond. This is a brilliant way to get up close with nature, enhance biodiversity and improve your mental wellbeing.