Garden Ponds

Garden ponds add a beauty element to any outdoor setting. Take a look at some of the basics you need to consider if you are planning for a garden pond.
Garden Ponds
A garden is a place that offers one a connection with nature. Gardening is not only just a hobby for many; there are many who try innovative ways to decorate their gardens. From fountains to decorative rock gardens, the concepts used for garden decoration are pretty innovative. Garden ponds are one such element that requires maintenance on a daily basis. (Koi ponds require more maintenance and are also considered to be on the expensive side.) There are many features one can add to make garden ponds look unique and beautiful. If you are planning to add to the beauty of your garden pond, check out some of the elements mentioned below.

Ideas for decoration and maintenance of garden ponds

Water is obviously the main feature about garden ponds. The maintenance levels may vary depending upon the type of climate. You would need to check the pH levels for the water especially when there are climate changes. During summer season, these checks have to be done once or twice a week. The level needs to be maintained between 7.0 and 8.0. During winter season, the water in garden ponds may need to be drained at periodic times to prevent the structure from being damaged. You would need to use specific herbicides to prevent the growth of weeds in the garden pond.

A garden pond will also need interesting flora and fauna. You must be careful about the kind of chemicals used to avoid causing harm to the flora and fauna present in the garden pond. These garden ponds can easily accommodate fish, turtles and even frogs. Amongst fish, goldfish is considered to be most preferable. A pretty goldfish swimming around in the water only adds to the beauty of the garden pond. You can also check with your local store to find varieties that have the best kind of marine life required.

Amongst the various kinds of pond plants, water lilies are amongst the most preferred. The water fern is another kind of floating plant you can include. Marginals are planted in small containers that are kept in the shallow area of the garden pond. Marsh plants can be planted towards the edge of the pond. Besides, you will also need to include oxygenators. These plants are amongst the most important plants, that help to keep the pond clean in a natural way.

To make your garden pond look beautiful, you need to plan the lighting for the pond. A beautifully lit pond only helps to make it look attractive in the night. You can check out with your local store that stocks various types of options for different lighting requirements. With the use of solar technology, things have become easier for people to opt for such lighting, as electricity is not considered to be a very safe option near water. In such cases, floating lights are most preferred as they automatically absorb the rays of the sun. Pond pumps can also be installed to create a water fountain in the pond.

Always plan your garden pond in the sunniest corner of your garden. The pond depth and the size should be planned in advance as per the kind of marine life you are planning to include. A perfect circle is often the most recommended shape for a garden pond. However, an oval will help to accommodate more water.

Once you have planned these basics, you can sit back and enjoy the beauty of your garden pond. Have fun!

By Kashmira Lad
Published: 1/3/2009
 
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