If possible a net should be stretched across the top of the pool to stop any leaves from being blown into the water. If this is not possible remove as many leaves as you can from the pond before the 'icy weather' arrives, as a build-up of poisonous gases will occur under the ice. To prevent this build-up a small area of the pool should be kept free from ice to enable the gases to escape. Contact your local garden centre to find out how to prevent this. Do not break the ice.


Aquatic Conservation

In this day and age it is of the utmost importance that nature conservation plays an important part in everyone's life. Think how wonderful and educational it would be for you and your children to watch in your own garden, the development of a tadpole, the amazing flight of a beautiful vivid blue dragonfly; or the attraction of water for so many varieties of birds.

By adding a pond, you will be surprised just how much more wildlife will visit your garden. As aquatic conservation specialists, our staff are only too willing to assist in any queries you may have over the design and construction of a wildlife pond. Amongst the people we have assisted in the past are the R.S.P.B., schools, universities, councils, architects etc. We stock all that is needed to turn your garden into an aquatic conservation area

Pond Advice

The ideal position for the sighting of a water garden is in full sun, well away from overhanging trees and shrubs that are likely to screen the pool and pollute the water in autumn with their falling leaves. Bear in mind when planning the water garden to situate the feature where it will receive maximum focal attention.

Having decided upon the location, next to consider is size and shape. Generally the larger the pool the easier it is to create a natural balanced environment for both plants and fish. Form the shape by using a length of string laid out on the ground. Avoid intricate designs as these are rarely a success.

Another important consideration is depth; a good average being 18". However in larger pools where more sizeable fish can be accommodated a depth of 2'-3', may be preferred. When excavating the pool a ledge should be formed 9" below the water surface and approximately 1' wide on which to place marginal plants. A total shelf length of no less than half the pool's perimeter will be adequate to accommodate the marginals.

Snails do not help keep the water clear, they do however keep at bay a certain amount of rotting vegetation and any decomposing food that may go unnoticed. One snail can be introduced for every 2 sq. ft. of surface water. Of the varieties available Planorbis Corneus, the Ramshorn is the better. We can supply snails, please select Plants from the menu bar.


Autumn/Winter Care Of Ponds

During the Autumn, plants begin to slowly die down. Marginal plants should be cut down to the surface of the water, and all decaying Water Lily leaves and flowers etc. removed.