Ideas for Landscaping a Pond
- Water lilies are a popular pond plant.water lily image by Bohanka from Fotolia.com
When designing a pond's landscape, several factors should be considered before deciding on a theme. The size and depth of the pond affect what type of vegetation and embellishments can be used. If the pond is being dug anew, the shape should be irregular for a natural appearance and to facilitate creative landscaping, according to Texas A&M University's Extension. If there is a pre-existing pond, learning its attributes will aid in the landscaping planning process. - Some ponds are landscaped with the goal of attracting wildlife to the area. This can be a rewarding and exciting course, but it is important to move forward with caution. Invertebrates and microscopic organisms can be added with low risk, according to the University of Oregon's Extension. Find a nearby pond that appears to have a thriving, healthy ecological community and obtain permission, if necessary, to collect a bucket or two of water. Deposit the water as quickly as possible into your pond.
Other wildlife, including fish, reptiles and amphibians, should be allowed to find your pond on their own. Forcing their introduction may put them into an environment that is not naturally suited for their needs. If you opt to add fish, contact your local U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife to find out which species are native to your region, thus giving the fish the best chance for survival. - Fountains are especially popular in ponds with high public visibility. At the University of Massachusetts -- Amherst, for example, two fountains were installed in Campus Pond in May 2010. The fountains are aesthetically pleasing, but provide additional benefits. The underwater aeration and constant movement of water from the fountains helps the pond's water circulation, reduces silt buildups, and eliminates algae spread on the surface because the water is no longer dormant.
When considering fountains for your pond, it's important to remember the electrical requirements of the motor used in the fountain's function, as well as depth requirements. The fountains at Amherst needed about 30 inches of water for placement. - Garden ponds are stocked with flowers and other foliage that thrive when planted in soil that is totally submerged in water. The plants help oxygenate the water, minimize algae by using the nutrients in the water, and provide shelter for pond wildlife, according to Texas A&M University's Extension.
Popular flowering plants for garden ponds include golden clubs, thalia, yellow snowflakes and pickerel rush. Parrot's feather is a bright green plant that grows along the top of the water without flowering. Most garden pond plants need full sun.
