Bringing the Magic of Backyard Ponds to Life

13
Sep

Water, the elixir of life, is an indispensable element in any backyard wildlife haven. If you’re yearning to infuse your outdoor space with a dash of enchantment, why not dive into the world of backyard ponds? Not only do they create a captivating focal point, but they also beckon a delightful array of wildlife, from the aerial acrobats, the birds, to the graceful dragonflies. Let’s embark on a journey to design your own watery wonderland right in your backyard.

Pondering the Pond: Size Matters

Before you embark on your backyard pond odyssey, it’s wise to navigate the legal waters. Some areas have specific regulations governing pond construction and liability in case of accidents. Take a quick dip into your local ordinances or consult your county or city government offices to ensure you’re in compliance before splashing out on your pond project.

The Blueprints of Bliss

Your pond adventure begins with two critical decisions: size and location. Ponds thrive when bathed in at least five hours of sunlight each day, but don’t sweat it if your spot is a bit sun-shy. However, keep in mind that ponds beneath leafy canopies tend to attract a heap of fallen leaves that greedily slurp up precious oxygen. Also, be cautious about runoff – too much of it can turn your pond into a muddy mire. If runoff is in the cards, consider creating a rain garden as an alternative water feature.

Once you’ve pinned down the perfect pond locale, the creative fun begins. Outline your pond-to-be using stakes and strings, or follow the shape of a pre-formed liner if you’ve opted for one. Get imaginative with your pond’s shape – it’s your artistic canvas! After the outline, it’s time for the big dig. If you’re planning a deeper pond (over 1.5ft), be sure to incorporate shallow areas along the edges, perfect for amphibians and pond plants. These “shallow shelves” are also shady oases that won’t turn into simmering soup on a sunny day. If you’re feeling fancy, consider partially submerged logs or rocks as critter-friendly features.

Laying the Liner: Making a Splash

With your pond hole ready, it’s time to line it. Liners come in all shapes and sizes, from flexible options to pre-formed ponds or even repurposed tubs and barrels. In areas with a high water table, you can skip the liner altogether. If you’re going with a liner, make sure it’s large enough to extend a foot beyond the pond’s edges.

To install a plastic sheet liner, stretch it across the hole, secure it with stones, and slowly fill it with water. The water will mold the liner to your pond’s contours. After a week, trim the excess liner about 6 inches past the edge and cover it with soil, creating a natural border for native plants.

For pre-formed ponds or tubs, add a layer of sand for a level surface. Fill the tub with water and let it stand for a week. If any settling occurs, fill in the gaps with soil.

To Pump or Not to Pump?

Small backyard ponds typically don’t need pumps and filters and should not be drained regularly. However, if you’re keen on a pump, place it slightly above the pond’s surface to avoid clogs. The gentle “gurgling” of a small reciprocating pump can be music to the ears of many bird species. If fish are part of your pond plan, then a pump and filter are usually essential.

In the Green Zone: Dealing with Algae

Once your pond is established, a hint of green is perfectly normal – it’s just algae doing its thing. If you spot an overgrowth of “fuzzy” green bits on the water’s surface, it’s time to add fresh water to curb excessive algae.

Planting Paradise: Greenery for Your Pond

Plants aren’t just ornamental; they offer food, shelter, and nesting sites for various species. To strike a balance, don’t cover more than 65% of the pond’s surface with plants during summer to allow sunlight and oxygen to penetrate. Stick to native or non-aggressive non-native species when landscaping your pond. Avoid invasive species like the plague; instead, opt for options from the lists below.

Emergent Plants:

  • American water plantain (Alisma subcordatum)
  • American water willow (Justicia americana)
  • Arrow arum (Peltandra virginica)
  • Arrowhead (Sagittaria spp.)
  • Blue flag iris (Iris prismatica, Iris versicolor, or Iris virginica)
  • Bulrush (Scirpus spp.)
  • Bur-reed (Sparganium americium)
  • Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
  • Cattail (Typha spp.)
  • Monkeyflower (Mimulus ringens)
  • Nodding beggar ticks (Bidens cernua)
  • Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata)
  • Spikerush (Eleocharis spp.)
  • White turtlehead (Chelone glabra)
  • Wool grass (Scirpus cyperinus)

Floating Plants:

  • Bladderworts (Utricularia spp.)
  • Duckweed (Lemna spp.)
  • Pondweed (Potamogeton spp.)
  • Water lilies (Nymphaeceae family)
  • Watershield (Brasenia schreberi)
  • Yellow pond lily (Nuphar lutea)

Submerged Plants:

  • Water celery (Vallisneria americana)
  • Waterweed (Elodea canadensis)

Welcoming Aquatic Visitors

Over time, your pond will become a hub for various critters. Insects like dragonflies, beetles, and mayflies are the first arrivals, with the potential for some pesky mosquitoes. To control mosquito larvae without harming other creatures, consider natural pathogens like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) or Bacillus sphaericus (B. sphaericus). These mosquito-killing superheroes won’t harm anything except mosquitoes.

Frogs, toads, salamanders, and turtles may hop in for a visit, with the occasional cameo by songbirds and small animals. If amphibians are on your guest list, hold off on adding fish to your pond – they’re not on friendly terms with amphibian eggs and larvae!

The Great Pond Cleanup

Your pond is a low-maintenance wonder, but a yearly spring cleaning is a good habit. Drain about half of the water, and if necessary, remove all animals and plants temporarily to a tub filled with de-chlorinated water while you clean. Scrub away plant debris, divide, repot, and fertilize plants if needed. Refill the pond, adding a de-chlorinator to keep it safe for all your pond inhabitants. Alternatively, let the water sit for at least 24 hours before reintroducing plants and animals.

Now that you’re armed with the know-how, go ahead and make a splash with your backyard pond. Your little oasis will not only elevate your outdoor space but also provide a haven for a delightful cast of wildlife characters. Dive in and let your wild backyard adventure begin! 🏞️🦋🐸