A small pond is the single best way to boost wildlife in your garden. Here's how to build one in a weekend.
Created by jflgardens.co.uk
Ponds are magnets for wildlife — frogs, newts, dragonflies and birds all depend on water. You don't need a big garden or a big budget: even a modest pond dug into a corner will quickly become a thriving pocket of life.
Choose a level area that gets some sun but a little shade, away from heavy leaf fall. Ideally place it where you can see it from the house, and where rainwater can naturally run in — a sheltered position helps the pond stay cool and stable.
The most wildlife-friendly ponds have gently sloping, shallow edges so creatures can drink and climb out safely. A deep-ish centre around 60cm gives a frost-free refuge, while shallow planting shelves let you grow marginal plants around the rim.
Use a purpose-made butyl liner protected by an underlay. Spread it evenly, weight the edges, then fill slowly with rainwater if you can — tap water is fine but needs to stand for a few days before planting to let chlorine dissipate.
Add a few oxygenating plants, some pond marginals and one or two flowering water plants, plus stones or a plank as a wildlife access ramp. Resist the urge to fill it with fish — a balanced natural pond quickly becomes home to far more fascinating life.
From planting & borders to a full wildlife-style overhaul, the JFL Gardens team works across Surrey and London.
