Wildlife Pond Design and Choice of Pond Liner

For some time now, many people have been happy to have a home among well-tended lawns and gardens. However, more recently, people are turning away from that as they realise the growing need to attract and conserve the small creatures which once freely inhabitated UK gardens. Many gardeners are showing an interest in creating natural wildlife ponds in their gardens. If properly constructed these ponds will attract different animal species such as insects, frogs, slugs and even newts. Most pond liners available on the market and used in the construction of ponds are wildlife friendly, but do check with your supplier first.

There are a number of factors to consider when constructing a wildlife pond. Planning is of essence in this matter. You need to identify a design that will blend well with your garden. You also need to consider the type of pond liner to use. Start by visiting public parks and gardens to observe the water ponds created there. This will give you an idea of the kind of design you need to have for your garden. Consider the shape of your garden. Avoid designs that are not in harmony with the overall garden layout. For instance, it would be inappropriate to have a wide pond in a narrow garden.

Your design of choice must allow free flow of water to avoid stagnation in the pond. The pond should be simple and accessible to wildlife from at least one side. Draw a number of ponds incorporating different designs and shapes and try to identify the best location in your garden for each design. Web-based programs also provide a wide range of possible designs for you to choose.

After getting an appropriate design, identify a suitable location for the pond. Ideally, it should not be far from the house. It is important to have it close because of the need to extend electrical cables that will power the pond pump and filter. The pond should also be located far from trees. Some trees have very strong roots that can easily destroy the pond.

Consider also the type of pond liner you want to install. Pond liners are available in various materials and thicknesses. The flexible liners conform more readily to the shape of the pond and are less likely to get damaged.  An example are rubber pond liners such as Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) which, is long lasting, UV resistant and is more durable than a number of other liner types therefore is ideal for wildlife ponds. Always remember to protect the liner from destruction by sharp objects such as stones, roots and debris by laying a protective underlay such as Geotextile underlay before installing the pond liner. It also provides an escape route for gases that accumulate under the pond liner.

It is advisable to purchase a slightly bigger size than the actual dimensions of the pond to cater for the edges, which will secure the liner in place. The installation of your new pond liner should be a straightforward procedure provided the simple rules on excavation and pond liner installation are followed.