Ponds above the ground make a creative patio feature

Instead of a potted conifer, annual or Buxus why not look out for a decorative container such as a half whiskey barrel, a disused deep enamel basin or a fibreglass tank to create a pond for growing water lilies. The tub must be placed where it will get sunlight.  Before planting-up your tub, it is important that you make sure it is thoroughly cleaned to prevent any possible contamination to the water. more

If you are going to use a container such as a half whiskey it is advisable to line it with a pond liner before adding compost and planting-up. The pond liner will both preserve the whiskey or wooden barrel and keep it water tight.

Use either of two planting methods for water lilies or other deep aquatic plants. Either, cover the floor of the tub with a generous layer of compost and grow your aquatic plants directly in this or you can use aquatic planting baskets. These plastic baskets are stocked in most garden nurseries. The baskets will need to be lined with hessian to stop the loose compost from spilling out into the water. The most suitable compost to use is good clean soil dug from the garden which hasn't recently been dressed with artificial fertiliser. The soil will need to be thorough sifted to remove any twigs, dried leaves or other large particles. Apart from the occasional top-up of water your patio pond will require very little attention.

For those whose gardens are too small to build a pond but yearn to bring the tranquillity and beauty of water into your home enviroment, then why not consider an above the ground pond in a sunny corner of your patio or garden.