Pond Edging

[citychick]

Hi There,

Back in early November we dug out a pond. Its filled (naturally) and I bought sale plants from Wyevales, Lillies, Marsh Marigold and a few other marginals. The pond isnt finished yet as we dont know what to do for the edging. What would be best for wildlife?

Thanks

Lauren

[bugly's]

if you can turf over the edge and into the water, this is the most natural. you can clip this to keep it short or allow sections to grow according to your needs, plant into this with emergent plants such as ragged robin if you can let it grow while they flower. Put a log into the pond as well so 60% or more rests on edge and the rest dips into water. You can gravel over the edge and into shallow gentle slopping sections but use rounded stones not chipping types. If you have to then use slabs but try to make sure the water comes to the bottom of these rather than having a drop into the pond. The trick is to have the water as high as possible against the edging or some method of easy access for smaller creatures.

[citychick]

Thank you - Seems like DIY stores wont be getting any turf in until March and I am sick of looking at the black pond liner! Roll on march!

Another question - does anyone know if those solar pond pumps are any good? Apparently bird are more attracted to running water but I dont want to wire electrics up for a a sprinkley fountain.

[Jez]

This link might answer your question Lauren. which pump for my pond

Personally if it comes to making a wildlife pond I wouldn't fit a pump but that's just my opinion!

[citychick]

Yeah we decided against it in the end anyway. Apparently lily's prefer still water anyway!

[Cowgirl]

Originally Posted by bugly's

if you can turf over the edge and into the water, this is the most natural. you can clip this to keep it short or allow sections to grow according to your needs

I did this with the turf dipping into water, but my pond level kept dropping quite alarmingly I think there was a major wicking effect. Was I doing it right? I cut it right back so it didn't touch the water, problem stopped but then had blackliner showing so bought some cheap rolls of that log edging for borders (Morrisons had them on offer) & hung them via tent pegs driven down from the edge of the turf. This hid the liner & hopefully things can still climb up? Hopefully this year the grass will grow & will let it fall naturally & cover up any unsightly bits. This wicking effect does it sound right? Didn't realise grass roots can suck up so much water!