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How can I create a healthy pond?
Q I have a new pond that I’m struggling with. What plants do I need for a healthy balance and where should each variety go in the water? Patricia Wood, via email
A Start by planting oxygenators, such as goldfish weed (Lagarosiphon) or pondweed (Potamogeton) 12in (30cm) apart in perforated containers of loam, to release oxygen into the water and lessen the risk of pea-soup or blanketweed algae colonising the pond.
Next, set the marginal plants: flowering rush, sweet flag, water plantain, marsh marigold and Iris laevigata, among others, in pots on the side shelf that comes with the pond, to create enjoyable focal points.
Finally, position a small water lily, such as blood-red and orange-stamened Nymphaea ÔFroebelii’ in the deepest part of the pond to clothe the water surface with handsome leaves and riveting, eye-catching starry blooms.
A healthy pond is an excellent addition to any garden and will attract all sorts of wildlife. With any luck you will get frogs and newts, insects will move in, and birds and mammals
