Garden ponds and fountains were once mainly for
the very rich. Today, anyone can have a garden pond. A
fountain or waterfall can be included almost anyplace —
even if your "yard" is limited to a patio or
balcony.
Adding water to your patio can
be as simple as setting out a shallow dish of water for use as
a birdbath. Any shallow container at least 6 inches wide and a
half-inch deep will work. Pie pans, garbage can lids, or
flowerpot bases work well in small spaces. Fill the container
with clean water and wash it every day or two. The wildlife
attracted to the water will depend on where you place the
container. Containers set on the ground usually attract the
greatest number of wildlife species, from birds and
butterflies to squirrels and toads. Hanging birdbaths or ones
on pedestals will be restricted to those creatures that can
fly or jump high enough to reach the water, and give birds a
chance to escape from neighborhood cats and other
predators.
If you want to grow water
plants — and perhaps a fish or two — you can add a
tub garden to your patio or yard. Many products are on the
market today. Frequently, half whiskey kegs with plastic
liners are used. Numerous plastic tub gardens are available in
a variety of sizes and have the advantage of being lightweight
and inexpensive. Small pumps can be added to any of these
containers to allow for fountains or cascades of water. Moving
water is pleasant to listen to and attractive to
wildlife.
Here are some considerations
before adding a small tub pond to your patio or
yard.
If you want to grow water
plants, choose a container that is at least a foot deep. While
some water plants do well in shallow water, other
species — including some water lilies — require
deeper water.
Consider adding a variety of plant
species. Depending on the depth of your tub, place pots of
plants either on the bottom or on bricks to achieve the proper
depth. Floating plants such as duckweed also can be added.
Floating plants reduce the amount of sunlight that enters the
water, which helps reduce the growth of algae. When adding
potted plants, place a layer of stones on top of the soil
before setting the pots in the water. This will help hold the
soil in place and help prevent any fish from "digging" into
the pots.
If you live in a cold climate, consider
what you will do with the tub garden in the winter. Small tubs
can be moved inside if a suitable location is available. Other
tubs may need to be drained to prevent damage from freezing.
Caution: Use caution and take security measures if small
children have access to your pond. Even small tub gardens can
be hazardous. If you intend to have a fountain or waterfall,
be sure a grounded electrical outlet is available.
Above all, have fun. Water
gardens provide habitat for wildlife, but also can be an
enjoyable hobby for you and your family.
