Wildlife Pond

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I have just started this summer’s project, which is the creation of a wildlife pond especially for frogs

When I bought the property there was a circular area of paving stones in the middle of the front lawn surrounded by lavenders. I wanted a goldfish pond and bought the circular stock tank shown in the photo (2022) for that purpose. I figured out a way of adding plants and received a bounty of free mature goldfish one summer. However, the fish did not survive the winter and this summer the plants were struggling as well.

So I’ve given up on having goldfish and on using the stock tank as a pond feature. I looks more natural already. Next step is to design the build details and start digging. I am having fun!

Progress Photos

26/06/25 rough hole dug
10/07/25 – layers: sand, liner, sand, center stepping stone
15/07/25 gravel over sand, water added, liner cut, folded over edge, reused paving stones
16/07/25 construction done, soil backfill, gravel edges

Mistakes, I’ve made a few

So I have a sterile, muddy puddle that is waiting for a wildlife invasion. I dream of the pond filled with healthy water plants, interesting aquatic insects, and of course frogs and tadpoles.