wildlife pond

[noviceveggrower]

Hi. Was just wondering if anyone had a wildlife pond at their allotments or at home in their gardens. I have a small allotment plot that has loads and loads of frogs and toads in it. I have a rose bush in a very large tub that really needs putting in the ground. so in spring am thinking of doing this and doing the pond if suitable.
Have two spots one in partial shade by a tree but am thinking of leaves and to much shade or in open. I know I would have to put it in at an angle with some large stones in case something like a hedgehog fell in. I know I am visited by them and foxes.
So advice needed please.
Thanks

[The Cobra]

When I took over my allotment plot I discovered a smallish plastic mould for a pond - which immediately got my small brain ticking! I really fancy the idea of a small pond at the lottie, so I may put it to good use in the spring. If nothing else it will be good to attract slug eating amphibians!!

[Dorothy rouse]

The 'allotment man', left a largish pond base/liner ( don't know what you call it), on our plots when we took them over 3 years ago, trouble is no one has done anything with it, or taken responsibility for building the pond, it has now been pushed between 2 sheds, maybe next year a couple of us cud sort it, but presumably would need some kind of maintenance ?

[noviceveggrower]

Hi. I didn't spot a single slug or snail down at the plot last year. Think frogs and toads got a load of them.
Lottie woman next to us said there use to be badgers about years ago.
Tell you what else I have haven't told hubby cause he doesn't like them but we have a massive tree in our plot and it had a bees nest in it.

[dogsbody]

OK, make the pond (in either location) as big as you can. In order for amphibians to winter safely it needs to be at least 18inches deep in one area. Sides need shelves for marginal plants and many sloping sides to allow unfortunates to climb back out again. Have a rummage through the threads on this forum as there are many more good tips here.

Have fun and enjoy!

[noviceveggrower]

thanks for the advice. Will measure the tub to make sure it is deep enough. If it is think I will give the kids the job of digging the hole for it. Will keep them busy for a bit.