Our natural garden pond is now becoming established and we have frogs, toads, newts, dragonflies as well as the array of pond life such as whirlygig beetles, pond skaters and water boatmen.
The honey bees from our two hives also regard it as an important source of water. It has been a long dry summer here in Lincolnshire (unlike some areas I believe) and the pond has been important to all wildlife.
The pond was dug out of the natural clay that makes up most of the garden. This is nice because it drains excess water from the vegetable garden and holds on to it. It doesn't drain away and the only losses are from evaporation.
The honey bees like to drink from it and I believe that the natural clays and minerals around the edge help to supply them with all that they need. They certainly seem to gather around the edges with their proboscis in the mud.
Many ponds are more formal and kept clean and filtered. This is perhaps more important if you have a concentration of Koi that need to be kept in good health. We have opted for no fish and to keep it as natural as possible. Although we don't like the blanketweed, we only control it when it gets to choking point. A small amount is a bonus.
The honey bees use it as a landing pad so they can take on water.
So if your pond looks a bit untidy, just say its natural and much better for wildlife!
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