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  you are in: ADVICE > FAQs > PONDS > BEST DESIGN?



Advice and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions about...

Ponds


What is the best pond design for amphibians?

Quick answer
Most important are gently sloping sides and shelved areas for plants.

Further information
For any pond design, the most important factor is to have gently sloping sides and plenty of native vegetation so the animals can easily enter and exit the water. Avoid paving slabs reaching right up to the water's edge as emerging young amphibians can stick to these and die in hot weather. Again, lots of native plants around the edge or the pond are a good idea.

A deeper section in the middle on the pond (at least 60cm) will provide an area for amphibians to lie dormant on the bottom of the pond during icy weather.

For more information on pond design, see our Just Add Water section.

More information:
O Amphibian-friendly gardening.
O Pond plants.