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Amphibians, particularly frogs, require damp habitats. Whatever
your size of garden any kind of water related feature such as a
bog garden area or mini ‘tub’ pond that’s accessible will be
beneficial to your local amphibians.
A bog garden can be a stand alone feature or be a perfect
habitat accompaniment alongside your pond. A ‘tub’ style mini
wildlife pond can be easier to install and manage than a larger
sized wildlife pond, and are generally considered safer for
children.
These damp, marshy areas are invaluable to amphibians during the
summer offering shelter and foraging space and are very simple
to make. They can be any size ad are best situated in open sun
or partial shade. Dig a hole to a depth of around 30 - 45cm and
line with a cheap butyl or plastic liner. Then pierce it with a
garden fork a few times every meter or so to allow for some
drainage to prevent flooding. Finally backfill with the removed
soil: preferably with added compost to improve moisture
retention. You are then ready to plant - choose native marsh
plants from your local garden centre or order on line, for
example, marsh marigold or purple loosestrife. Once planted you
can water your bog garden until the soil looks fully soaked;
rainwater is best. You could also add some old logs and rocks to
the bog garden for added wildlife value. Cut back plants after
seeding in the autumn when wildlife will be less active.
Ponds don't need to be large to attract wildlife - frogs and
newts may still lay eggs in small water bodies (1m wide or even
less). Even if frogs and newts don’t choose to spawn in your tub
pond it will certainly help them to keep cool and moist in the
summer and many insects and other animals will make use of it.
All you need is a container such as a large tub or a recycled
sink or half-barrel. Sink this into the ground or, with safety
in mind, alternatively leave it standing and simply fill with
water (preferably rain water) and aquatic plants. If your pond
is free-standing, make sure there are plenty of logs, pebbles
and plants in and around the pond to provide access for
wildlife.
Native aquatic plants.
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