|
|
Ponds are much quieter in autumn. Most animals have reproduced
and moved on or died off. A few species have moved back into the
pond ready to see out winter (like
frogs).
Plants have died back, leaving their seeds for the following
year. This is the best time of year to give the pond a
clear-out, since the least number of species will be affected.
Be wary of removing too much of the silt on the bottom of the
pond – it contains eggs, grubs and other insect larvae and
provides a refuge for overwintering amphibians.
Falling leaves in large numbers could clog up ponds and cause a
nutrient overload in autumn. This can lead to algal blooms in
spring. Steer clear from using pond-netting though, sometimes
the animals you’re trying to attract (like
grass
snakes or hedgehogs) can become caught and die. The best
solution is to try and get out there daily to take some of the
leaves out with a net. Alternatively consider cutting back
nearby trees.
Clear outs.
>>>
Gardening with care.
>>> |