Thinking of a garden pond? David Domoney offers his thoughts and some advice to ponder on.

26 July 2021

Sunken Ponds

The subtle and sophisticated look of sunken ponds are enough to add some magic to your garden. They can help to create different compartments of the garden and introducing the element of water can bring so much calmness and serenity to your space.
 

Things to ponder

Before getting started, consider the practicality of the pond because sunken ponds can be a hazard if left without boundaries whilst little curious feet or paws are wandering. Therefore, balance the feasibilities and if this isn’t the right choice, you can incorporate water using raised ponds or even water-wall features instead.
 

SAFE BOUNDARIES

If your heart is set on the sunken pond, it’s important to judge how much space you have and the position you want it to be in. Ideally, somewhere away from overhanging trees and a spot in partial shade and sun to ensure the pond isn’t too hot which can create more algae, and also harm any pond plants.
 

The Right Temperature

Decide whether you want to be able to see the pond from your windows too so you can appreciate it from your home all year round. Once the spot is determined, you can think about the size and shape of the pond.
 

A Purposeful pond

Ascertain exactly what you want from the pond. Do you want a wildlife pond, a fishpond, or simply a space to hear the trickling sound of flowing water?
 

Sunken ponds are great options for wildlife ponds as they are easily accessible and with added features such as slopes or gradual steps, they become approachable to garden visitors such as hedgehogs, newts, and frogs.

Wildlife

However, if keeping fish in the pond, the depth needs to be considered to ensure they are happy all year round when temperatures fluctuate.


DEEP DOWN

The surface of the water will be cooler than the deeper areas during winter, therefore fish will need the right depth of about 60cm to be able to survive the cold. The bigger the pond, the better because temperatures rise and fall less compared to smaller ponds.

 

Dynamic design

The shape of your pond is another important decision. You can either see what materials you can get hold of and work from there to save material waste, or if you have a specific appearance in mind, plan from there.

STRUCTURE

Square, geometric shaped ponds can have a contemporary and structured effect, whilst curved, sweeping edges can have a natural and tranquil impact.
 

CURVing ponds

Mixing and matching the shapes can create an intriguing focal point in your garden. For example, a square pond that is embellished with a Stone Sphere will add height to the sunken pond for a dramatic statement with the swirling shades of cream and brown hues.

 

ADDING HEIGHT TO A POND

Or opt for it as a central point in a circular pond that will emphasise the shapes and bring a soft, smooth and cosy atmosphere to the garden too.
 

Perfect pond paving

Whatever shape and size you opt for, surround the space with natural stone patio paving that can accentuate the pond and create even more of a focal point.

Choose pavers that are cohesive with the rest of your garden to create a seamless design. For a great impact, opt for Tudor Antique which is hand-crafted natural stone with a smooth riven finish for a tumbled and established aesthetic. In a modern space, Denby delivers darker tones, whilst the warm brown tones of Oxford can create a tapestry of bronze and chocolate colours. Then, use Tudor Cobbles in the same shade to surround the perimeter of the pond for a harmonious appearance. This is a marvellous way of joining together the different elements of your garden to merge patio and seating areas with focal features.

 

Planting a pond

Having a pond in the garden is another opportunity to introduce a whole host of other plants that will thrive in that environment.
 

For your wildlife pond, choose Veronica beccabunga (brooklime) which has royal blue flowers that bloom on a horizontal plant that spreads across the surface of the water. The plant will attract bees and butterflies with the flowers during spring and summer.

The cheery yellow flowers of Nymphoides peltata (yellow floating heart) complement the bright green rounded leaves. They need a sunny spot in shallow water where they will make a lovely addition to a pond.
 

Add height to the margins of your pond with Eriophorum angustifolium (common cotton sedge) which has tufts of white hairy flower-heads during summer. In a sunny spot with acidic soil, these hardy plants can grow up to 50cm tall.

Sunken ponds are a fantastic way of bringing water into your garden in a natural looking way. By surrounding it with paving that matches your garden style and embellishing with perfect pond plants, you can have a focal feature to enjoy all year round.

For this month I have selected a video that encompasses the magical sounds of water that delivers calmness,  serenity and inner peace to me when relaxing in the garden.
 

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