Our wildlife pond is taking shape
Our kidney-shaped wildlife pond at our Step Outside Gardening Group is now a proper feature in the allotment, complete with three neat step levels ready for future frogs, toads, newts, beetles, water snails, dragonfly larvae and any birds who fancy a paddle. In the centre, there’s a little two-foot-deep pool, perfect for a good creature swim.
Today’s dream team were Anni and Max, joined by powerhouse duo Duncan and Brian. Duncan turned up with tools and superhero stamina, while Brian brought steady strength as we shifted twelve wheelbarrows of earth between us. We were also joined by Jackie and her husband, Tim, who cleared the flower beds and vegetable patches.
Naturally, we wrapped it all up with a well-earned cuppa and a packet of chocolate biccies. (And yes… Anni and Max did briefly contemplate turning the newly dug pond into a makeshift Jacuzzi.)
Next, we'll be laying the underlay and liner at our next meet-up, followed by the surrounding stones. Come spring, native aquatic and marginal plants will settle onto the step levels, with some rustic seating nearby so everyone can sit back and enjoy the new wildlife hub.
It’s a brilliant addition to the allotment, and we can’t wait to watch it come to life. Anni and Max might miss out on the Jacuzzi, but the local critters are about to get the five-star spa of their dreams.
