It's a Jungle Out There

Plants, Gardens and Gardening

Archive for the 'Garden Ponds' Category


   Jun 19

Solar Energy is Linked to Sustainable Farming

The gardening process is not something that everyone can get to during the day.  If you have to go to work every day and work eight hours then you may not have time for gardening at normal times.  It would make sense to do some of your gardening at night if you need to.  If you are going to do your gardening at night, then you should use the proper lighting.  If you want to plant a small patch of tomatoes at night it makes sense to use solar powered garden lights.  Solar power is important as people attempt to protect the Earth and to save money on energy costs.
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   Apr 19

How To Get Started With Pond Plants

A pond is a very exciting design project, and after it is build one of the most satisfying aspects to it is choosing your fish and plants. Some pond owners just keep plants in their creations. A well planted and landscaped garden pond is very relaxing to look at and the sound of water trickling will give your garden a tranquil feel where you can escape the pressures of the outside world. There’s nothing better than watching your carefully chosen plants sway in the breeze.

A well planted pond keeps your water clean and reduces nitrate build up which in turn, will prevent algae growth. Of course, the amount of plants that you may have will depend on the size of your pond. If you aren’t careful and overstock you may be faced with dying plants as the oxygen level is diminished and other nutrients are in short supply. For every ten square feet plant approximately: one water lily and bog plant and two bunches of oxygenating plants.
 
One of the most popular ways of planting your pond plants is to use the baskets that they are bought in. They will already have soil or compost in that is specially designed for pond plants. If you buy any floating plants they come without baskets and will be fine just floating in your pond. If you have a large Koi pond you will need to protect the plants’ roots more than if you keep goldfish in a smaller pond.
 
A final consideration would be to only keep plants from a reputable aquatic or pond supplier in your pond. No matter how attractive the plants look in your local lake or river it isn’t ever advisable to bring some home to plant in your pond. You may be unwittingly introducing an invasive plant species which will kill off all your well chosen expensive plants and all your effort with your pond will go to waste. Choosing too many surface floating pond plants can have the same effect so choose these with care. If you are unsure, advice can always be sought from your local pond or aquatic retailer.

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