Construction

All our ponds are made from Heavy Duty EPDM Rubber. It can be used outside for many decades without degradation, and has a tried and tested history as a pond liner. 

 

It has high tear resistance, is UV stable, and is certified non-toxic. We use two layers of fleece underlay to prevent the liner coming into contact with stones or roots in the underlying soil.

Our ponds are designed as habitats for wildlife and native plants.  There are many plants which are happy to live with their roots in shallow water, and most pond invertebrates are found in the top ten centimetres. 

 

The ponds are organised as a number of shelves, usually three shelves plus a deeper section. The upper shelf is above water level, and is where the edge of the pond liner is secured. The liner is held down by turf, earth, river pebbles or a combination of these. The next shelf forms the perimeter of the pond. A shallow area next to the bank allows for easier wildlife viewing and means that any small mammals which tumble into the water can clamber out. 

 

As an additional precaution, a section of the pond edge will be composed of a gently sloping beach.  This also allows mammals and birds to drink from the pond while keeping their feet dry.

 

The upper submerged shelves of the pond are covered in a layer of RHS horticultural gravel, ready for planting. There is also the option of extending the pond liner at high water mark to create the conditions for a bog garden. The soil is permanently damp and provides a habitat for native wetland plants which are otherwise difficult to grow.

The best way to fill a pond is to leave it to the rain, which is easier in Scotland than in many other countries.  However it is also possible to use tap water, leaving it for a week or so to allow chlorine to clear.