Water Gardening Bernie Dinter, Dinter Nursery
W
ater is an important element in the garden that should not be overlooked. Creating a water feature adds a new element to the garden. In hotter climates water is a key feature of many gardens. Water reflects the surrounding colours of plants and sky, creates motion with fountains and waterfalls and enhances the ecology of the garden. Birds and insects are attracted to water and introducing fish adds more interest. Water
features can range from simple containers of water to elaborate ponds that are the focal point of the garden. A water feature can range from a repurposed container to a large pond with pumps, filters, fountains, streams, and waterfalls. The water quality must be managed to avoid the growth of algae and the breeding of mosquitoes. Oxygenating plants, floating plants that shade the surface like lilies and hyacinths, and semi submerged
plants on the water’s edge creates a healthy balance that keeps the water clear. Once a new pond’s nutrient cycle comes into balance, fish can be added. A formula is one inch of fish per square foot of water surface. Fish need ponds deep enough to hide from predators and to hibernate below the ice in winter. Fish will feed on insect larvae and should only be fed what they can eat in 5 minutes. Water features with shallow areas attract birds and insects, giving a balanced ecology to the garden. Insects, like the pollinating Blue Mason Bees, are looking for mud to build nests while birds
want to clean and bathe themselves. Dragonflies are attracted to water and are a major predator of pest insects. With the right balance of predator insects, pest management happens naturally. Finally, there is the soothing aspect of seeing water and the sounds from moving water drowning out less desirable background noises. At any scale, water features can be part of your garden.
WATER GARDENING Improving the ecology of your garden Pond Liner from 5’ to 50’ wide Pumps for fountains to waterfalls Filters and fittings Water conditioners Decorative Fountains Fish from Goldfish to Koi Trapdoor Snails Fish food Plants: Lilies Floaters Marginals Oxygenators Water Garden Soil Fertilizer SUMMER HOURS: Weekdays: 8:30 to 5:30 Weekends and holidays: 9 to 5 Serving local gardeners since 1973
www.dinternursery.ca 250 748-2023
5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1
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