Natural Ponds May Still Require Regular Maintenance
Some country homeowners are fortunate enough to have natural ponds on their property, however they take time and work to maintain. The result can be rewarding, however if natural ponds are left to their own devices can rapidly become a problem area in the yard. Those fed by a natural spring or small stream will usually be kept clean on their own but those where the water is relatively still can quickly become a habitat for pesky bugs.
Those with a small stream running through their property may find natural ponds with a steady supply of fresh water need very little maintenance to keep it clean. However, during times the stream feeding the pond may dry up and the water becomes covered with moss or other unwanted growth, often accompanied by an unpleasant odor. To combat this, installing a water spout or fountain can keep the water aerated and considerably cleaner.
Many folks with natural ponds on their property have followed the old belief that tossing a bale of hey into the pond will keep it clean. The theory is that as the moon adjusts the tide of even the smallest natural ponds, the bale will float around the surface gathering organic materials in its path. Once it is saturated and become heavy, it sinks to the bottom. The problem with this plan is that the bale does sink to the bottom and after a year or two will reduce the depth of the pond.
Wildlife Magically Appears At Natural Ponds
Homeowners often find unexpected surprises in natural ponds in the form of fish, ducks, geese and other forms of natural wildlife. Fish eggs can be carried in by flying wildlife and left behind in natural ponds where they grow into larger fish, creating a place for residents to have their own private fishing area without the expense of stocking the pond.
As is the care with many natural ponds, unless it is kept trimmed aquatic growth can quickly overtake the areas near the shore and cattails and other plants can clog any pump for a fountain. However, they also supply a natural food supply for any critters that choose to make the pond their home.
Depending on the attitude of the homeowner, natural ponds can be a blessing or a curse. Those that enjoy the outdoors and the extra wildlife they attract will properly maintain the area. Those who have no desire to work outdoors and take care of the pond properly will simply wish it would dry up.
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