What Is a Micropond?
A micropond, also known as a patio pond or container water garden, is not a new idea but has been appearing everywhere this summer. These small water features are a scaled-down version of full-size garden ponds or water gardens, creating mini ecosystems for plants, birds, pollinators, and microorganisms. They can be up to three or four feet in diameter and one or two feet in depth.
Because of their versatility and accessibility, microponds are proving popular as garden focal points and wildlife habitat. While kits are available, you can also design and style your micropond however you like by selecting each component individually. Follow this simple guide to make your own micropond at home.
How to Make a Micropond
Making a micropond is fairly straightforward if you follow this formula: container + rocks + water + native plants and oxygenators = a healthy ecosystem.
Along with obtaining each of the necessary elements, you’ll also need to decide where you want to place your micropond. Then follow these steps:
- Add a thin layer of clean rocks or gravel to the bottom of your container. This will ground the plants and ecosystem.
- Fill the container with clean, fresh water. If you want to add fish, either dechlorinate the water or allow it to sit undisturbed 24 hours beforehand to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
- Add your chosen water plants and a small fish or two if you like.
- Keep the water moving with a mini solar fountain or spout, which will help discourage algae and mosquitoes.
Best Materials to Use
Choosing a container is one of the most important parts of making a micropond. Consider the amount of space you have, what your budget is, and how much time you want to spend assembling everything. If you have a larger spot picked out, use a galvanized tub, stock tank, or concrete container. For patio microponds, smaller glazed pottery or a resin basin can fit nicely on a tabletop.
No matter which material you use, make sure the container is watertight. If you choose a container that was originally meant to be a planter, fill drainage holes with silicone.
Best Plants to Use
The plants you’ll use depend on the size of your container and where you want to place the micropond. It’s important to consider how big the plants will get and whether they require more sun or shade. Some small plants that do well in shallow water are dwarf water lilies, water forget-me-nots, water mint, and dwarf sedge varieties.
Small oxygenating plants are important to outcompete algae in your micropond. Growing hornwort, anacharis, or dwarf sagittaria can help keep your water clean and clearer.
How to Maintain a Micropond
Microponds are fairly self-sufficient, especially with water-cleaning plants. However, check them regularly for any obvious debris like fallen leaves to remove. If you added fish to the micropond, you may also need a filtering system to ensure the water stays clean enough. And don’t forget to feed them. As the water evaporates, top up your micropond with fresh water.
