6. Good Organic Gardening - November-December 2016 AvxHome.in

Build a frog pond | THE SHED
10. Fill your pond with water. Rainwater
is best, as tap water often contains
chemicals such as fluoride and chlorine.
You can collect rainwater from your roof if
you don’t have a tank.
It’s important to note that different frog
species dwell at different heights, including
high up in trees. Some frogs prefer raised
ponds, which can be built using a raised
bathtub. Sean offers workshops that
demonstrate the different building methods
for different ponds.
The animals you provide habitat for will
control insect populations in your garden.
Mosquitoes are a great source of food in the
pond and will be eaten by frogs, small lizards
and some small birds. All kinds of birds might
drink from your pond, bathe in it and feed on
insects and larvae.
Be willing to attract all kinds of creatures,
even snakes, as they will prey on the frogs
and are an essential part of the ecosystem.
Remember, if you don’t disturb them, they
won’t cause you any harm. Bandicoots and
other marsupials such as antechinus may also
make a home around your pond.
Finally, don’t be tempted to populate your
pond with fish, as they will eat tadpoles and
insect larvae that are meant for native animals
to feed on. Now, sit back and relax as you listen
to the evening chorus the frogs will entertain
you with as they start to breed in the pond.
10
Fill with water and the
pond’s complete
Good Organic Gardening | 71