How to Build a Mini Pond
Build a mini pond with your family and discover what nature you can attract to your garden!
What you will need
- A large, hardy container for water
- Gravel and/or stones
- Garden spade
- Native pond plants (you can add these later)
How to make your mini pond
- Find or buy a large, hardy container to make the base of your pond. This could be anything from a washing-up bowl, a large plant pot or even an old kitchen sink! Top tip: if your container leaks, pop a plastic liner inside.
- Move your container to your designated pond spot. It can be raised or dug into the ground. The easier it is to climb into, the more animals will use your pond.
- Fill in any holes in your container and then lay a base of gravel at the bottom. Create stepping stones through your pond to help animals move around in deeper water. Remember to create a shallow end to help animals get out easily.
- Fill your pond with rainwater (tap water contains chemicals). Once the pond is full, you can plant a few native pond plants using aquatic plants and soil from the garden centre.
Aftercare
Pond animals should keep your pond clean, but to start with you might have to remove blanket weeds with a stick. You may also have to top the pond up when the weather is warmer. Be sure to learn all about the animals using your ponds with online ID guides!
Share your creations with us on social media by tagging @theparkstrust.
Download the guide
Ponds in Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes' parks are home to over 300 ponds. They are important habitats for dragonflies and other wildlife, including the great crested newt, a protected species.
Nature Activities
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Check out our range of outdoor activities designed to help everyone get closer to nature and give local wildlife a helping hand.
