Garden pond and Biotop - A living oasis in the garden
A garden pond and Biotop is much more than just a decorative element with water in the garden. It is a living body of water, a refuge for animals, a valuable habitat for plants and organisms and a place where nature and design come together in a unique way. A well-planned garden pond or natural pond creates an oasis that enriches the property, promotes biodiversity and gives the garden a special depth.
While a classic pond is often designed to be decorative, a Biotop is more closely modelled on a natural environment. Both variants can interact harmoniously and together form a small ecosystem that stabilises itself as it develops, provided that the planning, planting and maintenance are coordinated. At egli jona, we know how to create new living spaces in the garden with garden ponds and Biotopen to give you an oasis of well-being in your own home.
The importance of a pond - water as a central element
Water is an element that has always fascinated people. It brings movement, reflection and sound to the garden and creates an atmosphere that calms and revitalises. A pond acts as an antithesis to solid structures made of stone, wood or metal and brings a natural balance to the design.
A garden pond can have a formal, clear and geometric design or appear as an organic natural pond that blends naturally into the garden soil. Both variants have their charm, but the decisive factor is that they suit the surroundings, the location and the desired effect. Great landscape concepts can be created with water, but they should be well planned and harmonious.
Site selection - sun, wind and environment
The location of the pond is one of the most important factors for its future stability. A good location receives several hours of sun every day, but not full sunlight all day. Too much sun encourages algae growth, too little light inhibits the development of aquatic plants.
The wind also plays a role: a sheltered location prevents too many leaves from falling into the water, which can affect the water quality. At the same time, the pond should not be too close to large trees whose roots could damage the pond liner. A pond near a terrace, for example, creates a direct link between living space and nature. A Biotop at the edge of the property, on the other hand, acts as a small retreat for animals and plants.
Pond construction - shapes, materials, contents and design
There are various options available for pond construction. A liner pond is the most flexible option, as it can be adapted to any shape. Modern pond liners are robust, durable and available in various thicknesses. As the name suggests, liners are used for construction. Prefabricated pools are also suitable for smaller projects.
The water depth is decisive for later utilisation:
- Shallow ponds are suitable for insects, birds and amphibians.
- Deeper ponds also offer space for fish.
A Biotop requires different depth zones to allow for a variety of plant and animal life. The edge of the pond should slope gently so that animals such as hedgehogs, frogs, toads and birds can reach the water safely.
Plant life - diversity for balance and beauty
The planting is the centrepiece of a garden pond or Biotop. It provides oxygen, stabilises the ecological balance and creates a habitat for countless organisms.
Important plant zones
A pond consists of different areas, each of which requires different plant species:
- Riparian zone: Plants such as marsh iris, purple loosestrife and grasses that love moisture grow here.
- Shallow water zone: Ideal for plants such as water feathers or marsh plants that are partially submerged in water.
- Deep water zone: Here you will find water lilies that provide shade and cool the water.
- Floating plants: They reduce algae growth by filtering light.
Diverse planting ensures that the pond is self-regulating and the water quality remains stable.
Wildlife - amphibians, insects and fish
A garden pond or Biotop is a magnet for animals. Depending on the geographical location, insects, dragonflies, dragonfly larvae, newts or even frogs, toads and other amphibians will soon settle here.
Amphibians
Amphibians need shallow banks, quiet zones and sufficient plants. A Biotop offers them ideal conditions, as it not only provides water, but also moist areas in the surroundings.
Insects
Dragonflies and their larvae are a sign of good water quality. They need clear areas and plants that they can cling to.
Fish
Goldfish or other pond fish can be kept in larger ponds. However, they need sufficient depth, oxygen and protection from overheating.
Important: Fish are not always useful in a real Biotop as they can eat amphibian spawn. Here the owner must decide which species diversity is most important.
Water quality - balance instead of chemicals
A functioning pond depends on a natural balance. The water quality depends on many factors: Plants, light, temperature, nutrients and oxygen content. Filters can help, but are not always necessary, especially in a natural pond. It is crucial that there are enough plants to absorb nutrients and produce oxygen. Algae are part of every pond, but strong algae growth indicates an imbalance. This can be caused by too much sun, too many nutrients or too few plants.
Care - less is often more
A well-designed pond requires surprisingly little maintenance. However, it is important:
- Remove leaves regularly
- Cutting back plants
- Check the water level
- Maintain shoreline areas
- Clean the filter (if present)
A Biotop should be disturbed as little as possible so that the organisms can develop freely.
Design - harmony between water and garden
A garden pond or Biotop should blend harmoniously into the property. After all, they are natural design elements that should complement and enhance all practical areas, such as paths or seating areas.
The pond can serve as a calm counterpoint to a lively garden or as a lively centre that attracts the attention of residents and guests. It is crucial that the water, plants and surroundings are in harmony with each other in order to achieve the harmony that makes a garden a new living space that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Your partner for garden ponds and Biotope
A garden pond and Biotop only develop their full effect when planning, materials, technology and planting work together harmoniously. This is precisely where we at egli jona ag provide support with our many years of experience and expertise.
Our team supports garden owners in selecting the right products, provides practical design tips and helps to create a Biotop that is self-regulating in the long term and promotes biodiversity in the garden. The result is a body of water that not only looks beautiful, but is also ecologically valuable.
A garden pond and Biotop as the centrepiece of the garden
A garden pond and Biotop is a gift to nature and to the owner himself. It creates an oasis of calm, promotes biodiversity, provides a habitat for countless animals and plants and transforms the garden into a living, constantly changing place.
With the right planning, a variety of plants and a good location, you can create a self-regulating body of water that will provide pleasure for many years to come. A Biotop is an example of how nature and design can form a harmonious whole in the garden, in contrast to purely decorative elements that have no ecological value. Creating a pond is not only a visual highlight, but also a valuable contribution to biodiversity and the natural balance in your own garden.
Let us advise you without obligation and find out what you need for your garden pond or Biotop, from planning a new habitat to the perfect planting. Transform your garden into a living oasis that combines nature, water and biodiversity.
