I've recently bought a house with an existing pond with 6 goldfish. I've done a good bit of maintenance but one thing puzzles me; there is an area about 2 x 4 feet (on the left of the photo) that I have no idea of its purpose. It's above the waterline, there is a fountain and a waterfall elsewhere so don't think that was it. There's just a rock base so it doesn't look like anything was growning there. It occured to me that maybe there was a statue or something. I need some ideas on how to use that area creatively yet keeping to the natural look of the pond. Should I plant something there (if so, what?) or try something different?
It certainly looks as though there may have been a garden sculpture there Drbarb. Maybe you could find one at a car boot sale or a recycling yard that would fit in the space and really set your pond off.
It almost looks as though it could be suited for a waterfall. Perhaps that used to be an active part of the pond? I think a statue of some sort would be nice, or if you really feel like taking on a project, you could omit that part completely. I look forward to hearing what you decide to do. Keep us updated!
Welcome to the Stew, drbarb. It's a very pretty pond - it certainly seems that the space held something decorative. If statuary doesn't excite you, maybe you could use the spot for a large potted plant, or perhaps a potted bog garden?
Looks like a former fountain or somesuch, have you pulled those rocks away to check for plumbing or wiring? Would be a good spot for a birdbath, perhaps one that sits low to the ground since there doesn't seem to be much cover close by for cats to hide in. Or perhaps encourage moss to grow over those rocks.
There's a waterfall already. It's in the center of the pond, water coming down over rocks and those light green plants. (It's actually a turtle spitting but...). Then there's a fountain on the right side. So two pumps going at all times. I asked at the aquarium store and he said he only dealt with water and this was land. Gee, thanks for the help, fella! I did have some potted plants there but everything else is so natural they seemed out of place.
How about a Japanese style stone lantern? With or without a base. You know, the ones to put candles in?
I think a statue of a crane would look good and would keep with the natural theme, or may a deer statue.
I like several of your ideas. The lantern is good, esp if I plant some vines around the base. There are a lot of eagles around here and they love goldfish - maybe a giant grizzly bear statue would keep them away.
Oo, I like the crane idea, we have Great Blue Herons (vaguely similar to cranes) and they love to hang around the ponds at the big golf course, eating all the tasty koi. It would be a big enough "bird" that an eagle wouldn't want to fuss with it. Hmm, I can see that by next spring I'll have all sorts of ideas for my little ponds!!
Ooohh I would love to have a pond... Those are lovely ideas by the Stewbies. 8) Welcome drbarb - glad you joined the stew - You will love it here!