Floating islands are not only beautifully aesthetic, but also improve water quality, serve as fish habitats, help mitigate bank erosion, and work to reduce mosquito populations. Thanks to some clever pond management and strategic planning, you can improve your craft by adding this unique feature to the water.
The first order of business is the design of the island. It is important to know which options are best for your pond. If your pond is well aerated, you can grow almost everything on your island, which will usually grow in your local climate. Flowers, shrubs and other ornamental plants are commonly used by plants. If your pond is not well aerated, you should stick to wetlands and strive for a more natural look. Floating islands tend to germinate and ripen early in spring and remain green longer in the fall due to the thermal effects of water. In addition, you can develop a landing strategy to attract or repel waterfowl. For example, an attractive water bird will allow you to create a separate area for feeding your fish without the intervention of geese, blue, etc.
Once your design is locked, you can focus on the health benefits they bring to your pond. If your pond is associated with high nutrient loading from fertilizer lawns or storm waste, floating islands can improve water quality, acting as a natural way to “get” nutrients from water. Then the nutrients turn into an attractive habitat for your pond. If you are strategically located, your island can prevent bank erosion by breaking waves that usually overlap a bank.
If you are a native south, you know that mosquitoes are common in this part of the country. Floating islands will provide habitat for fish, nymphs and other animals that feed on mosquitoes. Mosquito larvae and other small insects serve as good food for your young fish, and also provide cover for young predators and fish fish.
Floating islands are a fun way to add variety to your pond. If you are a novice gardener, try growing some ornamental plants, or if you are an experienced and ambitious gardener, try starting a garden with succulents, such as watercress or ginger. Make your island a paradise. If you do not know where to start, contact your local biologist for recommendations on which plants will best develop in your area.
