Swimming pond

A natural pool offers the best of both a pond and a swimming pool, without chemicals.

• The water is kept clean and algae-free with a balance of micro-organisms and plants. Once established, it is a simple, natural and effective system. You must keep nutrient levels low by discouraging water fowl, and promptly removing leaves. Designs and planting vary, but the building method is similar. • A free-form hole is excavated with

edges varying from sloping – to provide safe access for wildlife – to steep-sided for swimmers. • The earth walls are lined, and

banks built to keep plants and swimming areas separate for ease of vacuuming the pool lining. • Filtration technology varies, but

one popular system cleans water through a sump of shingle, preventing blanket weed growth. • Decks, steps and ladders go in. • Balanced planting, including marginals and oxygenators, is added, plus large-leaved lilies for shade in shallow non-swimming areas, keeping the water cool. • Regular sweeping, vacuuming

and leaf netting keeps the water crystal clear.