Freshenupyourpond
I’VE just been one of the first journalists to get behind the wheel of the new Aston Martin’s DBX off-roader from James Bond’s favourite car firm. And the exhilarating drive in this sporty but elegant 4X4 left me stirred, but not shaken.
The British car-firm’s future depends on the success of the new 181 mph, £158,000 DBX built at St Athan, Wales. The fivedoor, five-seater crossover is designed to look and feel a leaner and smaller SUV than it really is.
Driving is a delight. Propelled by a powerful 4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine linked to a 9-speed automatic, developing 550hp, it accelerates with gusto from rest to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds up to a top speed of 181 mph. But, unlike Bond, don’t expect it to save the planet. It manages a miserly average 19.73 mpg with CO2 emissions of 325 g/km.
PONDS can often become tired and grubby in August. In hot weather, blooms of blanket weed or other algae can happen rapidly, especially if the pond is over- populated with fish. Those excrete nitrogen, which increases algae levels.
For water purity and a healthy pond, much of the surface should be shaded by floating leaves of water lilies or other aquatics.
A cover of 70 per cent or more is desirable at the height of summer. That keeps the water cooler and reduces light intensity, slowing the growth of green algae and invasive water weed.
To remain healthy and clear, ponds also need plenty of f submerged, oxygenating g weed. But if it becomes too dense, haul some out.
Check hanks of removed weed for trapped wildlife. Fresh water shrimps, water beetles or dragonfly larvae should be returned to the water.
Dragonfly nymphs and water beetle larvae bite so handle those with caution.
Blanket weed and algae will reduce naturally when day length shortens more rapidly.
Using chemical algicides provides temporary relief, but not a permanent cure.