Go with the flow

TRICKLING water is among the most soothing soundtracks for your day in the garden.

Adding a pond to your outdoor space will not only create a peaceful haven, it will also become a sanctuary for wildlife.

Now is a good time to start planning your watering hole before autumn sneaks up on us.

Of primary concern is making sure your pond is child-friendly if you have little ones.

A simple bog garden could be the answer as they are packed with moisture-loving plants to encourage plenty of insects.

For any pond, I recommend finding a spot which gets plenty of sunshine.

Put foliage and flowering plants around the edges so you can enjoy an oasis of colour, and wildlife will have a safe place to shelter.

Frogs and toads feed on pests and ultimately maintain the healthy balance of your plot.

You can give them a helping hand by making sure that they can climb in and out of the water without fuss.

Water lilies are a beautiful addition. They will double up as a resting place for any passing dragonflies, too.

Before you know it, you will have created your very own eco-system.

From large ponds to small self-contained pebble fountains, there are no rules when it comes to building your own.

You can use a fixed pond liner or, if you would prefer to have the freedom to create the exact size and shape you want, choose a flexible plastic one.

For a full step-by-step guide to building a pond and attracting wildlife, visit diy.com.