Why do so many pond owners have an aversion to trees? Clearly trees do offer advantages to the pond environment such as shade. Shade can be very important for both the water of your pond and also encouraging diversity in the area surrounding the pond.

Any pond without any shade will experience much more water temperature fluctuation when exposed to the full heat of the summer sun. This effect will be more evident the shallower the pond. By having some natural shade, your fish will benefit from being able to avoid the hotter areas and also, with restricted direct sunlight reaching the water’s surface, problems such as algal blooms will grow less virulently.

So what is the issue with trees? Quite simply, some trees, such as laburnum are poisonous to your pond. Some other trees such as laurel, yew and lime may also pose problems for your fish stock. In addition to the obvious problems caused by potential toxins, there is also a threat of tree roots compromising the pond liner. Whilst the above two could both be considered potential problems, the one guaranteed issue with having trees by your pond will be leaves falling in the water.

Leaves that are left in the pond water will prove to be a rich source of nutrients, especially during autumn leaf fall, this will represent a large addition of nutrients at exactly the time when the ponds eco-system is slowing and is less able to deal with them. Eventually, come spring, these stored nutrients will boost algal growth and pose potential problems. The only way to effectively manage this issue is to cover your pond with netting.

Trees do not have be avoided by the pond owner, but it is important to understand the additional demands on pond management that will be posed by having them.