Temperatures are rising and winter is receding. Now is the time to investigate the edges and depths of your pond, pulling out last season’s collection of dead leaves and pond muck. But wait — don’t throw away your pond slime. This is a luxury for your garden; a perfect ingredient for home-made compost.
First, clean your pond. Yes, it’s a dirty job, but it’s worth it: both your pond and your garden will thank you. Check for leaves that may have settled to the bottom of the pond, and siphon or net them out. Groom the edges by removing any dead foliage and leaves that could make their way into the water. Trim back any overgrown pond plants or neighboring plants and shrubs.
Got a big pile of muck and waste? Good. Add all of this to your garden compost bin or pile. If you don’t have one, now is the perfect time to begin. Simply pick an out-of-the-way spot and pile up your plant waste. As spring turns to summer, continue to add your garden clippings and vegetable waste from your kitchen. If the mood strikes, you can turn the pile every now and then with a pitchfork. Or, if you like, just sit back and wait. Even an ignored compost heap will turn into black within two years. If you take the time to turn your pile, you could have compost by the end of the summer.
No interest in a compost heap? No problem. Simply spread your pond ooze and muck around the bases of your favorite trees and shrubs. It’s not quite as nutritious as mature compost, but your plants will still get plenty of nutrients from the pond gunk.
Tags: compost, fall leaves, spring cleaning