From Booklist
A pond's tranquil surface of lily pads and lotus blossoms can conceal a surprisingly fecund realm teeming with fish, frogs, turtles, and other aquatic creatures--if you know what to do. In her latest book, acclaimed water gardening expert Nash focuses on the aesthetic and environmental roles these creatures play, and, by thoroughly detailing physical characteristics and culture requirements, plans habitats best suited to each species. From recognizing and treating health problems to understanding the importance of water quality and filtration, this encyclopedic guide is geared to maximizing your success. Whether you are adding fish to an existing pond or planning a new water garden with animal life in mind, Nash's logical approach will increase your enthusiasm for aquatic gardening. But should you feel like a fish out of water when it comes to pond gardening, never fear: with Nash's expert instruction, you'll learn how to create a water feature that enhances the lives of those who enjoy it while satisfying the needs of those who inhabit it. Carol Haggas
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Book Description
“Warm and wonderful advice.”—Ponds Magazine. “A pond’s tranquil surface of lily pads and lotus blossoms can conceal a surprisingly fecund realm teeming with fish, frogs, turtles, and other aquatic creatures—if you know what to do. Nash’s encyclopedic guide is geared to maximizing your success.”—Booklist.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Build your own backyard pond and then bring it to life with an array of fascinating wildlife. Will it be goldfish or koi swimming in an environment that makes it easy for them to thrive? Frogs, toads, and turtles delighting in their habitat? Dragonflies, butterflies, and birds that are attracted to the water from the air? Renowned authority Helen Nash ensures your success by providing basic guidelines that are simple to follow, from designing the pond to maintaining it to keeping your "pets" in good health. Add peace and tranquility to your garden by building a pond where fish and other creatures will flourish. Because fish are fascinating to watch, you may want to create a setting to suit a particular species. Goldfish are the most common inhabitants, while koi are popular because of their large size and limitless range of color. Familiarize yourself with them, and plan a habitat that satisfies their needs. Will it be a rigid, preformed one or the flexible lined variety? Find out how to install both. Perform seasonal maintenance tasks that will keep your pond -- and everything in it -- fit.

Tending to the water quality will keep your aquatic pets safe. Considerations such as the nitrogen cycle and algae control are explained in terms a novice can understand. Then decide which filtration system is right for you. They range from submersible pumps to certain types of plant.

The fish are settled in and after a little time passes you might notice some odd behavior. Look up how this relates to their health and how to treat it. If they're gasping at the surface, for example, it could be due to low dissolved oxygen or pH, or the presence of ammonia or nitrate. You're not limited to keeping only fish! All kinds of turtles can be part of your environment -- learn their feeding requirements and how to make them feel at home. Putting in a pond can encourage birds to visit -- often ones not seen before in your backyard. Accommodate feathered friends by giving them their own water features for drinking and bathing. And see how to keep predators away. When there's life in the water -- and lives around it that share in its attraction -- the pleasure you derive from your pond will only increase.

SYNOPSIS

Delight in a water garden thriving with plants, birds, and other animals-with the help of one of the world's experts on the subject.

From choosing the right fish for your pond type and climate to water chemistry basics, this beautifully photographed manual guides you every step of the way.

". not only the place to start your project but also something to keep open at all times during construction

and maintenance.A thorough, exacting book on creating ponds for fish and other wildlife."-Atlanta Journal