I wish I could build a pond in my tiny garden, but with a huge Gleditsia (Honeylocust) tree planted on the fence-line, yikes - it would be a lot of work to keep clean and too shady to attempt. I love watching fish swim about and see living plants grow in water. Relaxes me.
My compromise:
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| Found this great flask/terrarium at Pier 1 Imports. Made in Spain, it's quite durable - with rather thick glass (weighs a ton without the water), I thought it was the perfect choice for my new fresh water pets: "Goldie"& 'Gorbie". I've seen other terrarium style glass bowls and such but all made from glass too delicate for outside. This one is perfect. |
The small spouted neck will prevent unwanted animals and birds from attempting to grab my fish. Big enough to provide air, to access and clean.
I've added two fresh-water, living plants:
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| Hornwort - ferny plant and Duckweed - lime green butterfly floaters |
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Both plants will oxygenate the water and Goldfish eat Duckweed, when nothing else is available. (Great back-up food source for weekend getaways).
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| Portable enough so that I can take it inside come any change in weather. Still need to find a perfect stand but for now, it nestles into my planters. |
Because Hortwort floats, best to get sinking Goldfish food. That way the fish don't have to tangle and fight with plant life.
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| To help clean the terrarium, this little fresh water snail will help a lot. |
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| I chose goldfish for their tough ability to withstand temperature ranges and for their colouration. 'Goldie' stands out quite well, to give visual interest. |
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| Was glad to find 'Gorbie' (named after Mikhail Gorbachev :) isn't he/she cute? |
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| Best friends. |
This would be great for condo/apartment balconies too.
