"My Final Update: A Cottage Garden Retreat"

Today, I am thrilled to share the transformation of my little water feature, a serene pond that now serves as a micro habitat for the delightful creatures of nature. After much contemplation and love, I decided to embark on an adventure to reimagine this peaceful oasis.

With great care, I dismantled the previous setup, getting down to the bare earth. Moving and lifting these heavy bricks, did wonders for my slipped and torn disc as well as my  excruciating sciatica! 

However living on my own, I wanted the job done. So I had to push through the pain. I spent hours leveling the ground, creating a firm foundation reminiscent of a charming English garden. 

The journey began anew with the careful construction of a layered cake, alternating between soft underlay and protective pond liner, ensuring that my little pond would not leak and remain a safe haven for wildlife.

As I inspected the basin, I found imperfections—tiny holes that had allowed water to escape. It was clear a fresh start was necessary, and my love for this project compelled me to rebuild from the ground up.

As I embarked on my latest journey to create a beautiful pond feature in my garden, I reminisced about my previous attempts. 

Upon removing the old pond liner, I discovered that those sturdy bricks I had initially used had caused tiny tear holes, leading to unwelcome leaks. It was a gentle reminder of the importance of choosing materials wisely.

This time, I sought to embrace a more harmonious and delicate approach. I opted for charming plastic pots and the lovely square baskets that my pond plants had originally arrived in. This thoughtful selection ensured that my liner would remain untouched, allowing the pond to flourish in its serene beauty.

Gone were the heavy bricks and stones; I wanted my pond to reflect the cozy and inviting spirit of a traditional cottage garden. With every choice I made, I aimed to cultivate a natural oasis, where the beauty of flowers and the soothing sound of water would harmonize, inviting all to pause and revel in nature’s artistry.

Gone are the harsh bricks and stones that previously marred the charm of my garden. Instead, I opted for an inviting bed of washed gravel and smooth pebbles at the bottom, creating a gentle environment that nurtures rather than harms. 

In my quest for beauty and function, I re-potted each plant from their stark square plastic containers into more graceful, rounded pots. I scoured my garden for charming old pots and soft plastic that could support my pond plants at just the right water depth, fostering a natural elegance.

To secure the solar-powered pump in its appointed place, I used a simple cable tie—my one nod to practicality amidst the enchantment of nature. This modest stone, resting atop a carefully arranged layer of pots, adds a touch of whimsy without overwhelming the delicate beauty of my garden. 

As I take a moment to pause, I am filled with hope. Tonight, my cozy pond feature awaits, and I pray for a peaceful slumber for my little ecosystem. Will I awaken to the gentle splash of the fountain, vibrant plants nestled in their places, and the water level just as I left it?

I am aware that the black lining is visible beneath the intricate design, calling for a future adornment. Perhaps tomorrow, I’ll venture out to find charming natural elements to soften the edges and add to the rustic appeal. For now, I am embracing the simplicity and beauty of this tranquil spot, which has become a haven for wildlife and a serene retreat for my spirit.

Let’s hope for a blissful night under the stars and a morning filled with the delightful sounds of nature. Here’s to the journey ahead in my cottage garden paradise!

Warmly, Lindsay Blair 

Tuesday 20th May 2025