Gardening with the RHS Tiny Wetlands, Big Impact: The Wildlife Power of Garden Ponds
Nov 13, 2025
Helen Bensted-Smith, from the RHS Wisley curatorial team, shares expert tips on creating wildlife ponds, emphasizing their importance for biodiversity. Emma McFarlane discusses the fascinating histories of the apothecary rose and chamomile, showcasing their medicinal uses. Duncan McLean offers guidance on selecting the right indoor plants for winter, highlighting popular choices like poinsettias and the RHS's commitment to peat-free sourcing. From pond construction to plant traditions, this discussion highlights the synergy between nature and home.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ponds Punch Above Their Weight
- Garden ponds collectively support more freshwater wildlife than streams, rivers or lakes alone.
- Small garden ponds can mimic wild ponds and make a real difference for urban biodiversity.
Wisley Ponds Shaped Helen's Expertise
- Helen led the creation and care of Wisley Hilltop's wildlife garden ponds from the start.
- Her hands-on experience shaped her search for better pond management guidance for gardeners.
Pick Location With Sun And Clean Runoff
- Choose a sunny, accessible site with nearby shelter like trees and shrubs for amphibians.
- Avoid low spots that collect nutrient-rich runoff from fertilised areas to reduce algae problems.