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Establishing a buffer area around your pond will benefit both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. A permanent border of vegetation can reduce runoff and provide food and cover for a wide variety of species.

Four separate planting zones have to be considered when creating a border for a pond. Different species of forbs, ferns, grasses, sedges, rushes, trees and shrubs thrive in different moisture levels. Ensuring the species you choose is tolerant of the moisture level in the zone you plant it in is critical.

The first three zones require aquatic and wetland plants. Plants that prefer a drier habitat should be planted in the fourth zone.

After your border has been established, plants may adjust to the natural conditions that are present and migrate to the zone most suitable for their growth requirements.

Planting zone 1. The first zone is below the water level in the aquatic zone. These plants grow within the lake.

Planting zone 2. This zone exists between the water level and ordinary high watermark. Plant species grown here must be tolerant of frequent water level changes and being flooded for days at a time and being dry for short periods of time.

Planting zone 3. The third planting zone is above the high water mark where the soil is consistently moist. Wetland plants that can handle some flooding should be chosen for planting zone 3.

Planting zone 4. Native plants that prefer dry conditions should be chosen for this upland planting zone.

Other options: Bog birch, eastern cottonwood, swamp rose and sandbar willow.

Other options: Tall tickseed, cut-leaved coneflower, Ohio goldenrod and Riddle’s goldenrod.

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