Page 60 - Koi Net - On-Line Koi Magazine - Issue 17

5cm and ready for culling. The heat generated in the pots close to the pond, in another part there were pots
Banana Palms and other
exotic plants thrive in the polytunnel not only helps to grow the fry quickly but the of different types of Hosta.
humid atmosphere of plant life too. On one side a grape vine twisted along
a polytunnel, while horizontal wires and at one end a Campsis displays its Close to the house is the main pond, which has a
Sempervivums enjoy the capacity of around 6,000 gallons with many large high
blistering heat outside. drooping trumpets. Everywhere there were plants
growing adding another visual dimension to the area. quality Koi. Two bottom drains supply water to a Oase
drum filter which delivers water to a large bead filter, all
A couple of years ago Mick closed down his small this is housed below ground covered by decking. The
pond in another polytunnel and planted it with Banana water is returned to the pond below water level and over
Palms and other exotic plants reflecting his keen a purpose designed stainless steel shower which Mick
interest in horticulture. All around the garden there are designed to complement the informal style of his pond.
little gems to be found, a group of Sempervivums in
Large flat stones around one side of the pond make an
informal edging to the surrounding garden where
numerous different Maples and Pines create a pleasing
backdrop to the pond, while a large Gunnera benefits
from the luxury of regular soakings of wastewater from
A cool pathway along one An impressive female Sakai the filters. We were offered refreshments, then admired
side of the house with Fig Kohaku from the Dynamite Mick’s impressive Koi collection and looked around the
and Strawberry Trees are Ochiba bloodline.
underplanted with a garden, we stayed a while, then left to see Des and
variety of Hostas. Helen Harris’s pond and garden in Longfield.

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