gravel and railway sleepers slope

[jimmypondturtle]

I was wondering how to make a slope in my pond to encourage wildlife and increase planting variety. With the pond being already built with straight sides I thought I could make one out of gravel or sand but figured it would slip. Should I add railway sleepers at the bottom to stop it from falling? If you think anything is flawed about this plan let me know.

 

[Bluerooster]

I think I would avoid crossties, (sleepers) in the water, unless they are of some masonry type material.

 

[mrsclem]

If your liner is not installed yet then that would work but not once liner is in.

 

[jimmypondturtle]

I think I would avoid crossties, (sleepers) in the water, unless they are of some masonry type material.

why would sleepers be bad for the pond

 

[mrsclem]

I'm not sure about the UK but I know here railroad ties (sleepers) are treated with chemicals.

 

[Panzer13]

I'm not sure about the UK but I know here railroad ties (sleepers) are treated with chemicals.

Yes, creosote, which is very toxic. Also not sure how you keep them from floating either.

 

[Ronfire]

There are cement railway sleepers, hope this is the one she meant

 

[Bluerooster]

why would sleepers be bad for the pond

As mentioned earlier, "sleepers" or AKA here in U.S. "crossties" are in this country made of wood (generaly) and treated with creosote, or some other chemical means, which may be detrimental to the health of the pond.
However, there are some, made of concrete, which may well be fine for use in the pond.
Also, if you plan to place the sleepers under the liner, it won't matter, as the liner will keep the water and sleepers seperated.

 

[Panzer13]

As mentioned earlier, "sleepers" or AKA here in U.S. "crossties" are in this country made of wood (generaly) and treated with creosote, or some other chemical means, which may be detrimental to the health of the pond.
However, there are some, made of concrete, which may well be fine for use in the pond.
Also, if you plan to place the sleepers under the liner, it won't matter, as the liner will keep the water and sleepers seperated.

Pond is already built I don't think putting under the liner is an option. Personally I would use Dundee blocks.