Ducks in garden

Discussion in 'Livestock' started by Russel Sprout, Apr 5, 2010.

  1. Russel Sprout

    Russel Sprout Apprentice Gardener

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    I have 2 small ducks and since having them I havent seen a slug or snail in 2 years. :gnthb:
    My question concerns the water I frequently pump out of their pond. They poop alot in it.
    Has anyone tried using this water to feed plants , or would it be to strong and kill plants, Im on a water meter so it would be good if I didnt have to throw it down the drain.
     
  2. Sussexgardener

    Sussexgardener Gardener

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    Probably too strong and ammoniac (is that a word?) if fresh, but then again if it's been lurking and mixing with water, then I don't know...

    Could you sieve and store it for a while - I know chicken droppings break down quite quicklt, especially when mixed with the hemp based bedding?
     
  3. wiseowl

    wiseowl FRIENDLY ADMIN Staff Member

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    Hi Russel Sprout I use my Fish pond water on my Flowers/Shrubs,,so I would think that it should be OK,But I wouldn't use it on anything That I had to eat(Vegetables)but I would wait until one of our other friends who maybe know more about this subject can answer your question,ie Nitrogen content etc:)
     
  4. Sussexgardener

    Sussexgardener Gardener

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    Be careful if you are emptying the duck pond water down the storm drain - this is only meant for rainwater and the like. You need to use the waste drain, that takes proper sewage so it will be treated accordingly.
     
  5. Russel Sprout

    Russel Sprout Apprentice Gardener

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    My rainwater gulleys lead to the same manhole as sewage
     
  6. NatalieB

    NatalieB Gardener

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    I have used the occasional watering can full from our duck pond on the garden. I have used it on anything other than root veges - last year i used it in the greenhouse for tomatoe plants, cucumbers and peppers - as that's what was growing in the greenhouse up back where the duck pond is. To be honest, I never thought about the nitrogen level in it :oops: but can't say I had any problems. I've eaten the vege and am still here........
     
  7. Dave W

    Dave W Total Gardener

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    Don't for goodness sake waste it. It will be nitrogen rich and great for feeding leafy veg.
     
  8. Russel Sprout

    Russel Sprout Apprentice Gardener

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    Great, thats what I was hoping for. Guess I'll have to experiment a bit to find a strength that doesnt overwhelm my plants. Thanks all.
     
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