Yes, plants on the edge of a pond will use some water to survive, just as all plants require water. However, the amount of water they wick away is typically minimal and not enough to cause constant refilling of the pond solely due to the plants' water consumption.
That said, some considerations should be noted:
- Certain landscape plants or trees with aggressive root systems near the pond's perimeter may grow roots that extend over the pond liner and into the water.
- These roots can act as a wick, drawing water from the pond and potentially causing a slow, steady loss of water.
- This water loss might resemble the symptoms of a small leak over time.
To mitigate this issue, it is essential to:
- Choose non-invasive plants for the edges of the pond.
- Monitor and manage the placement of larger trees or shrubs with extensive root systems to prevent them from encroaching on the pond liner.
- Regularly inspect the liner's edges and the area around the pond to ensure no roots are growing over or under the liner.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of unwanted water loss caused by surrounding plants.