How to Keep Toads Out of My Lily Pond

Toads are instinctively drawn to ponds with flowers and greenery.

Outdoor gardens and landscaping can come in various forms. Water based gardening, such as koi or lily ponds, provide a tranquil and relaxing addition to your outdoor landscaping. Though lily ponds provide beauty and serenity, the design of water ponds attract animals and insects. If you have a problem with toads encroaching on your lily pond, you can use a few methods to keep them at bay.

Instructions

1. Install a low fence, two feet high and one foot underground, around the perimeter of the pond. Keep the holes of the fence small to prevent toads from squeezing through and getting in to the pond.

2. Add a water fountain or fish to the pond to keep water moving. Toads prefer stagnant water for hiding and thriving, and the addition of movement to the pond will keep toads away.

3. Remove all food sources on the ground in the area around the pond. Get rid of any dog or cat food in bowls that may be around, to prevent toads from seeking out the food and getting close to the pond.

4. Spray a salt water solution around the perimeter of the pond. Mix one part table salt to one part water and mix thoroughly. Spray the concrete area surrounding the pond to deter toads as the salt, once dry, will be uncomfortable for them to cross as the salt stings once hopped on.

5. Catch toads individually with a net and physically remove them from the property.

Tips & Warnings

• Insecticides will kill toads, however, the process is a slow one and you will need to recover and dispose of the deceased frogs promptly to prevent contamination of the pond through decomposition.

• Avoid spraying the salt water solution on any leaves or blooms of the lilies, to avoid killing the plantlife.

References

• English Gardening: Unwanted Visitors - How to Deter Frogs
• All About Frogs: Some Common Questions
• Florida Wildlife Extension: Frequently Asked Questions about Frogs and Toads