Day 12: Connecting with nature to improve my wellbeing in the dark days of winter by taking a closer look at the Common Mare’s Tail (Hippuris vulgaris)
Today, I ventured out to in the cold still air wrapped up warm against the winter chill. It was dark and cold and I did not get home to very late this evening. It has been quite the day at work, I was tired to my bones, but I was determined to spend some time outside and continue my challenge of connecting with nature every day of December. The pond, created in lockdown (when my neighbours gifted me their old rigid plastic pond liner), has turned into a thriving little ecosystem, and tonight, I decided to focus on one of its most intriguing plants: the Common Mare’s Tail (Hippuris vulgaris). I did not plant any Common Mare’s Tail. It is self-seeded in the pond. It is supporting the pondlife I have including newts and toads that I have seen in the front garden.
What is Common Mare’s Tail?
Common Mare’s Tail is a remarkable aquatic plant native to the UK. Known for its upright, feathery stems, it thrives in shallow water, creating a natural habitat for insects and small aquatic creatures. This plant is often mistaken for horsetail, a different species entirely, but the two are unrelated.
One of the reasons I am really interested by this plant is its dual life: part of it thrives above the water, reaching for the light, while the submerged stems and leaves provide shelter and oxygen to underwater life. It is perfect for my really deep larger (actual pond I intended to be there) wildlife pond – which is situated to one side of my wildlife garden. I have ensured that it has effective shelves for wildlife to get out if they fall in. I have also placed some space roofing tiles I had around the edge – these are really rough and so are easy for vertebrates to grip and get out of the pond. Or grip whilst dipping down for a drink.
A Closer Look at Mare’s Tail in The Larger Pond in my Wildlife Garden
This evening, armed with my now trusty torch, I took the time to study the Mare’s Tail in the larger pond (the actual pond that I put in place in 2020 – not my accidental mini-pod). It has beautifully slender green stems, reaching up above the water’s surface. They looked almost like tiny forests, and I found myself imagining the myriad of invertebrate species that might take shelter within their leafy fronds.
Beneath the surface, the Mare’s Tail played an equally important role. Its submerged leaves extended like delicate filigree into the water, creating an intricate network that offered protection for small larvae and microorganisms. Creating micro-niches and increasing the biodiversity of the pond and of course my wildlife garden.
I also noticed that the plant seemed to be thriving despite the cold and stormy weather. Mare’s Tail is an evergreen, which means it retains its lush greenery even in winter—a cheerful reminder of the endurance and resilience of life in my garden during the dark winter days.
The Importance of Mare’s Tail for Pond Ecosystems & Increasing Biodiversity
After my closer inspection, I researched Mare’s Tail and discovered just how beneficial it is for ponds. Especially, the kind I have in the front garden. It is a narrow deep rigid plastic pond liner. The water needs a good oxygenator. Here are a few fascinating facts I learned:
Oxygenation: Mare’s Tail helps oxygenate the water, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy pond environment.
Shelter: The submerged leaves provide cover for small fish, amphibians, and insect larvae.
Erosion Prevention: Its strong roots help to stabilize the edges of ponds, preventing soil erosion.
Natural Water Filter: By absorbing excess nutrients, it helps keep pond water clear and free from harmful algae blooms.
Why Connecting with Mare’s Tail Felt Special
I found myself mesmerized by this unassuming plant. Watching it under the torchlight, I felt grounded and at peace. The way it stood tall above the water’s surface, despite the wild weather, inspired me. Like the Mare’s Tail, I reminded myself that I too could stand resilient against life’s storms.
Taking the time to observe and appreciate this little marvel also reminded me of the interconnectedness of nature. This one plant plays a vital role in its ecosystem, supporting both the flora and fauna around it.
Tips for Adding Mare’s Tail to Your Own Garden Pond
If you’re considering adding Mare’s Tail to your own pond, here are a few tips:
Planting: Place it in shallow water or in a submerged pot to control its spread.
Maintenance: It’s low-maintenance but may need occasional thinning.
Wildlife Benefits: Expect more insects, toads, and even birds to visit your pond as they’re drawn to the habitat it creates. If you are lucky a hedgehog!
Finding Joy in the Small Things
The pond has helped me to reconnect with nature and focus on the beauty of the moment. I was exhausted this evening, but out in the garden on my knees (trying not to drop my torch in the pond) I was lost in the moment (my stressful day forgotten). In the crazy busyness of life, it’s easy to overlook the small things, but even a plant like Mare’s Tail can remind us of the endurance and resilience of nature.
Have you taken the time to connect with nature today? If not, I encourage you to step outside and notice the intricate details around you—it might just make your day a little brighter. Bring light to the dark days of your winter.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever spotted Common Mare’s Tail in your pond. I’d love to hear about your experiences!