How-To
Below is our list of must haves to get your pond ready and in tip top shape for the year.
Bacteria
Beneficial pond bacteria are responsible for maintaining crystal clear healthy water; break down organic waste – in the form of sludge, and breaks down ammonia – from fish waste.
Thermometer
Knowing the temperature of your water is important. It lets you know when to begin feeding your fish and what type of fish food is suitable for that temperature. We recommend feeding fish all-season or cool-season fish food when the temperature is a steady 50° F or above. Growth-plus koi food is recommended for temperatures that are between 60° F-65° F.
pH/Ammonia Kit and Dechlorinator for city water folks
It is also important to know where your pH and ammonia stand in your pond. If it’s too high or too low it can harm and even kill your fish. Koi and goldfish do best in a pH of between 7.0-8.6 and an ammonia reading of 0. If you use city water, it’s extremely important that you use dechlorinator whenever you add water to your pond.
UV Bulb
If you have a UV filter that is used throughout the entire year, you will need to get a replacement bulb every year. If you turn your UV off each winter, then you should be able to get two seasons/years out of it.
Please note: if your water is not running clear, then it is time to replace your bulb, even if it looks like the UV is on and working.
Cool-Season/All-Season Fish Food
Cool Season/All-Season is a top performer in any climate but is especially well suited for use in northern
climates, cooler weather, and during late fall, winter and early spring seasons. This formula can be used at any time as long as the water temperature is above 50° F. There is less protein which means less waste and ammonia in the water.
Net
For those who have fish and are thinking about cleaning out the pond a net is vital! You want to get a net that is going to safely capture your fish.
Fertilizer for Plants
Some plants that are in and around the pond need fertilizer yearly to keep them healthy and growing.
Pond Cleanings
Also don’t forget about pond cleaning! Now is the time to sign up if you haven’t yet. This also includes those with fish.
What does a pond cleaning include?
- Drain and clean the pond and refill
- Check water quality, PH and ammonia levels
- Check fish health
- Check aquatic plants and move to the proper level, fertilize, and divide if necessary
- Check the pump and clean the volute
- Check the skimmer
- Start the biological filter
- Start the UV Sterilizer
- Check the auto-fill valve, lights, and other plumbing.
To schedule an appointment please email info@fallingwaterdesigns.com or call us at (360)863-1400.
Are you a do-it-yourselfer kind of person? Check out our How-To video on Pond Cleaning 101.
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