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 what the temperature of your water is important. It lets you know what type of fish food to feed or not feed. We recommend feeding cool fish water when the temp is a steady 50F.
pH/Ammonia Kit and Dechlorinator for city water folks
As with the temperature of the water 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
For those with a UV filter you want to make sure that if you’re using your UV throughout the entire year that you actually need to get a bulb yearly. If you turn your UV off each winter than you can get 2 seasons/years out of it. While it may look like your UV is on and working, if your water is not clear then you need to replace your bulb.
Cool Season Fish Food
While the temperature warms up its great practice to get cool season fish food. 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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