Seasonal landscape pond maintenance is crucial for a flourishing water feature.
With these tips, your pond will impress every month of the year.
Each season requires different steps to ensure your pond ecosystem is healthy and adds picturesque value to your yard.
Credit: Pond in backyard
Essential Elements of a Landscape Pond
A well-made landscape pond has a few essential elements.
How Often Does a Landscape Pond Need Maintenance?
It seems counterintuitive, but a large landscape pond typically requires less maintenance than a small one.
Credit: Pond in backyard
Smaller ponds are more prone to fluctuations in ecology and chemistry.
Locate and patch any leaks using a pond repair kit.
All landscape pond maintenance routines must include this process to prevent ongoing water loss.
Water Maintenance
Reinstall the pump and filter; replace them if necessary.
Skim leaves and debris to help prevent toxic gases.
Add oxygenating aquatic bunch plants to increase the water’s oxygen level.
Credit: Pond in backyard
Divide and replantwater lilies, lotus, and marsh plants.
Fish Maintenance
Begin feeding fish using a high-carbohydrate food to help them with increased activity.
When water is required, add large amounts rarely and small amounts often.
Test the water chemistry weekly using a kit for ammonia, chloramines, and chlorine.
An excessive amount of these chemicals will kill fish.
Check filters and pump intakes weekly for clogs; clean as needed.
Remove any submerged plants that appear to be dying.
Controlplant peststo maintain healthy flora;control algaewith a long-handled bristle brush, rake, or pole.
Fertilize potted plants monthly with aquatic-plant fertilizer tablets.
Add afountainor bubbler to increase aeration for fish; hot water can be oxygen-depleted.
Routinely check fish for sores or unusual behavior.
Secure the netting with bricks or rocks.
Disconnect the water filter and pumps; drain and store inside.
Drain water lines and fountains, using a siphon if necessary.
Reduce fish feeding and stop completely when the water temperature decreases to 50oF.
Digestion in fish slows in the winter, and undigested food in their guts can kill them.
Fish should survive over winter in ponds with a depth of at least 18 inches.
Aeration is required to ensure your fish remain healthy during hibernation.
