Maintaining a backyard pond may be just as hard as the construction process but with a proper regime, it will become second nature. If you fail to maintain your pond, you may end up with an excessive build up of harsh bacteria, you may not be able to support local wildlife or ecosystems local to your pond, and your pond may ultimately end up being unappealing. If you want to enjoy your pond, you must maintain it regularly.
What does pond maintenance entail?
Most ponds are filled with dirt and debris. Some leaves can even emit gasses that are toxic to your ecosystems, meaning it’s extremely important to clear them from your pond with a skimmer. You may also need to use a pond vacuum to remove some sludge as small amounts are needed for the growth of algae.
Pond maintenance also includes managing the nearby plants. Falling leaves can negatively affect the climate of your pond which is why you may want to use a trap net to prevent them from entering the pond. It may also be beneficial to trim trees and shrubbery that may be hazardous to your pond. In addition, shade from trees will also block the natural light which is needed for aquatic plants to grow and flourish. The summer climate is perfect for planting new aquatic plants because the weather allows for rapid plant growth.
Keep algae under control
Although algae growth is beneficial to the health of your pond, it’s important to control the rate of their growth. Algae is a source of food for wildlife so you can’t eliminate it all, however, it’s important to keep it under control. One method for controlling the growth of algae entails introducing plants that use large amounts of nutrients. Additionally, you can use cover plants to block sunlight from getting to the algae.
If your algae are flourishing, you may want to use a rake to remove some of it from your pond. You can also use algaecides which will turn the water black and deter sunlight. Algaecides kill existing algae and are safe for aquatic animals and plants.
Maintain consistent water levels
An important part of pond maintenance is checking the water levels. It’s very important to continuously inspect your pond so you’re able to repair any leaks. If the ground around your pond is wet, this means you have a leak. To repair leaks, you must drain the water and repair the pond with the appropriate materials such as rocks, soil and concrete.
Remember, you may need to contact a professional to repair the leak. If your pond doesn’t have enough water, there may not be enough oxygen for your plants and aquatic wildlife to flourish. You will need to top off the water with clean water that is not tap water. Tap water may be easily accessible but it may also be extremely detrimental to your ecosystem.
Take your climate into consideration
In the winter, it’s crucial to maintain the health of your pond. Ice is a huge problem in the winter as it freezes solid and does not allow oxygen to penetrate your pond which will ultimately deter the process of aquatic plant growth. You can prevent this by using a de-icer or applying small amounts of heat to the surface to break the ice. It’s important to make sure that you’re not using mass amounts of pressure to break the ice as it may disturb your aquatic wildlife. Depending on the size of your pond, you may require a small heater to prevent ice build-up.
Healthy and happy ponds require consistent maintenance
No matter the size, your pond will require maintenance if you aren’t sure where to start, it’s best to consult a professional. Our team of experienced experts would be happy to help you maintain your pond so you can enjoy your beautiful ecosystem without worry, or hesitation.