Keeping your pond clean can help manage bacteria, algae, and help your water stay clear. Harmful bacteria, like E. Coli, and parasites, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium, can make your pond dangerous even if you don’t drink the water intentionally.
This is why it’s important to maintain your pond. Not only does it look and smell better; but it will also be safer. Here are some tips to keep your outdoor pond clean and safe.
Control Algae
Algae can be beneficial but can also be a big problem if it is let go. These plants are food for fish, so you should not remove them all. You can also add plants to help control algae.
You can use algaecides to control algae if it starts to grow out of control. You can also remove the plants physically with a rake. You can also use a sterilizer or ultraviolet water purifier to control these plants.
Be careful when using any chemicals that you do not kill your fish or other plants when keeping a clear pond.
Cleanout the Pond
You should remove leaves as they fall in your pond. Use a skimmer net to remove leaves and other debris.
If you have sludge, use a pond vacuum and grab the mud at the bottom. Be sure to leave a little to support algae and other plant growth.
Rinse off any filters or other objects in your pond regularly.
Manage Ice in the Winter
When the pond’s surface freezes, the water beneath gets limited oxygen and the temperature starts to lower. You can prevent dangerous freezing for your aquatics by adding a de-icer or floating a ball on the surface, or you could install a heater.
You can also limit the damage from ice by floating wood on the pond. The wood will protect the pond and absorb ice pressure. Be sure to add an air hole.
Aerate the Pond
You should make sure your aquatics get the proper amount of oxygen. You can do this by adding a fountain, bubbler, or waterfall. These devices will improve air movement through the water.
During the summer, you should use an air pump to prevent stagnant water. Be sure to clean the filter and remove any debris.
Check the Water Chemistry
You can perform tests every now and then to detect any water chemistry changes. If you have changes, use detoxifiers and alkaline solutions to control toxic and acidic conditions respectively. Water chemistry can be altered by decaying plants or excess fish food.
Manage Nearby Plants
If there are trees nearby, you don’t want too many leaves to fall into the pond. Use a trap net and a filter mat below to collect smaller debris. Prune any branches back that start reach out over the pond. This shade can also prevent light from getting to the pond plants, which prevents them from growing and getting full photosynthesis.
Enjoy Your Outdoor Pond
When you follow these steps, you can enjoy your outdoor pond and not have to worry. Pond maintenance is worth the effort. If you stay on top of it, the pond will be easier to clean.
Looking for other ideas for your lawn and garden? Check out other articles on our site to help you keep the rest of your yard looking as great as your pond.