Maintaining a Backyard Pond

Water Testing

Test your water. Buy a pH kit to be sure your pond does not contain high levels of ammonia or chlorine. Plant fertilizers and pesticides can seriously negatively impact your pond water's health; avoid using these products, choosing organic methods of nearby crop production and control to keep the ecosystem strong and in balance. Use a biological filter system with a re-circulating pump to keep the water clear.

Feeding Fish

Do not overstock your pond. Too many fish create excess waste and food that create nitrogen, feeding algae. While some algae is normal, too much can make the pond scummy. Do not feed fish when temperatures fall below 50 degrees F. Do not stock your pond with exotic fish if you are located very near an open body of water, as they can become invasive species, crowding out native populations, should they migrate.

Plant Debris

Clean the pond regularly of debris from plants in and above the pond. Use a net to skim fallen leaves from the ponds surface. Prune plants that decay when they have reached the end of their life cycle.

Autumn Cleanup

When temperatures cool in autumn, you should consider using a shop vac to clean the sludge from the bottom of your pond. Remove the fish temporarily for the cleaning. Remove the potted plants. Drain water from the pond; use it to water perennial garden beds. Scrub the sides of the pond clean using non-toxic cleanser.

Properly maintaining your backyard pond can keep your home looking beautiful for years to come.

emperatures, ease of maintenance, and beauty under a variety of conditions.