Downs by the pond - for all your water garden needs
Home Page Services Products Pond Tips Gallery About Us Contact Us
Newsletter Sign up

Free tips
and News Letter.

Name:
Email:
         
Find Out More >>



Downs By The Pond
86663 Bailey Hill Road
Eugene, OR 97405
Phone: 541-521-7389
Email Us


Pond Tips

index

Problem Solving

  1. Green Water and Other Algae
  2. Leaks
  3. Predators
1.Green Water and Other Algae Top
Green water is one of the most common complaints we hear about ponds. Green water is caused by the bloom of microscopic one-celled algae- algae at it's most basic. String algae is a common problem in waterfalls and streams. It grows rapidly and can quickly get out of control. A number of factors can encourage the growth of algae. A few items to check are:
Overfeeding of fish: any food which is not consumed by the fish, or removed by a net, will drop to the bottom of the pond, it will decompose and become a source of nutrient for the algae. Only feed what can be consumed in 5 minutes.
Plants population: It is recommended that 50-60% of the pond surface be covered with plants. Especially important are oxygenators. All plants will compete with algae for any available nutrient in the pond.
Frequent water changes: Fighting green water by changing the water will only lead to increased green water problems. Fresh water contains many nutrients and minerals which will only help the algae to thrive.
Fish load: Overstocking of fish or lack of an adequate biological filter can lead to excess build up of ammonia and nitrate in the pond which in turn feeds the algae.
Low dissolved oxygen: A lack of oxygen caused by too little aeration can also contribute to algae problems by slowing down bacterial decomposition of nutrient producing organic waste.
As mentioned, ultraviolet sterilizers are very effective for killing algae spores of green water algae.
Fountec is a great product for string algae control in birdbaths, fountains and ponds with no fish. Because of the nature of the product, it will smother fish by coating their gill plates. It is safe for birds, dogs, cats and other animals.

2.Leaks Top
Ponds quite often appear to have leaks because of a noticeable water loss. In many instances, the real trouble lies in misdirected water in the waterfalls or stream or water lost to evaporation. Another problem may be the liner is folded too low or rocks may have settled causing the liner to sag.
Ways to identify the causes are:
Turn off all moving water in streams and falls. Fill the pond. Use a little lipstick or grease pencil to draw a small line on the liner or stone at the level of the water. Check in 12-24 hours to see if the water level has changed. If the water level is stable, you will know to look in the fall or stream.
Waterfalls and streams require a visible inspection. Turn on the pump and let the system run for several hours,longer if possible. You may now inspect for leaks by looking for noticeably soggy areas on the edges outside of the lining. You should also check for piles of debris such as leaves or algae which may be impeding the stream flow. In most circumstances you will find that either there is a great deal of splash or the liner has settled.
If a hole is found, it can be repaired using the seam tape as a patch. It is very important to clean the liner well and to place a firm backing behind the area of the liner to be patched. You can then firmly press the patch for the best adhesion.

3.Predators Top
Herons are lovely to behold, however they can e very frustrating for the fish keeper. A pond with fish should be at least 30 deep in some areas to help prevent heron attacks. Herons will not go into the water deeper than their knees because they cannot fly away quickly if threatened. Heron Decoys in natural colors seem to be more of a deterrent than bronze cranes, but either should be moved occasionally.
Raccoons can tear apart a pond quickly. Often they are looking for grubs in plants as well as the fish. Shelves that are dug at least 15-18 will help keep them from getting the fish from your pond, as they generally fish from the edges. A small electric fence is a good investment for around the pond.
Scarecrow sprinklers are helpful for both herons and raccoons. These sprinklers are motion activated and set off a short burst of water from the attached rain bird.
Pests
Aphids, which arrive in late spring or early summer are the main problem for aquatic plants. Aphids are attracted to the color yellow and it is important to remove yellow or yellowing leaves from water lilies and other plants. Removing these leaves has the additional benefit of making the pond look better, promoting new growth, and helping reduce decaying organic matter in the pond. Herbal Aphid Control (by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals) seems to work the best of the products on the market and is fish safe. Aphids can also be rinsed off the leaves so that the fish snack on them. In most cases this is not effective.
Mosquitoes are becoming more of a problem As mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, we encourage everyone to keep the water in their pond moving. Additionally, Gambusia (tiny mosquito larvae eating fish) or Mosquito Dunk can used effectively to help control this pest.

Services Products Pond Tips Gallery About Us Contact Us