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Backyard Koi Pond Maintenance | Rochester New York | NY|  For many Rochester (NY) homeowners, a backyard koi pond is a beautiful and peaceful addition to their landscape. However, some pond owners may find themselves facing a range of issues, from algae blooms and water quality issues, to difficulty keeping their fish healthy. If you’re having trouble maintaining your koi pond, it may be due to the way the pond was built or designed. At Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls, we understand the challenges that come with owning a koi pond. We also know that many pond owners may not be aware of the underlying causes of their maintenance problems. So, we’ve compiled a list of common koi pond issues, and what you can do to solve them naturally.
Solution: Plant aquatic plants that absorb algae forming nutrients. Don’t overfeed your fish and additionally, a high-quality biological filtration system can help to remove excess nutrients from the water that may be feeding the algae. Draining and cleaning the pond annually is also recommended.
Solution: If you’re experiencing water quality issues, you may need to install a new biological filtration system, additional aeration, plants and/or make changes to the way your pond is structured. Do not overfeed or have too many fish. Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls can help you identify the cause of the problem and provide a tailored solution that will work for you.
Solution: To keep your fish healthy, it’s important to have a proper filtration system in place. The benefits of adding a waterfall go beyond aesthetic appeal. Adding a waterfall to a pond is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy pond exogen levels. A waterfall can provide an additional source of biological filtration for your pond, promoting healthy growth and cleanliness. At Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls, we are dedicated to helping pond owners solve these and other common problems. We can design and build a new pond that will meet your specific needs, or make changes to your existing pond to improve its performance and beauty. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE
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12 Reasons To Upgrade Your Pond Filtration In Rochester New York (NY)  Are you having pond water clarity issues or would you like to make life easier as far as taking care of your pond is concerned? Here are a few issues that we have resolved by upgrading or adding a new filtration system to an existing pond:
When Is The Best Time To Update My Pond?The best time to update an existing pond is while it is drained and cleaned. After making the necessary adjustments, the pond will have to be cleaned anyway. If you have any fish, Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will safely remove and store them in holding tanks while the work is getting done. Your Water Feature Deserves The Best Care Possible
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will ensure your pond is running as smoothly as the day it was installed. That way, you can enjoy the tranquility afforded by a water garden without the hassle of maintenance responsibilities. Some of Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls maintenance services include:
Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE Most Common Pond - Water Feature Problems We've Had To Fix | Rochester New York | NY  Would you like to save a lot of money, time and headaches on your new project? Of course, who wouldn't right? Over the past 20+ years customers have come to us with all kinds of water feature problems throughout the Rochester New York area and beyond. An improperly designed waterfall can cause a great deal of water loss, or it may just look unnatural and need a face lift or rejuvenation. It's sad but true, our primary business is refurbishing and maintaining existing ponds to make them function properly. Some of these ponds installed by other "professional" pond installers or landscapers leave little to be desired, and loads of problems that drive people crazy and force them to look for help. If you are thinking to hire a professional, please be sure to research your contractor first. This could save a lot of frustration down the road. We've been hired numerous times to re-do a pond that was recently built. Water features are meant to help you relax and enjoy them, not get you frustrated.  SOME OF OUR MOST COMMON WATER GARDEN ISSUES THAT WE HAVE HEARD OVER THE LAST 20+ YEARS
Your Water Feature Deserves The Best Care Possible
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will ensure your pond is running as smoothly as the day it was installed. That way, you can enjoy the tranquility afforded by a water garden without the hassle of maintenance responsibilities. Some of Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls maintenance services include:
Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE 10 Reasons For Cleaning Your Pond Or Water Feature In Rochester New York (NY)  There are several reasons to clean your pond. Let's talk about some of them.
Your Water Feature Deserves The Best Care Possible
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls will ensure your pond is running as smoothly as the day it was installed. That way, you can enjoy the tranquility afforded by a water garden without the hassle of maintenance responsibilities. Some of Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls maintenance services include:
Some Helpful Links:
RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCE Clean Out Decaying Aquatic Plants From Your Pond|Rochester|new York|NY Summer in Rochester & Western NY can be brutal with intense heat, high humidity & scorching sun. Backyard fish ponds become susceptible to algae bloom & water problems. Make time to clear out decaying lily pads and other aquatic plants in your pond to help keep algae growth to a minimum in your water garden.  Some Helpful Links:RENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCEIs Wetland Filtration Right For My Koi Pond|Rochester|NY|New York|near Me  Having water clarity problems or thinking about upgrading your Rochester NY pond? You may want to consider adding a wetland filter. A constructed wetland or bog filter functions similar to biological filter (waterfall filter) except there is an up-flow system that recirculates the water underneath and a shallow, plant filled area with gravel to help bacteria colonization. It mimics a natural wetland and provides crystal clear water quality. If wetland filtration was a car, think of it as the Tesla. The addition of a properly installed constructed (bog) wetlands will make any pond look natural and beautiful. Did you know more plant and animal life is associated with natural wetlands than any ecosystem in the world? By adding a wetland you are not only improving your ponds health but also adding to the diversity of nature. Constructed wetlands can be installed on new water gardens or added to an existing pond! Check Out The Water Clarity Of A Wetland Filtration System On This 6' Deep Koi Pond!
Some Helpful LinksRENOVATIONS | INSTALLATIONS | MAINTENANCEAlgae Problems|Is There Too Much Algae?|Rochester|New York|NY 
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Completely removing algae from the pond ecosystem isn’t good though. Some algae need to be present to filter your pond, aerate it, and feed the fish.
Doing a spring pond cleaning we can remove the debris and sludge from your pond, minimize algae, and get your pond back to its original state in no time!
Act now to clear your pond of an algae infestation, and enjoy your own oasis.
Act now to clear your pond of an algae infestation, and enjoy your own oasis.
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If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) (585) 442-6373
Is There Evaporation In My Fish Pond During The Winter|Rochester|NY|New York|Near Me
If you decide to leave your Rochester (NY) water feature or pond turned on during the winter, you will lose some water due to evaporation but not as much as in the summertime.
Keep an eye on the amount of water of your fish pond, running water is still susceptible to evaporation.
If your koi pond, pondless or water feature are running during the winter, your main concern is to ensure there is enough water for the pump to operate properly. If there is not adequate water, the pump could burn out.
Keep an eye on the amount of water of your fish pond, running water is still susceptible to evaporation.
If your koi pond, pondless or water feature are running during the winter, your main concern is to ensure there is enough water for the pump to operate properly. If there is not adequate water, the pump could burn out.
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Check Your Stream & Waterfall For Ice Dams
it’s possible that the ice buildup or leaves can form dams that could divert your pond basin water out of the pond.
Top off your water feature as needed and make sure the water goes into the pond and not just on top of the ice where more ice can accumulate.
You can add water to your pond with a garden hose running from inside the house or using a bucket and multiple trip system.
Top off your water feature as needed and make sure the water goes into the pond and not just on top of the ice where more ice can accumulate.
You can add water to your pond with a garden hose running from inside the house or using a bucket and multiple trip system.
Add Beauty To Your Garden During The Winter
If you keep your water feature running during the frozen months of winter, you’ll enjoy the beautiful ice sculptures that form on them. The ice will continue to change shapes throughout the entire winter and look beautiful with LED lighting. Be sure to check on the water feature from time to time to make sure everything is running smoothly.
If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
The Purpose Of Pond Filter Pads | Rochester New York (NY)
Filter pads (or other filter media) have an important role in your water feature, the purpose of filter pads is to keep a lot of surface area that will help to grow the beneficial bacteria. In reality should not be cleaned very often.
This beneficial bacteria helps to balance your ecosystem water feature and are responsible for maintaining crystal clear healthy water; break down organic waste – in the form of sludge, and breaks down ammonia – from fish waste.
This beneficial bacteria helps to balance your ecosystem water feature and are responsible for maintaining crystal clear healthy water; break down organic waste – in the form of sludge, and breaks down ammonia – from fish waste.
Also, some customers mistakenly believe this beneficial bacteria is “crud” and will unfortunately wash it off. Once removed, the process of growing beneficial bacteria will have to start all over again!
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls recommend to only clean your filter pads a couple times a year. Once during the spring clean out and again during fall shutdown. In some cases a third mid summer cleaning of filters can benefit the pond as well. Most filter pads will last a year or two before you should have to replace them.
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls recommend to only clean your filter pads a couple times a year. Once during the spring clean out and again during fall shutdown. In some cases a third mid summer cleaning of filters can benefit the pond as well. Most filter pads will last a year or two before you should have to replace them.
How To Identify If Your Pond Needs Its Filters Cleaned (Summer Maintenance)
- Do you have a waterfall on your pond that starts to slow down around the end of June?
- Is your water a bit dirtier than it was a month or two ago?
- Have some of the stalks of your plants fallen over?
- Would you like to spruce up your koi fish pond for a wedding, birthday, event or party?
*Because each pond is unique, there are more examples but these are the most common.
Not Sure What Type Of Filtration Is Right For You? We Can Help! Call Us For A Pond Design Consultation 585-442-6373
7 Spring Pond Maintenance Tips Rochester (NY) New York
1. Cleaning your pond in Rochester NY, let’s do the dirty work. After winter, ponds can have an unpleasant odor, murky water, be full of debris, and be dirty in general. This makes it hard to see your fish. Your pond becomes worse and less enjoyable the longer it stays like this.
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The best time to perform a koi pond clean-out is the early spring. Acorn recommends that your pond receive a full cleaning at least once per year.
2. Check your pond pump and make sure that it's clean and functioning correctly. Remember your pump is the heart of your water feature and needs to be in good condition at all times.
 3. Remove the algae, leaves and other debris left over from the season before. This is crucial because an excess of decaying debris will add to the nutrient levels and the algae in the pond. |   |
 | 4. Start adding beneficial bacteria treatments and continue to do so regularly throughout the season. It competes with the algae for available nutrients, starving the algae of its food source. |
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5. Add aquatic plants to your pond to absorb algae forming nutrients. Plants are great for adding character to a pond by providing color and texture, but from a filtration perspective, they’re second to none.
Thriving from the excess nutrients in a pond and depriving algae of its food source, the aquatic plants in a water garden, given proper coverage, are critical for the overall health of the ecosystem.
Thriving from the excess nutrients in a pond and depriving algae of its food source, the aquatic plants in a water garden, given proper coverage, are critical for the overall health of the ecosystem.
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6. When should I start feeding my pond fish?
Fish are also sensitive to water temperature, and as it warms up, you will see more activity, and be tempted to feed them. You’ve missed your fish all winter, but until the water temperature is consistently at 55° F, don’t feed them.
7. Avoid overfeeding your fish. Fish food that is not eaten will add more nutrients to the pond, helping feed the algae. Remember there are plenty of natural foods already in your pond for your fish to eat.
Fish are also sensitive to water temperature, and as it warms up, you will see more activity, and be tempted to feed them. You’ve missed your fish all winter, but until the water temperature is consistently at 55° F, don’t feed them.
7. Avoid overfeeding your fish. Fish food that is not eaten will add more nutrients to the pond, helping feed the algae. Remember there are plenty of natural foods already in your pond for your fish to eat.
Water features provide soothing sights and sounds that help you relax and de-stress in today's busy world
If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
NY|Beneficial Pond Bacteria|Pond Water Treatments|Rochester|New York|Near Me
The very short answer: Yes!
Each year as we maintain ponds in Rochester NY, we consistently remind our customers to add beneficial pond bacteria to their ponds & water gardens. This is to maintain a consistent balance of beneficial pond bacteria to provide consistent water quality and water clarity for the pond’s ecosystem.
Why Add Beneficial Pond Bacteria If It Will Grow On It’s Own?
Honestly, we asked the same question and were skeptical to consistently add this extra liquid “stuff”. We felt as though the pond and filtration would maintain the proper pond bacteria levels without supplementation and this does happen to a certain extent, however…
We decided to test products to see if they really made a difference. Over the course of a year, we consistently added beneficial pond bacteria and a sludge bacteria to one pond and not another, both having similar fish loads and proper filtration.
The results were dramatic. The pond with “stuff”, added consistently, was gin clear with no green water in the spring and a 3 week filter cycle ( pond enthusiasts: a filter cycle is how quickly water quality results showed 0 for ammonia and nitrites).
Also, in the fall there was very little sludge build-up on the bottom of the pondand every stone was visible. The fish were also very lively and looked extremely healthy.
We decided to test products to see if they really made a difference. Over the course of a year, we consistently added beneficial pond bacteria and a sludge bacteria to one pond and not another, both having similar fish loads and proper filtration.
The results were dramatic. The pond with “stuff”, added consistently, was gin clear with no green water in the spring and a 3 week filter cycle ( pond enthusiasts: a filter cycle is how quickly water quality results showed 0 for ammonia and nitrites).
Also, in the fall there was very little sludge build-up on the bottom of the pondand every stone was visible. The fish were also very lively and looked extremely healthy.
 | The pond we didn’t supplemental pond bacteria to was clear, but not like the other, and the sludge build up was significantly visible on the rocks in this pond. The pond did go through a 7-10 day spring green water phase and the filter took about 8 weeks to cycle. (Big difference) The fish looked healthy and were active, but less active, but not as visible or vibrant as those in the pond with consistent pond bacteria additions(“stuff”). |
By this time we felt as though we had answered the question of: Is it worth adding pond bacteria? Yes, in our opinion it is 100% worth it to add pond bacteria and sludge reducing bacteria.
Read Acorn Ponds Info About Our Bacteria Dosing System
The Bacteria Dosing System
 | Have you ever forgotten to add your water treatments to your backyard pond only to be reminded by an abundance of algae growth? The Aquascape Automatic Dosing System will help keep your water feature looking great all year long! |
*So What Made That Difference???
*Just Because We Added Some Liquid Bacteria To The Pond???
*Just Because We Added Some Liquid Bacteria To The Pond???
The waste levels become elevated and the bacteria need to grow naturally to eat this waste. It takes time for these bacteria to multiply which can create poor water quality and water in the meantime. This creates a bacteria cycle of highs and lows. Your pond needs consistency.
Adding beneficial pond bacteria is a way of supplementing and keeping pond bacteria levels steady so the bacteria are consistently keeping up with the ammonia and fish waste levels. This is somewhat similar to us taking vitamin supplements for our bodies in an effort to keep our vitamin levels consistent.
Adding beneficial pond bacteria eliminates high and low bacteria level swings which provides us with a cleaner and clearer pond, as well as a healthier environment for our fishfriends.
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls is Western New York's including Pittsford, Fairport, Webster & beyond premier water garden and koi pond contractor. Building, maintaining, and helping customers with their ponds is our passion, hobby, and most of all fun and rewarding.
We take great pride in our attention to detail and careful planning from the design process throughout the construction of any water feature you can dream up. Beyond construction of your water feature, we also specialize in the maintenance of anything and everything related to waterscapes. Our vast knowledge of koi and pond fish will always be at your fingertips, whenever you need help.
Adding beneficial pond bacteria is a way of supplementing and keeping pond bacteria levels steady so the bacteria are consistently keeping up with the ammonia and fish waste levels. This is somewhat similar to us taking vitamin supplements for our bodies in an effort to keep our vitamin levels consistent.
Adding beneficial pond bacteria eliminates high and low bacteria level swings which provides us with a cleaner and clearer pond, as well as a healthier environment for our fishfriends.
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls is Western New York's including Pittsford, Fairport, Webster & beyond premier water garden and koi pond contractor. Building, maintaining, and helping customers with their ponds is our passion, hobby, and most of all fun and rewarding.
We take great pride in our attention to detail and careful planning from the design process throughout the construction of any water feature you can dream up. Beyond construction of your water feature, we also specialize in the maintenance of anything and everything related to waterscapes. Our vast knowledge of koi and pond fish will always be at your fingertips, whenever you need help.
Keep Your Pond Looking Great With Pond Maintenance Services By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) Call Us 585-442-6373
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls is offering this blog as a personal information source to our website visitors & Rochester NY Pond Owners. Our Pond services are performed in Monroe County Rochester New York (NY) & surrounding areas. Pond Maintenance, Pond Construction & Pond Repair are all in our wheelhouse of talent, Explore our website for more ideas.
How To Get Rid Of Pond Algae|Rochester New York|NY|AcornPonds&Waterfalls
The annual ritual of the spring clean-out for the pond or water garden is just the answer. Physically changing the water in your pond, not just treating it,immediately reduces nutrient levels.
Removing the leaves, branches, sludge, and other organic debris in your pond removes the source of nutrient build up. Cleaning your filters and starting up your pond system starts breaking down and controlling the remaining nutrients.
Removing the leaves, branches, sludge, and other organic debris in your pond removes the source of nutrient build up. Cleaning your filters and starting up your pond system starts breaking down and controlling the remaining nutrients.
Get Rid Of Pond Algae - Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
Do You Want To Remove Your Algae?
NY|What Is An Exploratory Pond Cleaning|Water Feature|Service|Rochester|New York|Near Me
Pond (Exploratory & Analyzation) Cleaning Services - Rochester New York (NY)
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls 585-442-6373
Serving Rochester & Western New York (NY) Areas
| Are you buying a home or have you recently purchased one that has a water feature or pond in Rochester or Western New York (NY) and would it be a good idea to hire a professional pond company to clean, assess, and educate you on the system you have? Having a true pond professional (Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls) figure out and explain everything to you regarding your new water garden and what it is that you need to do for maximum enjoyment can save a lot of headaches down the road. |  |
Peace Of Mind With Your New Water Garden
 | As we know not all ponds are created equal and having extensive pond knowledge will allow a good pond contractor to help guide you. Let's face it, "peace of mind" is everything! It is a state of mental and emotional calmness, with no worries, fears or stress. In the state, the mind is quiet and you can experience a sense of happiness and freedom. Escaping from the stress of life by a beautiful and enjoyable pond will definitely create "Peace Of Mind". |
The Process To Help Homeowners Understand Their Newly Inherited Ponds:
 | The first step is to drain out all the water in the pond to see what is going on. All aquatic life(fish, frogs, etc.) are placed in large holding tubs. The plants remain in the pond. Once the water is out, everything in the pond is examined and explained to the homeowners. It is always important for one homeowner to be present to actually see and understand what is happening. This is time well spent as trying to understand through a phone conversation can be very difficult. The filters are also cleaned and inspected at the time of service. At the end of the cleaning Acorn Ponds provide the homeowner (a written report if desired) a report of all their findings. Basically, the Acorn Ponds team will explain to a new pond owner what they have, and what they can do to make it better and lower maintenance. |
We Recommend Fully Draining & Cleaning Your Koi Fish Pond At Least Once Every Year Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
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Effective Way To Filter Pond Water | Rochester NY| Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
One of the common misconceptions consumers have today about Rochester (NY) pond ownership is that maintenanceis tedious and time consuming but this simply isn’t true when proper steps are taken to create an ecosystem pond that filters pond water and works with Mother Nature, not against her.
Ecosystem Pond Filtration In Rochester New York (NY)
In addition to plants, fish, aeration, rocks and gravel, a low-maintenance ecosystem pond requires adequate filtration to help keep the water crystal clear. Three types of pond filters are available on the market and include biological, mechanical, and sterilizers.
1.- Biological filters use bacteria to break down pond wastes, converting them into less harmful compounds that can be used as aquatic plant fertilizers.
2.- Mechanical filters trap and remove debris and sediment.
3.- Water sterilizers pass water through a tube that houses an ultraviolet bulb, killing living microscopic particles in the water.
A good biological filtration system, teamed with a proper mechanical filter toremove solids before the water enters the biological filtration unit, is the most effective way to filter water. With adequate biological and mechanical filtration, the need for sterilizers is eliminated altogether, thereby ensuring a natural ecosystem pond.
1.- Biological filters use bacteria to break down pond wastes, converting them into less harmful compounds that can be used as aquatic plant fertilizers.
2.- Mechanical filters trap and remove debris and sediment.
3.- Water sterilizers pass water through a tube that houses an ultraviolet bulb, killing living microscopic particles in the water.
A good biological filtration system, teamed with a proper mechanical filter toremove solids before the water enters the biological filtration unit, is the most effective way to filter water. With adequate biological and mechanical filtration, the need for sterilizers is eliminated altogether, thereby ensuring a natural ecosystem pond.
The Job of a Pond Skimmer
 Pond Skimmer Filter Maintenance |  Pond Skimmer Filter Installation |
The main function of mechanical filtration, or skimmer, is to remove debris before it sinks to the bottom of the pond and decays. The skimmer also houses and hides the pump and plumbing from view, as opposed to being placed directly in the pond where they become an eyesore. The skimmer won’t drain the pond if a possible leak occurs in either the plumbing or waterfalls.
There are two main types of skimmers: box skimmers and floating skimmers. Both types filter the water by removing floating debris and waste before it’s had a chance to fall to the bottom of the pond. The box skimmer is the predominant type of skimmer on the market today because it’s easy to maintain.
Box-style skimmers come with either vertical or horizontal filter mats. Horizontal mats prove to be the most effective, while providing the least amount of maintenance. In addition to frequent cleaning, vertical mats need to be constantly monitored to make sure there is enough water in the pump chamber for the pump to operate properly. An advantage of horizontal filter mats is that they lay flat so there is no sagging and they don’t lose their shape. They also never clog to the point of preventing water from passing through, so the pump chamber does not run dry.
As water enters the skimmer, the large debris is removed and the water is then further filtered through the horizontal mat. The pond water then travels through the plumbing buried underground, up to the biological filter where it’s further treated before re-entering the pond.
There are two main types of skimmers: box skimmers and floating skimmers. Both types filter the water by removing floating debris and waste before it’s had a chance to fall to the bottom of the pond. The box skimmer is the predominant type of skimmer on the market today because it’s easy to maintain.
Box-style skimmers come with either vertical or horizontal filter mats. Horizontal mats prove to be the most effective, while providing the least amount of maintenance. In addition to frequent cleaning, vertical mats need to be constantly monitored to make sure there is enough water in the pump chamber for the pump to operate properly. An advantage of horizontal filter mats is that they lay flat so there is no sagging and they don’t lose their shape. They also never clog to the point of preventing water from passing through, so the pump chamber does not run dry.
As water enters the skimmer, the large debris is removed and the water is then further filtered through the horizontal mat. The pond water then travels through the plumbing buried underground, up to the biological filter where it’s further treated before re-entering the pond.
Biological Filtration Goes to Work
 Waterfall Filter |  Installed: Waterfall Filter |
The biological filter receives water that has already passed through the mechanical filter, or skimmer, typically placed on the opposite side of the pond. The water enters the biological filter via flexible pipe located near the base of the unit.
The water then flows from the bottom to the top of the filter, traveling through filter media housed inside the unit. The filter media helps with the removal of fine to medium-sized particles. The larger debris was already removed by the skimmer.
As the biological filter fills, it will overflow and cascade over its waterfall lip, cascading down rocks that have been set to create a beautiful and preferably natural-looking waterfall. The waterfall creates aeration for the pond, assisting in the circulation and health of the water. If a slower, stream effect is preferred, the unit simply needs to be sunk lower into the ground.
The water then flows from the bottom to the top of the filter, traveling through filter media housed inside the unit. The filter media helps with the removal of fine to medium-sized particles. The larger debris was already removed by the skimmer.
As the biological filter fills, it will overflow and cascade over its waterfall lip, cascading down rocks that have been set to create a beautiful and preferably natural-looking waterfall. The waterfall creates aeration for the pond, assisting in the circulation and health of the water. If a slower, stream effect is preferred, the unit simply needs to be sunk lower into the ground.
The Science Behind The Design For Pond Filtration
Mechanical and biological filtration are critical to processing the many types of nutrients found in a water garden system, including fish waste, uneaten fish food, leaves, and runoff from lawns to name a few. High levels of ammonia (a form of nitrogen) are highly toxic to fish and are a major contributor to prolific algae growth, and so they need to be carefully controlled. In water gardening, the primary nutrient that biological filtration utilizes and renders usable is nitrogen.
In biological filtration, nitrifying bacteria, known as facultative bacteria, absorb ammonia, and turn nitrites into nitrates, which are less dangerous. These bacteria require oxygen to live, so it’s important for the pond’s pump to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If the pump isn’t running, the waterfalls aren’t flowing, and aeration is eliminated from the necessary equation to maintain an ecosystem pond. Keep in mind that if the pump shuts down, the bacteria will quickly use up all of the oxygen and die. This isn’t a good thing.
In biological filtration, nitrifying bacteria, known as facultative bacteria, absorb ammonia, and turn nitrites into nitrates, which are less dangerous. These bacteria require oxygen to live, so it’s important for the pond’s pump to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If the pump isn’t running, the waterfalls aren’t flowing, and aeration is eliminated from the necessary equation to maintain an ecosystem pond. Keep in mind that if the pump shuts down, the bacteria will quickly use up all of the oxygen and die. This isn’t a good thing.
The Role of Aquatic Pond Plants
 Aquatic Plants Are Important For Your Pond | Another important component to pond filtration is the use of plants. Many gardeners add a pond to their landscape for the variety of aquatic plantsavailable, and while their beauty is certainly an aesthetic asset; a critical benefit is the work these plants do to help filter the water. |
Plants help purify pond water by reducing nutrients, filtering out sediments and absorbing toxic compounds through the process of phytoremediation.
If these excess nutrients are not removed, algae will feed on them, resulting in green water, string algae, or both. Algae control is not the only way plants help create a low-maintenance ecosystem pond. Submerged and marginal plants also provide food, shade, and protection for the fish and other wildlifethat live in and around the pond.
If these excess nutrients are not removed, algae will feed on them, resulting in green water, string algae, or both. Algae control is not the only way plants help create a low-maintenance ecosystem pond. Submerged and marginal plants also provide food, shade, and protection for the fish and other wildlifethat live in and around the pond.
Low-Fish Pond Maintenance
To keep pond water quality high, the simple process of repeatedly turning the water over through the mechanical and biological filters is needed in order to create a naturally balanced, low-maintenance ecosystem pond. Add the remaining components of plants, fish, aeration, rock, and gravel and you will spend less time fiddling in the backyard on pond chores, it means you can enjoy more leisure time relaxing by your backyard oasis.
Have A Well Balance Pond with Aquatic Plants, Fish & Filtration System Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester New York (NY) 585-442-6373
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7 Tips For Planting Your Pond|Backyard Pond Design|Rochester|NY|New York
From colorful lilies that dance on the pond’s surface to aquatic forget-me-nots that hug the edges of your Rochester NY water garden, it’s the amazing pond plants that put the “garden” in “water garden.”
You can apply many of the same tips and guidelines you use to create your terrestrial flower beds. Things like color, height, and planting conditions are things you’ll want to consider when it comes to naturalizing your pond with plants.
You can apply many of the same tips and guidelines you use to create your terrestrial flower beds. Things like color, height, and planting conditions are things you’ll want to consider when it comes to naturalizing your pond with plants.
1. Create Interest with Variety. Random placement of plants with varying textures and colors will create more interest than using plants that have all the same growth habit or leaf shape.
2. Play with Colors. Choose colors you like best and consider the type of lighting your pond receives. Yellow, orange, and white help brighten shady areas, while cool blue and violet tone down the intensity of the sun’s rays.
3. Go Green. A soft, calming space is created by using different textures and shades of green foliage. The combination is effective on its own, but also looks great when accented only by white flowers. You can also play with color based on leaf selection alone, since you’ll find aquatic foliage in a range of colors such as red, purple, yellow, and several variegated combinations.
4. Know Your Plant Size. One of the biggest mistakes novice water gardeners make is failing to realize how big their pond plants might grow. Be sure to take height and width of the mature plant into consideration and allow enough space for future growth.
5. Short in Front, Tall in Back. This might seem like a no-brainer, but always put shorter plants in front of taller ones. Most likely, you’ll spend most of your time viewing your water garden from a deck or patio, so keep that sight line in mind when planting your pond.
5. Short in Front, Tall in Back. This might seem like a no-brainer, but always put shorter plants in front of taller ones. Most likely, you’ll spend most of your time viewing your water garden from a deck or patio, so keep that sight line in mind when planting your pond.
6. Group Plants Together. Interior decorators tell you to group like objects together when decorating your home, to create visual impact. Use this same principle when planting your pond. Plant a row of marsh marigolds along a stretch of the ponds edge, as opposed to dotting them all around the pond in single locations.
7. Consider Each Plant’s Needs. Be mindful of how much sun your aquatic plants require, along with their planting depth. If a plant requires full sun, that’s a minimum of 6 hours of unobstructed (ie not dappled shade) sun per day. If you’re not sure what your plant needs, search online for information.
7. Consider Each Plant’s Needs. Be mindful of how much sun your aquatic plants require, along with their planting depth. If a plant requires full sun, that’s a minimum of 6 hours of unobstructed (ie not dappled shade) sun per day. If you’re not sure what your plant needs, search online for information.
You’ll want to ensure an interesting mix of aquatic plant types for your water garden. Plant a few marginal at the pond’s edge, include colorful water lilies or even a lotus, add floating plants like water lettuce, and include submerged plants to help add oxygen to yourpond. Variety is the spice of gardening life, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
SOME HELPFUL POND INFO LINKS:
Pond Sludge|Muck|Removal|Cleaning|Services|Rochester|New York|NY|Near Me
 | Sludge or muck is merely the organic waste of plants and animals that accumulates at the bottom of every pond. If you don't drain & clean your pond every year, the buildup of sludge can be overwhelming making it more difficult to get rid of. Sludge & muck buildup can lead to more pond problems as well as be detrimental or harmful to the health of your koi fish. |
So How Do I Get Rid Of It?
 | The quickest way to get rid of the muck & sludge is to physically remove it. The pond must be pumped all the way down to the bottom and the muck can be removed with buckets, shovels, vacuums & power washers. There are chemicals available to aid in the removal of light muck buildup but will take time & patience working with the different products. |
How To Keep Muck & Sludge Under Control
To control muck & sludge in your pond:
- Keep your pond clear of organic materials such as leaves, sticks & twigs.
- Cut back aquatic pond plants in the fall.
- Add beneficial bacteria to your pond regularly.
- Drain & clean your pond at least once a year.
- Install a waterfall filter in your pond.
- Install a skimmer in your pond.
- Use aeration when needed in the summer.
- Don't overstock your pond with fish, koi & goldfish.
Have Your Pond Professionally Built & Maintained By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) (585) 442-6373
Send us pictures of your dirty pond for a pond cleaning quote and get help now tom@acornponds.com
Beneficial Bacteria||Pond Water Treatments|Maintenance|Rochester NY
Fall Pond Water Treatments
Shorter, cooler days in Rochester, Monroe County NY mean your pond could benefit from some special attention. To keep your pond water clean and clear throughout the fall season, be sure to stock up on Aquascape Cold Water Beneficial Bacteria, which works at temperatures below 50F and contains 7 pure strains of concentrated beneficial bacteria that go to work quickly, cleaning and balancing your ornamental pond.
Continue to add beneficial bacteria to your pond until you begin to see ice form on the surface.
Continue to add beneficial bacteria to your pond until you begin to see ice form on the surface.
Cold Water Pond Bacteria for Spring & Fall
Aquascape Cold Water Beneficial Bacteria maintains a strong biological balance, providing clean, clear, and healthy water conditions. It reduces ammonia, nitrite, and organic debris, meaning less pond maintenance for you! Cold Water Beneficial Bacteria is safe for plants and fish.
If you have questions or need help with the maintenance of your ornamental or backyard goldfish pond and you live near Rochester, Monroe County, NY call 585.442.6373 or Contact us Now!
If you have questions or need help with the maintenance of your ornamental or backyard goldfish pond and you live near Rochester, Monroe County, NY call 585.442.6373 or Contact us Now!
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Offering Pond Maintenance Services & Landscape Ideas For Rochester, Monroe County, NY
Looking for Pond Maintenance Services or Landscape DesignIdeas In Pittsford, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Pond Maintenance Service Areas:
Rochester, Monroe County, New York, NY Pittsford, Penfield, Brighton, Fairport, Irondequoit, Perinton, Victor, Mendon, Webster, Greece, Chili, Scottsville, Bushnell's Basin, Rush, Henrietta, North Greece, East Henrietta, West Henrietta, East Rochester, Bloomfield, West Webster, North Gates, Honeyoye Falls, Gates Chili, Bergen, Palmyra, Charlotte, Palma, North Chili, NY, Near Me
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Pond Maintenance Service Areas:
Rochester, Monroe County, New York, NY Pittsford, Penfield, Brighton, Fairport, Irondequoit, Perinton, Victor, Mendon, Webster, Greece, Chili, Scottsville, Bushnell's Basin, Rush, Henrietta, North Greece, East Henrietta, West Henrietta, East Rochester, Bloomfield, West Webster, North Gates, Honeyoye Falls, Gates Chili, Bergen, Palmyra, Charlotte, Palma, North Chili, NY, Near Me
Fall Pond Water Treatments Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
Demand The Best, Have It Installed Right...
The First Time!
 Pond Cleaning Services in Pittsford, NY! |  Fall Pond Maintenance In Pittsford, NY! |
Pond Service|Review|Rochester New York|NY
Review for Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Click here to see review on Houzz
Relationship: Client
Project Date: May 2015
Project Price Range: $1,000-$9,999
I hired Tom after interviewing a few companies regarding my existing two-tiered pond with waterfall that had become overgrown with algae and a maintenance nightmare. Most companies offered a maintenance program to clean periodically as the solution, but Tom offered a solution that required limited maintenance.
While the other solutions would have been less costly they didn't get to the root of the problem and were more of a Band-Aid approach. Tom's Aquascape solution made more sense to me in that it included an ionizer, beneficial bacteria doser, skimmer and BOG filtration system. I did question the cost of his solution during the process, but now feel I received fair value for the solution he brought to the table. It has been 2 months since he completed his work and I'm very pleased with the results. The ionizer after finding the correct setting and beneficial bacteria dozer has kept 95+% of the algae away. I get the occasional string of algae that is easy enough to rake out and allows me to see and enjoy the beautiful Koi that I have.
The skimmer has trapped all the debris that falls into the pond after the last few windy months that would have settled on the bottom. While I am grateful for all that and it has truly allowed me to enjoy my pond again, my favorite thing Tom did was install the BOG filtration system, as it has turned the second tier of my pond into a thing of beauty with the incredible plants he put up there. I know that the filtration system is also helping with the algae problems I had, but I really didn't expect to enjoy the beautiful plants up there that give the whole pond a softer look than just looking at a lot of rocks. I also want to communicate that Tom kept his commitments in regards to the timing of the project and has been available if I have any questions.
Even when I don't have questions he has followed up multiple times to make sure everything is going well and to see if I needed anything. All in all, Tom and his guys surpassed my expectations and I would highly recommend working with him and his company.
Project Date: May 2015
Project Price Range: $1,000-$9,999
I hired Tom after interviewing a few companies regarding my existing two-tiered pond with waterfall that had become overgrown with algae and a maintenance nightmare. Most companies offered a maintenance program to clean periodically as the solution, but Tom offered a solution that required limited maintenance.
While the other solutions would have been less costly they didn't get to the root of the problem and were more of a Band-Aid approach. Tom's Aquascape solution made more sense to me in that it included an ionizer, beneficial bacteria doser, skimmer and BOG filtration system. I did question the cost of his solution during the process, but now feel I received fair value for the solution he brought to the table. It has been 2 months since he completed his work and I'm very pleased with the results. The ionizer after finding the correct setting and beneficial bacteria dozer has kept 95+% of the algae away. I get the occasional string of algae that is easy enough to rake out and allows me to see and enjoy the beautiful Koi that I have.
The skimmer has trapped all the debris that falls into the pond after the last few windy months that would have settled on the bottom. While I am grateful for all that and it has truly allowed me to enjoy my pond again, my favorite thing Tom did was install the BOG filtration system, as it has turned the second tier of my pond into a thing of beauty with the incredible plants he put up there. I know that the filtration system is also helping with the algae problems I had, but I really didn't expect to enjoy the beautiful plants up there that give the whole pond a softer look than just looking at a lot of rocks. I also want to communicate that Tom kept his commitments in regards to the timing of the project and has been available if I have any questions.
Even when I don't have questions he has followed up multiple times to make sure everything is going well and to see if I needed anything. All in all, Tom and his guys surpassed my expectations and I would highly recommend working with him and his company.
Have Your New Water Feature Or Backyard Pond Professionally Installed By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)
Click here to see more reviews for Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Author
Landscape Designer / Pond Contractor, Tom Warmerdam has been designing, installing & maintaining koi ponds, water features, patios, landscape lighting & creating outdoor living area paradises all around Rochester, New York (NY) for over 30 years. His company Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls was awarded by Aquascape Inc. as one of the top 100 in North America in 2014. He has been attending conferences at Aquascape headquarters every year since 2004 in Chicago, Ill to maintain his Certification(Certified Aquascape Contractor) status.
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