7 Tips For Planting Your Pond|Backyard Pond Design|Rochester|NY|New YorkFrom 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.  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.  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.  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) 442-6373SOME HELPFUL POND INFO LINKS:
1 Comment
Pond Sludge|Muck|Removal|Cleaning|Services|Rochester|New York|NY|Near Me
So How Do I Get Rid Of It?
How To Keep Muck & Sludge Under ControlTo control muck & sludge in your pond:
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 Pond Aeration|Koi Fish Ponds|Ecosystem Ponds|Filters|Rochester New York (NY)Pond Aeration Ideas - Rochester New York (NY)
Four Ways We Aerate Fish Ponds In Rochester (NY) New York : The four ways we aerate fish ponds in Rochester (NY) New York :
Aerators
Solid Handling Pumps
Waterfall Filtration
Spitters & Fountains
Keep Your Koi Pond Looking Great With Pond Aeration Services By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) Call Us 585-442-6373 CONTACT US NOW TO GET AN AERATION SYSTEM FOR YOUR POND! Some Helpful Pond Info Links:Winter Pump Care For Ponds & Water Features In Rochester NY|Acorn Ponds & WaterfallsRemove & Store Your Pump
To test, plug the pump into the electrical outlet prior to installing the pump back in the skimmer and visually inspect if the pumps impeller is spinning. If the pumps impeller does not start spinning on its own use a screw driver or similar device to assist the impeller. Once the impeller begins spinning the lubrication will be reintroduced between the seals and the pump should start on its own. The pump can now be installed back into the water feature. * Tip: Place a piece of plastic wrap over the bucket to reduce evaporation. If you are located near Rochester, NY and need help removing your pump, preparing your pond for the winter or have any pond maintenance questions, call or Contact us, Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls at 585.442.6373.  Install a floating heater to your pond to keep an opening in the ice so gases from decomposing plants can escape. Helpful Links With Pond Information:If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Pond Service|Review|Rochester New York|NYReview for Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Click here to see review on HouzzRelationship: 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. 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 & WaterfallsSummer Pond Maintenance|Tips|Services|Rochester New York|NYSummer Pond Maintenance Tips For Rochester New York |
| Record high temperatures in the Rochester, Monroe County, New York (NY) area create a number of challenges for people, pets, plants, and yes, even your water garden. You’ll want to keep a close eye on your pond, especially when the water temperature reaches 80 degrees or higher. Warm water has a low capacity for holding oxygen, so you may start to see your fish gasping for air close to the water’s surface, or especially close to a fountain or waterfall. In addition, warm pond water leads to increased activity and that means your fish require more oxygen at a time when it’s least available. |  Click the image to learn more about our scheduled summer pond maintenance services in Rochester, Monroe County, New York(NY) |
 Lifestyle |  Fish |  Wildlife |  Plants |
 Click the image to learn more about water garden & pond fish in Rochester, NY. | As your fish struggle for oxygen, they’ll become increasingly stressed. And stressed fish are more likely to develop diseases … a scenario you want to avoid. |
To optimize fish health during extreme heat, you’ll want to ensure your fish have the best pond environment possible. It all starts with a well-designed water feature. Depth, plant coverage, shade, and circulation should all be considered when building a pond. A minimum depth of two feet is suggested so the bottom can remain cooler.
| You’ll also want to stock your pond with a lot of plants to provide shade for the fish. A good rule of thumb is to provide plant coverage of approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the pond’s surface area. Waterlily pads provide great coverage, but if your pond lacks the proper amount, you can easily add floating plants such as water lettuce until the waterlilies fill in. |  Click the image to learn more about pond plants in Rochester, NY. |
 Click the image to learn more about pond filtration in Rochester, NY. | Perhaps one of the most important parts of pond design is circulation. If possible, you’ll want to place your biological filter and mechanical filter across the pond from each other, so that all areas of the pond are skimmed and the water circulated. And keep in mind that waterfalls, streams, and even fountains play a huge part in the oxygenation of the water in your pond. If you don’t already have a waterfall cascading into your pond, you might want to invest in a fountain that can be added without any construction to the pond. |
During these hot, dog days of summer, try some of these maintenance tips to keep your pond performing optimally:
- Add oxygen to your pond by placing an aerator or AquaForce® pump in your pond. You can also install a fountain with a pump if your pond doesn’t have a waterfall or stream built in.
- If you feed your fish, feed them in the morning and be careful not to overfeed. Uneaten food decays faster in warmer water and can pollute the pond.
- Be sure to remove dying leaves and flowers before they have a chance to decay in the warmer water.
Demand The Best, Have It Installed Right... The First Time!
Summer Pond Maintenance By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)
 Learn more about pond algae in Rochester, NY |  We can help you with pond maintenance in Pittsford, NY. |
 Rochester NY's Trusted Pond Contractor Since 2004 | Looking for Ecosystem Pond & Goldfish Pond Services or Pondless Water Feature Ideas In Pittsford, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373 Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Water Feature 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, Honeoye Falls, Gates Chili, Parma, Palma, Charlotte, NY |
UV Clarifier| Green Pond Water| Rochester New York|NY
UV Clarifiers/Sterilizers For Ponds
In some Rochester, NY ponds, algae blooms, or "green water", can be a difficult issue to address safely and effectively.
A well balanced pond with aquatic plants, fish and filtration system rarely will have this problem but when you have tried everything else, or you do not have an ecosystem pond and you want to be able to see your fish again and clear up the green water, the UV Light Clarifiers/ Sterilizers are the way to go.
A well balanced pond with aquatic plants, fish and filtration system rarely will have this problem but when you have tried everything else, or you do not have an ecosystem pond and you want to be able to see your fish again and clear up the green water, the UV Light Clarifiers/ Sterilizers are the way to go.
We have all your pond algae or green water solutions in Rochester, Monroe County, NY! UV clarifiers and UV sterilizers: Two terms that are commonly heard in the world of water gardening and sometimes are surrounded by a veil of mystery and disapproval.
You ask some people and they say they are bad, you ask others and they say that they are good. Who is right? The truth is they are both right.
The general conception is that they do the same thing but this is far from the truth. Technically, UV clarifiers and UV sterilizers are the same thing in that they both contain all of the same parts, but where they differ is what they are used for.
You ask some people and they say they are bad, you ask others and they say that they are good. Who is right? The truth is they are both right.
The general conception is that they do the same thing but this is far from the truth. Technically, UV clarifiers and UV sterilizers are the same thing in that they both contain all of the same parts, but where they differ is what they are used for.
UV Clarifier/Sterilizers 101
Since UV clarifiers and sterilizers are made from the same “guts,” let’s dive into how they work. In a nutshell, both units do their job using an extremely high output ultra violet bulb that is protected by a crystal sleeve. These bulbs are designed to emit light (energy) waves that are out of the spectrum of visible light.
So what does this mean? The particular wavelength of light that the bulb emits is harmful when it comes in contact with things around it. So when organisms such as bacteria, parasitic protozoa, and algae cells come in contact with the light from the bulb, their DNA is altered, ultimately causing harm and death to the organism. In essence, they are “nuked.”
Generally, bacteria and algae are pretty sensitive to UV light, and a short exposure is all it takes to “nuke” them. This would be a good job for a UV clarifier. Parasitic protozoa, like ich and costia, require a longer exposure time so the water would need to flow more slowly through the UV light, so a sterilizer is needed.
The longer the organism is exposed to the light, the more damage is done to it and that’s where the main difference between clarifiers and sterilizers lies – how quickly the water flows past the bulb, or how long the water and the organisms are exposed to the light.
Now let’s talk about things that affect the efficiency of the bulb. Generally speaking, although the bulb may still emit light, it is only effective at killing algae for about 8 to 12 months.
The cleanliness of the water and of the crystal sleeve also influence the effectiveness of the bulb - the dirtier the water and sleeve, the less the UV light will be able to come into contact with the nuisance organisms. To prevent sludge and lime build up, the sleeve can be cleaned with a mild detergent, followed by a rinse of clean water.
So what does this mean? The particular wavelength of light that the bulb emits is harmful when it comes in contact with things around it. So when organisms such as bacteria, parasitic protozoa, and algae cells come in contact with the light from the bulb, their DNA is altered, ultimately causing harm and death to the organism. In essence, they are “nuked.”
Generally, bacteria and algae are pretty sensitive to UV light, and a short exposure is all it takes to “nuke” them. This would be a good job for a UV clarifier. Parasitic protozoa, like ich and costia, require a longer exposure time so the water would need to flow more slowly through the UV light, so a sterilizer is needed.
The longer the organism is exposed to the light, the more damage is done to it and that’s where the main difference between clarifiers and sterilizers lies – how quickly the water flows past the bulb, or how long the water and the organisms are exposed to the light.
Now let’s talk about things that affect the efficiency of the bulb. Generally speaking, although the bulb may still emit light, it is only effective at killing algae for about 8 to 12 months.
The cleanliness of the water and of the crystal sleeve also influence the effectiveness of the bulb - the dirtier the water and sleeve, the less the UV light will be able to come into contact with the nuisance organisms. To prevent sludge and lime build up, the sleeve can be cleaned with a mild detergent, followed by a rinse of clean water.
How They Work
Finally, the solution for green pond water in Rochester, Monroe County NY has arrived!
Sterilizer VS. Clarifier
Everyone hates to have that dreaded algae bloom in their pond. If you own a water garden then you know your worst enemy is the unsightly scourge that is green water.
A well-balanced pond ecosystem rarely has problems with green water, but any water feature, when out of balance, might require you to resort to artificial means to control algae blooms.
This is where UV clarifiers come in handy. Their main purpose is to clear the water and get rid of those nasty algae blooms that cause green water. But remember, UV clarifiers only get rid of the single-celled, floating algae. It does not get rid of other forms of algae such as string or blanket algae.
A well-balanced pond ecosystem rarely has problems with green water, but any water feature, when out of balance, might require you to resort to artificial means to control algae blooms.
This is where UV clarifiers come in handy. Their main purpose is to clear the water and get rid of those nasty algae blooms that cause green water. But remember, UV clarifiers only get rid of the single-celled, floating algae. It does not get rid of other forms of algae such as string or blanket algae.
UV Sterilizers
UV Sterilizers/Clarifiers can be connected together depending on what size pond you have in Rochester, Monroe County, NY. Sterilizers, on the other hand, do exactly that. They sterilize. Commonly used in the aquarium industry and fish husbandry as another line of defense in preventing major parasite and bacteria outbreaks, they are designed to get rid of and kill just about everything in the pond water.
To accomplish this, they need to have a longer contact time with the water. Sterilizers require extremely slow flow rates compared to clarifiers. So, if you want to make sure you zap everything in your pond, then this is the way to go.
You also should be aware that UV sterilizers cannot be used with certain medication applications because in addition to the effect it has on bacteria and parasites, it can have a similar effect on the makeup of certain medications, often times rendering them useless. So a good rule of thumb is that the sterilizer be removed or turned off when medicating.
Where do these fit with the general hobbyist? A lot of hobbyists use sterilizers on a smaller scale, in the 9 to 24 watt range, in their own quarantine tanks. Whether you choose a UV clarifier or sterilizer, it should be installed in-line after the skimmer or other mechanical filter, pre-filtering the water to keep the unit from coming in contact with heavy debris.
For Installation of your UV sterilizer or clarifier, we need to know two things to help decide which unit is appropriate for your pond – approximately, how many gallons of water does your pond hold and what do you want the UV to accomplish? Clarifiers and sterilizers definitely have their place in the hobby, but they are only helpful when used in the correct application. Knowing when and how to use them can save you from a lot of headaches and let downs that result from improper application. Certified Aquascape Contractor of Rochester, NY can help you with the installation of a UV Clarifier/Sterilizer, contact us today!
To accomplish this, they need to have a longer contact time with the water. Sterilizers require extremely slow flow rates compared to clarifiers. So, if you want to make sure you zap everything in your pond, then this is the way to go.
You also should be aware that UV sterilizers cannot be used with certain medication applications because in addition to the effect it has on bacteria and parasites, it can have a similar effect on the makeup of certain medications, often times rendering them useless. So a good rule of thumb is that the sterilizer be removed or turned off when medicating.
Where do these fit with the general hobbyist? A lot of hobbyists use sterilizers on a smaller scale, in the 9 to 24 watt range, in their own quarantine tanks. Whether you choose a UV clarifier or sterilizer, it should be installed in-line after the skimmer or other mechanical filter, pre-filtering the water to keep the unit from coming in contact with heavy debris.
For Installation of your UV sterilizer or clarifier, we need to know two things to help decide which unit is appropriate for your pond – approximately, how many gallons of water does your pond hold and what do you want the UV to accomplish? Clarifiers and sterilizers definitely have their place in the hobby, but they are only helpful when used in the correct application. Knowing when and how to use them can save you from a lot of headaches and let downs that result from improper application. Certified Aquascape Contractor of Rochester, NY can help you with the installation of a UV Clarifier/Sterilizer, contact us today!
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Offers Rochester, Monroe County, NY- Pond Filtration Installations Services & Landscaping Ideas
Rochester NY's Trusted Certified Aquascape Contractor Since 2004. Looking for Backyard Pond & Koi Pond Filters or Pond Filtration System Ideas In Rochester, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Pond Filtration 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 Filtration 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
Keep Your Pond Looking Great With Pond Maintenance Services By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)
Demand The Best, Have It Installed
Right...The First Time!
Right...The First Time!
 Pond Cleaning Services, Rochester, NY. |  Pond Netting Services, Rochester, NY. |
Some Helpful Links
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.
Archives
March 2022
January 2022
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
June 2020
April 2020
February 2020
January 2020
September 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
December 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
March 2018
December 2017
September 2017
July 2017
June 2017
May 2017
April 2017
October 2016
June 2016
May 2016
April 2016
March 2016
February 2016
January 2016
October 2015
September 2015
August 2015
June 2015
April 2015
March 2015
February 2015
January 2015
December 2014
Categories
All
Aquatic Pond Plants
Backyard (KOI) Ponds
Bog Filtration
Commercial Features
Customer Reviews
Fire Features
Garden Fountains
Green Pond Water
Landscape Design
Landscaping Ideas
LED Pond Lighting
Pond Algae
Pond Cleaning
Pond Construction
Pond Contractors
Pond Design
Pond Filtration
Pond (KOI) Fish
Pondless Waterfalls
Pond Maintenance
Pond Repair
Pond Tour
Pond Water Treatments
Pumps & Plumbing
Recreational Ponds
Waterfalls
Water Features
Water Gardens
Wildlife
RSS Feed
