Spring Pond Maintenance|Tips For A Clear Pond|Rochester|New York|NYNow that spring is here, you’re probably noticing some changes in your pond – your fish are coming back to life and you may even be able to see some plant growth. Some changes that are taking place, however, aren’t so desirable, like that excess algae growth that you’ve noticing. Understanding the transition that your pond makes from winter into spring and summer is essential in maintaining a healthy pond ecosystem. You may have just spent your weekend cleaning your pond – or having your pond contractor do it for you. A couple of days … weeks pass, and you notice an incredible growth of string algae. “Not again,” you screech to yourself. “I thought my pond was clean!” Well, my friend, cleanliness does not necessarily mean algae-free, especially in the cool water of the early spring. Some simple, important steps can be the difference between a balanced pond with minimal maintenance and a pond that requires unnecessary maintenance. Although bacteria and plants don’t start growing properly until water temperature reaches 55°F, there are still some simple steps you can take to maintain a crystal clear, trouble-free pond. 1) The PlantsSince plants directly compete with algae for nutrients and sunlight, they are probably the most important addition to your pond. Add a wide variety of plants to your pond. This not only creates a natural look, but also will help reduce the algae in different areas of your pond. Place your floating plants, such as water lettuce, in your BioFalls Filter. These floating plants reproduce rapidly, using up enormous amounts of nutrients. A stick placed across the front of the BioFalls Filter will prevent the plants from flowing over the front of the waterfalls and into the pond. Plenty of bog and marginal plants should be added to the pond. Plants such ascattails and iris take up large quantities of nutrients. They are hardy and will be back each spring to help keep your pond balanced. Cover the water surface of the pond by planting waterlilies. Lily pads float on the top of the pond, shading the water. 2) The Bacteria
Automatic Dosing System
3) The FishFish 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. Their metabolism is still in slow motion and they are unable to digest the food properly. If you do feed them and food cannot be digested, this can result in food starting to decay in the body of the fish causing fish to become sick and possibly resulting in their death. When you do start feeding them, begin with small amounts of a quality fish food formulated for colder water temperature, such as Aquascape Premium Coldwater Fish Food Pellets for all pond fish. 4) Patience Please.....It takes time for the bacteria to establish itself and colonize to the point of being a benefit to your pond. In general, a new pond can take anywhere from two to six weeks for the bacteria population to reach this point. We Recommend Fully Draining & Cleaning Your Koi Fish Pond At Least Once Every Year Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373Other Helpful Pond Info Links:
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When To Stop Feeding Pond Fish & Koi| Rochester NYYou've enjoyed the summer relaxing next to your Rochester NY water garden and now the time has come when the leaves start littering the ground and our ponds. The nets are also going over the ponds, but your fish are still swimming around and there is still time to enjoy your pond. So, the most popular question I receive this time of year is: What is my fall fish feeding protocol and when should I stop feeding them? Even though it's fall and the temperatures are falling a well balanced diet is still important for your fish. When pond temperatures fall below 60-degrees, your fishes’ metabolism and digestive system begins to slow down, which inhibits the ability to digest protein effectively. Investing in a pond thermometer will help you determine when to change the eating regimen of your beloved finned friends. Aquascape Premium Cold Water Fish Food has been scientifically formulated to provide quality nutrition to all pond fish, including goldfish and koi. The inclusion of spirulina and wheat germ helps make the food easier to digest at colder water temperatures. Feeding your fish the proper food will help ensure your fish survive their winter slumber. So in conclusion you should still be feeding your fish, but feeding a well balance fall formulated food once the water temperatures reach 60-degrees. We recommend you stop feeding all together, once water temperatures reach 50-degrees. If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Links:5 Critical Summer Fish Pond Tips For New York By Pond Contractor Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester (NY)Now that summer has arrived in Rochester New York (NY), there are things that you need to remember about your water feature in order to keep a balanced ecosystem pond along with happy fish! Take a moment to refresh your memory with these 5 critically important tips.
Often, people do not realize how much water can evaporate from a pond during the dog days of summer. The Eastern states typically lose 1 to 1.5″ of water each week. Pond owners in the hot, arid Southwest have reported evaporation levels in excess of 3″ a week. Remember, these are averages. Some ponds may not experience evaporation levels this high. Other ponds with large pumps pushing high volumes of water, or ponds designed with multiple waterfalls and a lot of cascades and splashing may have evaporation rates much greater than these. If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Info Links: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.
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) 442-6373Pond 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 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Info Links:How To Clean A Pond In Rochester New York (NY)Acorn recommends fully draining and cleaning your koi fish pond at least once every year, otherwise you might have to deal with other problems such as increased maintenance or fish health issues not to mention possible increased repairs for your pond or pump. Items Needed Should You Decide To Do It Yourself
Steps Involved For A Successful Pond Cleaning.
Click here to get more pond maintenance & cleaning tips for koi or fish ponds Hire A Pro To Clean Your Pond In Rochester New York (NY) |
If you shut your pond down during the winter season in Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) we recommend removing the pump from the filter and storing it in a bucket of water in a frost free location. The water will help maintain the life of the seals on the pump while in storage. Please note that the pump, depending on how long it has been out of operation over the winter may need to be “kick-started”. |
* 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.
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If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
Beneficial Bacteria||Pond Water Treatments|Maintenance|Rochester NY
Fall Pond Water Treatments
Continue to add beneficial bacteria to your pond until you begin to see ice form on the surface.
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
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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
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Winter Pond Maintenance| De-Icer| Rochester|NY
Pond De-Icer/Floating Heaters
The Aquascape Pond De-Icer prevents winter fish loss in Rochester, Monroe County NY by keeping a hole open in the ice during the cold winter months. The Pond De-Icer helps ensure there is sufficient oxygen levels and proper gas exchange in the pond helping to prevent fish loss…even during extreme weather conditions. |
Energy Efficient
The Aquascape Pond De-Icer is energy efficient, requiring only 300-watts of electricity. The low energy consumption of the Aquascape Pond De-Icer results in a heater that costs 5x less to operate than traditional Pond De-Icers you would find in the market. |
Stainless Steel Construction
Hire Acorn To Take Care of All Your Pond Maintenance Needs In Rochester NY! Call Tom At
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Prevent Winter Fish Loss And Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls To Prepare Your Pond In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
10 Tips For Fall Pond Care|Rochester|New York|NY|Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
What Should I Do With My Pond In The Winter?
Gardeners across the country take precautions to protect their landscapes from the harsh reality of winter. Water features in the landscape require special consideration when putting your pond to bed for a long winter's nap. For Rochester, Monroe County NY pond owners, Pond maintenance chores in the fall and winter are not that difficult but are important to ensure the health of your ecosystem water garden.
Here are some basic guidelines to help your aquatic plants and finned friends weather the chill of Mother Nature. Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls can help you with these fall pond maintenance and winter preparation tasks if you live in the Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) area. Be sure to contact us early to ensure a spot on our schedule.
- Decaying leaves and foliage produce toxic gases that can harm your fish so you want to remove this debris before winter rolls into town. You don't need to remove every single last leaf, but try to remove the majority.
- If you put protective pond netting over your pond before the leaves started to fall, your job is easy. Carefully roll up the net and discard the leaves that were caught.
- If you didn't use a net over the surface of your pond, you'll need to remove the build-up of leaves from the bottom of the pond. Use a long handled pond net to scoop them out.
- Check yourskimmer basket and remove any leaves that are still caught inside.
- Add Cold Water Beneficial Bacteria to the pond once the temperature drops below 50 degrees. Use twice weekly for two weeks, and then once per week until the water starts to freeze.
- Stop fertilizing your aquatic plants after the first frost.
- Trim back hardy marginal aquatic plants to 2" above the water to keep the dead foliage from drooping over into the pond.
- Trim back waterlily leaves and stems to 2-3" above the base of the plant. This keeps dead foliage from decomposing in the pond.
- If you left hardy waterlilies in their pot, drop them into the deepest part of the pond to over-winter. Do not bring them indoors as they need a period of dormancy.
- Bring tropical waterlilies indoors if you want to over-winter them. Keep the pot in 50-degree water or take them out of the pot and store in sand. Be advised, even trained horticulturists lose a lot oftropical waterlilies when storing them indoors, so you might simply want to treat them as annuals.
- Once temperatures drop to 50 degrees, stop feeding your fish. They need to get ready to hibernate and you'll want to avoid any metabolic complications. You can feed them Cold Water Fish Food until the temperature drops below 50 degrees.
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You With Fall Pond Maintenance & Winter Preparation, Call Us 585-442-6373
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Offering Fall Pond Maintenance Services & Landscape Ideas For Rochester, Monroe County, NY
Looking for Fall Pond Maintenance or Landscape Ideas In Greece, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373 Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Fall 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 |
Pond Service|Review|Rochester New York|NY
Click here to see review on Houzz
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)
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Summer Pond Maintenance|Tips|Services|Rochester New York|NY
Summer Pond Maintenance Tips For Rochester New York
Pond Owners
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. |
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. |
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. |
- 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.
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Summer Pond Maintenance By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)
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
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.
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
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
Sterilizer VS. Clarifier
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
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
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)
Right...The First Time!
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When Your Pond Begins To Thaw |Rochester|New York|NY|Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Spring Pond Maintenance & Cleaning Tips For Rochester, Monroe County (NY) Pond Owners
Depending on where you live in Rochester, Monroe County, NY, your backyard pond might be showing the first signs of thawing … or it may be another week or two before that happens. No matter your geographic location, if you are in Rochester NY or Pittsford, Brighton, Fairport, Webster or beyond in the Monroe County (NY) area here are some tips to follow when your pond begins to thaw. |
Depending on what type of pump you are operating, it is also a good idea to remove the impeller and clean inside the impeller opening. Most pumps that don’t start immediately in the spring can be easily fixed with a good cleaning. If the pump doesn’t run right away it can be soaked overnight in a mild, acid-like white vinegar or CLR. Rinse off the pump and it should be ready for operation. Remember … never to run the pump dry. It must be submersed! |
- Remove any leaves and debris left over from the previous season.
- Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls to get on our spring Pond Cleaningschedule early. Space is limited before we our start pond constructionseason in the Rochester, Monroe County (NY) area.
- It may also be a good time to do a partial water change or complete pond cleaning. Make sure to condition tap water with Aquascape Pond Detoxifier which makes tap-water safe for fish and plants.
- Time to get the pond running; if you have removed your pump for the winter, simply make sure it is clean and ready for operation. If your pump has been left in the pond over the winter months, it’s probably due for a good cleaning. Remove any debris surrounding the pump and also clean the impeller.
- While your pond is running, check for any leaks or repairs it may need.
Don’t worry if you see a lot of unwanted string algae as it’s normal to have string algae in the spring. Unfortunately there’s nothing utilizing nutrients being produced by decaying organics and/or fish populations. Don’t panic! Plants will soon start to grow and beneficial bacteria populations will quickly reestablish themselves taking care of excess nutrients. |
Coldwater Beneficial Bacteria can be added all winter as it has specially formulated strains of bacteria that work in cold water temperatures up to 60°F, with a peak performance between temperatures of 35°F to-40°F. Once temperatures are above 60°F you can transition over to Aquascape Beneficial Bacteria for Ponds, dry or liquid. |
Call Acorn Now! 585-442-6373 For Spring Pond Cleaning & Maintenance Services In Rochester (NY)
Pond Maintenance|Service|Award|Rochester New York|NY
Demand The Best, Have it Installed Right…The First Time!
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About Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls provides Rochester, NY with the absolute best design, installation & maintenance services available for your new or existing Pond or Water Feature in Rochester (NY) and the surrounding towns of Pittsford, Webster, Irondequoit, Brighton, Henrietta and more in the Monroe County New York area.
Have Your New Water Feature Or Backyard Pond Professionally Installed By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)
The Key To Clean Water For Fish Ponds In The Rochester, NY Area
Maintaining Water Quality
Most Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) water gardeners are aware of the importance good quality water plays in a pond habitat. Not knowing how to get or keep water quality can prove challenging to some pond owners. Your water may be perfectly clear, but your fish may not be acting like you’re used to seeing, which can tip you off that something might be a little off in your pond’s water. Before you make any rash decisions on treating your water garden, ask yourself the following questions: |
How Many Fish Should Be In My Pond?
How Much Do I Feed My Fish?No more than once per day is recommended and no more than your fish can eat in 2 to 3 minutes (if you have an ecosystem pond with plants) – then remove all excess, leftover food. |
How Many Plants Should I Have?
What Water Treatments Should I Use?
At Acorn Ponds we use only Aquascape water treatments because we know they work. Acorn highly recommends adding beneficial bacteria to you pond or water garden regularly to keep it looking it's best. |
How Do I Know If My Pump Is The Correct Size For My Pond?
What Does It Mean If There Is A Lot Of Decaying Debris On The Bottom Of My Pond?
Decaying debris, combined with fish waste and leftover fish food, can cause ammonia levels to spike in your pond. Clean out your pond and add beneficial microbes such as Aquascape’s Beneficial Bacteria to help keep it that way. |
What Type Of Filtration Should I Have?
How Often Should I Clean My Filter?
Most filters need to be cleaned no more than once or twice per year. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for details on your specific filter type. Filters in your pond skimmer can be cleaned more frequently to remove fish waste and debris in the net. Biofalls filter media only needs to be cleaned in the spring during spring pond maintenance and can be cleaned again late summer by Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls of Rochester, Monroe County, NY. We always recommend cleaning all filter media for winter storage. |
What Should My Pond's Water Temperature Be?
Water exceeding 75º F has a more difficult time retaining acceptable levels of dissolved oxygen. This is why it’s important to have your pond shaded by aquatic plants, which should provide shade cover to 40% to 60% of the surface area of your pond. It’s also why you need adequate circulation in your pond. |
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Offering Fish Pond Installation Services &
Landscape Design Ideas-Rochester, Monroe County, NY
Looking for Fish Pond Installation Services or Landscape Design Ideas In Webster, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Pond Installation 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 |
Maintain Your Fish Pond Water Quality And Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester New York (NY) 585-442-6373
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Pond Plants|Lilies|How To Get More Flowers|Tips|Rochester|NY|New York|Near Me
Aquatic Pond Plant Ideas For Rochester, NY
During the first year of planting waterlilies, the spread of the lily leaves only covers a small portion of your backyard pond.
The second year, you’ll notice there are more leaves, they are larger, and there are many flowers.
The third or fourth year, you start noticing that the leaves are a little smaller and maybe there are a few less flowers. Another sign that it’s time to divide the waterlily, is when you try to fertilize the plants but can’t because the pot it’s too crowded.
Dividing water lilies is simple and best done in the spring when the plant is coming out of dormancy and just beginning to grow – when you see the first small leaves reaching the surface. Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls can perform this task while do your spring pond cleaning service. To divide the water lily, take the pot out of the pond and dump the contents onto a sturdy work surface. |
Contact Us If You Would Like Us To Divide Your Aquatic Plants During Your Annual
Spring Pond Cleaning Service In Rochester NY!
Don’t be surprised if the potted water lily you started with yields as many as 10 or 20 more water lily plants after you’re all done.
All this cutting and dividing will be hard on the plant and the new little plantlets will take a month or so to really start growing and flowering.
If you must divide in season, a good way around a full-blown division is to just cut some of the tubers from the pot, fill the holes with soil, fertilize, and cover with rocks.
A New Home For Your Water Plants
The smaller the pot, the less space there is for the plant to grow, the less leaves and flowers you’ll see on the plant, and the sooner the plant will have to be divided and/or re-potted.
To re-pot a potted waterlily into a larger pot, remove the waterlily from the original pot, and place it into the new pot. Add enough soil to fill the pot, and fertilize according to label instructions. Cover the soil with gravel larger than the mouths of the fish in the pond to keep them from rooting in the soil.
To pot a newly-divided or bare root waterlily, first fill 2/3 of the pot up with Aquascape Aquatic Planting Media or nutrient rich topsoil. Make a hole for the water lily tuber close to the edge of the pot. Place the water lily tuber with the cut end next to the edge of the pot so the growth tip of the tuber has room to grow across the pot. Place a fertilizer tablet in front of the growth tip of each tuber. As a rule of thumb, place up to three tubers in an 8 to 10 inch pot and up to five tubers in a 16-inch pot. Water lilies should be divided after two full growing seasons or sooner if warranted. |
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Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Aquatic Pond Plant Services & Landscape
Ideas-Rochester, Monroe County, NY
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, Honeyoye Falls, Gates Chili, Parma, Palma, Charlotte, NY, Near Me
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Cleaning A Fish Pond In Rochester Monroe County NY (New York)
In Rochester, Monroe County NY, The best time to clean a fish pond is the early spring, before your water garden completely awakens from its winter dormancy – ideally before the water temperature in the pond creeps above 55º F. If a clean-out is performed when the water is warmer, after bacteria colonies form, the balance of the ecosystem will again be thrown off and your pond will go through another “green phase” before the bacteria colonies re-establish themselves again. |
When should I clean my fish pond?
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls highly recommends that you clean your pond every spring. If there is a layer of “crud” at the bottom of the pond and the water is dark in color, it would be a good idea to do a full clean-out.
Some Related Fish Pond Info:
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls- Offering Rochester, Monroe
County, NY-Spring Pond Cleaning Services & Landscape Design Ideas
Looking for Spring Fish Pond Cleaning Services or Landscape Design Ideas In Brighton, NY? If you don't see your town below, give us a call 585.442.6373 Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Pond Cleaning 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 |
Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) 585-442-6373 To Clean Your Fish Pond
Winter Pond Maintenance | Birds & Wildlife| Rochester|New York| NY
Winter Pond Maintenance For Birds & Wildlife In Rochester New York (NY)
In winter, water can be hard for birds to find, especially during long spells without snow. When forced to eat snow for their moisture, their body must work to warm it up. And when the sun is out, you will see birds hopping from rock to rock in search of melting ice near the water’s edge. All of this takes valuable energy. |
You can make life easier in the winter by leaving open water in your pond in a place that is easily accessible to the birds. You can do this with a pump that moves the water, preventing it from freezing, and/or with a low-voltage floating heater. Be sure to place these near the edge of your pond so the open water is easily accessible to the birds. |
Don’t forget to feed the birds who come to visit your pond. As with water, it is sometimes hard for them to find enough food during the winter. In addition to store-bought bird feed and suet, include native trees and shrubs in your landscape that offer edible fruit for the birds. |
Winter Pond Maintenance Services By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester New York (NY) Call Us 585-442-6373
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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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