​NY|WHY HIRE US? Pond Contractor Reviews|Pond services|Rochester|New York|Near MeAcorn Ponds & Waterfalls specialize in backyard fish (Koi) pond & water features design, maintenance & construction in Rochester & Western counties of New York (NY). Please take a moment to watch this video of our clients as they go over their experiences with us. Choose Acorn to help you add a little bit of paradise to your gardens. 585-442-6373 Our Other Pond Services Include: Cleaning, Maintenance, Repair & Renovation Of Water Features & Backyard Water Gardens Rochester New York (NY) Have Your New Water Feature Or Backyard Pond Professionally Installed By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY)Some Helpful Pond Info Blogs
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What To Do When Your Fish Pond Freezes Over|Rochester|NY|New York|Near MeUpon arriving to my Rochester New York (NY) home after being out of town this March, I discovered my fish pond had completely frozen over. My floating pond de-icer and and solid handling pump were not running and my gfi outlet was tripped. It is very important for the health of your koi and pond fish to keep an opening in the ice so the toxic gases of decomposing plants and organic matter can escape and not get trapped under the ice. Use this as a reminder to check on your ponds throughout the winter and make sure there is an opening in the ice.
If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Helpful Pond Info Links:Fall Pond Maintenance|Rochester New York|NY|Near Me
With a couple precautions and a little fall pond maintenance, they can! Debris cleanup from the fall may be inevitable especially in Rochester NY, but you’ll need to pay special attention if you’re pond or pondless waterfall has heavy tree cover. A skimmer filter may not be able to keep up with catching all the leaves before they drop to the pond’s bottom and decompose. Removing leaves and sticks with a net will make for an easier spring clean-out next year. Debris left to rot in the pond will eventually decompose, producing gases that may be harmful to your fish.
In this case, using a large pond net stretched over the pond can be helpful because it will catch the leaves before they even hit the water. Plus, you can use a leaf blower to clear the area, meaning less work for you Regardless of whether you have a lot of trees or a minimal amount leaves falling, autumn is still a time when you’ll need to empty the debris net or bag of your pond skimmer more often than you were in the summer – usually on a daily basis. It’s also a great time to tend to your plants. It’s sad to see them go, but you definitely don’t want their debris falling to the pond bottom. Here Is A Breakdown Of How To Care For Each Of Your Pond Plants As The Fall Season Unfolds.
Hardy Marginals Pond PlantsAs with terrestrial, perennial plants, dropping temperatures signal your hardy aquatic plants to prepare for their winter dormancy. At this time, you should stop fertilizing them as you see leaves begin to yellow and brown. It’s ok to leave these plants where they are in your pond to weather the cold of winter, just be sure to trim the dying foliage of your marginal plants down to 2” above the water level.
Tropical Marginals Pond PlantsIn warm climates, tropical marginals will keep growing and will require fertilizer as usual. Water gardeners who live in Zones colder than 8 or 9 will need to treat these plants as they would any garden annual by replacing them each season. A fun alternative to this is to treat them as tropical houseplants and bring them in for the winter. Most tropical marginals will do well potted in heavy garden soil in a sealed clay pot with no drainage holes. When kept wet, the plants do well in a sunny window or sunroom.
Waterlilies Pond PlantsWaterlilies will also begin to show their dislike for the cold with yellowing leaves and fewer flowers. When this happens, the leaf and flower stems of hardy water lilies should be cut back to about 2 to 3” above the base of the plant. In warm climates, tropical waterlilies are happy in the pond year round, as long as the water temperature stays above 60°F. In areas where freezing is likely, plants should be overwintered indoors. This can be a difficult task; therefore many gardeners choose to simply buy a new plant each season.
Lotus Pond PlantAs with the marginals in your pond, the foliage of your lotus plants will need to be trimmed back after they have died back and turned brown. It’s important not to cut the leaves while they are still green because the freshly cut, hollow stems are susceptible to disease which can spread to the plant’s tuber, possibly killing the plant. Lotus tubers will not withstand freezing, so any plants that are growing in the shallow areas of your pond should be moved to the bottom, away from freezing water. Caring for your aquatic plants in the fall will mean less work and healthier plants come spring. In late fall, when your leaves have stopped dropping, it is also time when your winter preparation should be starting. Properly winterizing a pond at this time of year will make it easier for your spring clean-out. We Recommend Fully Draining & Cleaning Your Koi Fish Pond At Least Once Every Year Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373Some Helpful Links:Effective Way To Filter Pond Water | Rochester NY| Acorn Ponds & WaterfallsOne 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. The Job of a Pond Skimmer
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. Biological Filtration Goes to Work
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 Science Behind The Design For Pond FiltrationMechanical 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. The Role of Aquatic Pond Plants
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. 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) 585-442-6373Some Helpful Links:How To Fix Fish Pond| Waterfall | leaks |Rochester|New York|NYIs There A Leak In Your Pond, Or Are Your Frogs & Fish Drinking All The Water?Leaks are among the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed problems anyone can have in their Rochester New York (NY) pond or waterfall. Understanding the basic principles of leak detection and repair will save you time, money, and headaches in your water gardening adventures … I guarantee it!  What Is Evaporation?First, let's have a look at what evaporation is and what it isn't. Evaporation is caused by water turning into a vapor and escaping from your pond. The amount of water loss will vary according to the region of the country and the time of year. Ponds that are located in areas of the country with moderate temperatures and high humidity can expect to see 1 to 1 ½ inches of water loss per week during the spring and summer. Most of this evaporation should be replaced naturally by rain. However, if you live in an area with high temperatures and low humidity, it's possible to see 3 inches or more of evaporation in a week. The quantity and size of your waterfall(s) will also affect the amount of water that is lost. Regardless of the climate, a 4'x 6'pond with a 20-foot stream and 5 feet of cascading waterfalls may lose as much as 2 inches or more every day! Why? Splashing and moving water has greater exposure to additional evaporation than does the still water in the pond. If that same pond was 16' x 21' pond, you'd probably never even notice the additional evaporation because it's a larger pond. What It Isn't Evaporation is not filling your pond up all the way one evening, and waking up the next morning to find the water six inches lower. That's a leak! If your pond is experiencing a loss of water at a more rapid rate, you either have a leak, or your frogs are drinking the water. Seriously, let's figure that it's a leak. What do you do then?  Low EdgesLook for any low edges. Settling at the pond's edge is the most common cause of a leak, especially in a new pond. Typically, the low edges are found around the stream and waterfall where settling may have occurred after a few rainfalls. These areas are usually built up during the construction of the pond using the soil from the excavation, and are prone to some settling. Your first line of defense is to carefully inspect the edges of not only your stream and waterfall, but also the perimeter of the pond. As the dirt around the stream or waterfall settles, it can create low spots that may cause water to escape over the edge of the liner. Keep your eyes peeled for wet mulch or gravel, or muddy areas around the perimeter of yourpond. If you find a spot that's leaking, all you have to do is lift the liner up and push some soil under it in order to raise the edge. Bingo – leak fixed! Another possibility is that water is splashing out of your stream. To fix a "splash leak," all you have to do is adjust a few of the rocks under and around your waterfall. This will contain or redirect the splash and it will stop the splash leak. Once again, you've solved the problem the easy and cost-effective way ... using common sense. Low edges can be built back up by simply backfilling and compacting soil beneath the liner in order to raise the edge of the liner above the water level.  Obstructions In The Stream And Waterfalls In addition to checking for low edges, you should also check your stream and waterfall. Rocks and excessive plant or algae growth in the stream or BIOFALLS filter can restrict the flow of water and divert it over the edge of the liner. Plants and algae should be maintained by trimming them back in order to let the water pass freely. All in all, these leaks are extremely easy to fix Still Leaking?You've spent 15 minutes or so following the suggestions listed above and you still can't find the leak. What do you do next? It's time for a little more work, and some drastic measures. You'll have to shut your pump off for a day. By doing this, you'll be able to determine the approximate location of the leak.
When The Water Drops
Now the fun begins! At this point, you may want to consider calling in Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls, but if you want to continue on your own you'll need to:
Steady And LevelIf the water level remains the same, then it is safe to assume that the leak is not in the pond. Now you'll need to check the pipe, the plumbing fittings, and the pump connections for leaks. Another possible culprit is the faceplate of your skimmer, if you have one. If the water level stopped dropping above the bottom of the faceplate you should investigate the skimmer. It may not have sealed correctly. If the Leak Is in the Skimmer
It's not fun when your pond is losing water. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating process to locate the leak. Hopefully with these steps and tips, you can quickly locate the source of the leak and get right back to enjoying your water garden. It’s A Great Time To Upgrade Your Pond.When your pond is in need of repair or a total renovation, it is a great time to look into the upgrades you always wanted. Have you thought about…
If Your Pond Is Experiencing A Leak, Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Info Links: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 Plants Since 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 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. 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:When To Stop Feeding Pond Fish & Koi| Rochester NY You'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) 442-6373 Send us pictures of your dirty pond for a pond cleaning quote and get help now [email protected] 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: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”. |  |
 Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Water Feature Services & Pond (& Plant) Maintenance Contractors in Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) |  Place pump in a bucket of water so the rubber seals do not dry out and crack. |
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.
* 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) 585-442-6373
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! |
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. |  Keep an opening in the ice to let gases from decomposing leaves escape |
Energy Efficient
 Use in conjunction with aerators and solid handling pumps! | 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
| The Pond De-Icers stainless steel construction is extremely durable and prevents corrosion, cracking or issues caused by extreme weather. A built-in LED light at the top of the De-Icer allows you to look out the window of your warm home and see that the De-Icer is still operating. |  |
Taking the time to properly prepare your water feature for winter will make sure the fish survive their winter slumber.
Hire Acorn To Take Care of All Your Pond Maintenance Needs In Rochester NY! Call Tom At
(585) 442-6373
Contact us early (space is limited) to get on our fall pond maintenance schedule to ensure your fish will be well cared for before the arrival of winter.
 Contact us now to get on our fall pond maintenance list in Rochester, Monroe County, NY |  Get on our list for fall pond tenting & cleaning in Rochester, Monroe County, NY |
Helpful Links:
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?
In Rochester, Monroe County, NY, a very common question for us is "what should I do with my pond in the winter?" A nip in the air, shorter days, and the shedding of multi-colored leaves from the trees signifies a changing of the seasonal guard.
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.
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.
Pond Tenting Systems can be installed as part of the Fall Maintenance Programs by Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls if you live in the Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) area.
- 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
 Greece NY's Trusted Certified Aquascape Contractor Since 2004 | 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
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)
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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. |  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.
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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)
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Right...The First Time!
Right...The First Time!
 Pond Cleaning Services, Rochester, NY. |  Pond Netting Services, Rochester, NY. |
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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. |  Check on your Rochester, Monroe County, NY ponds! |
 Clean your pump impeller in Rochester, NY | 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. |  Learn about pond water treatments for Rochester, Monroe County New York (NY) |
 Spring is the best time for pond cleaning in Rochester, Monroe County, NY |  Get on our spring pond cleaning schedule in Rochester, Monroe County, NY |
Call Acorn Now! 585-442-6373 For Spring Pond Cleaning & Maintenance Services In Rochester (NY)
Pond Maintenance|Service|Award|Rochester New York|NY
Rochester, NY, March 3, 2015 – Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls of Rochester, New York has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. The leading Pond Installation & Maintenance Company in Rochester NY and srrounding towns of Pittsford, Fairport, Penfield, Greece, Webster and more in the Monroe County New York area was chosen by the more than 25 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 500,000 active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.
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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.
Demand The Best, Have it Installed Right…The First Time!
Follow Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls on Houzz
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: |  Click the image to learn more about stream & Waterfall construction in Rochester, Monroe County NY |
How Many Fish Should Be In My Pond?
If you have more than 10” of fish for every 100 gallons of water, you may have too many fish and should consider finding some of them a new home or building a second home for some of them. It may be time to expand, remodel, renovate or enlarge your existing backyard pond! Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls for more info.
 Click the image to learn about pond fish in Rochester, NY. | 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?
At season’s peak, you should have no more than 40% to 60% of the surface area of your pond either covered or shaded by plants. Too many plants can cause oxygen deficiencies at night due to the photosynthetic process, where the plants take in oxygen and give off carbon dioxide.
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. |  Click the image to learn more about pond water treatments in Rochester, NY. |
How Do I Know If My Pump Is The Correct Size For My Pond?
You should be turning over, or circulating, the entire pond’s volume a minimum of once every hour. Make sure your pump’s flow isn’t restricted by debris or trying to pump water higher than it was intended. Every pump has its flow limitations. See the side of your pump box for information.
What Does It Mean If There Is A Lot Of Decaying Debris On The Bottom Of My Pond?
 Click to learn more about Pond Filters in Rochester, Monroe County, NY. | 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. |  Click the image to learn more about pond maintenance in Rochester, Monroe County, NY. |
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
 Webster NY's Trusted Certified Aquascape Contractor Since 2004. | 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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Right...The First Time!
Right...The First Time!
 Sign for pond cleaning services in Webster,NY! |  Sign up now for fall pond maintenance in Webster, NY! |
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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
Click the image to learn more about pond plants. Have you noticed that leaves on your waterlilies are getting smaller in Rochester, Monroe County, New York (NY), or that they’re flowering less? If you answered yes, your waterlilies have become root bound and it’s time to divide them.
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.
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. |  Ecosystem fish ponds, Rochester, Monroe County, New York (NY) |
Contact Us If You Would Like Us To Divide Your Aquatic Plants During Your Annual
Spring Pond Cleaning Service In Rochester NY!
Pond plants & lilies in Rochester, Monroe County, New York (NY) With your fingers, feel along the tubers about four inches from the growth tip. This is where you will cut off the tuber with a sharp knife or hand pruners.
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.
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
Click to learn more about aquatic plants. Whether you’re re-potting a new, potted waterlily or brand new plantlets from your dividing project, the ideal pot size is 16 inches. If that is not possible, then a 10-inch pot will do.
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.
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.
 Click to learn more about pond fish in Rochester, Monroe County NY | 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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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 Aquatic Pond Plant Services & Landscape
Ideas-Rochester, Monroe County, NY
Rochester NY' Trusted Pond Service Company Since 2004 Looking for Aquatic Pond Plant Services or Landscape 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, Honeyoye Falls, Gates Chili, Parma, Palma, Charlotte, NY, Near Me
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?
Spring is simply the most exciting time of year. As things slowly awaken from their winter hibernation, there are some things that you can do to make sure your water feature gets off to a good start this spring.
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.
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
 Brighton NY's Trusted Certified Aquascape Contractor Since 2004. | 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
 Spring pond cleaning services in Brighton, NY! |  Fall pond maintenance services in Brighton, NY |
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. |  |
Use an aerator & floating heater to keep an opening in your Rochester, Monroe County, NY water garden
 Also important for the fish! | 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. |  |
 Get your pond & water gardens cleaned & serviced in Rochester, Monroe County, NY |  Your pond questions get answered here! |
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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