NY|Pleasures Of Koi Fish In Rochester|New York|Near MePond fish in Rochester NY such as the beloved koi fish play an important role in the nitrogen cycle of an ecosystem pond. Not only do koi dine on algae, but they provide a beautiful flash of color as they glide in and out of waterlilies. Koi and other pond fish make great outdoor pets … even learning to eat right out of your hand, if you’re patient! When you have a water garden of your very own, you’ll grow to love your fish as much as you love your cat or dog!
Another koi fish beauty skims the surface of the pond. They say not to name your fish, fearing you’ll become too attached. But when you see their personality reflected in the water garden, how could you resist naming your finned friends? The Joy Of Baby KoiIf you have fish in your pond, sooner or later they are going to have babies. Late spring to early summer usually marks the time of year when koi and goldfish start to spawn. When koi and goldfish spawn, they produce thousands of eggs but very few actually survive and grow up into baby fish. Koi are egg “scatterers,” meaning they generally deposit their eggs on the bottom of the pond or in plants. The eggs hatch a few days after although you probably won’t be able to see them for several weeks because they are too small. At this stage in development, the babies will feed off of all sorts of microorganisms in your pond. After a couple months the babies are about an inch long and may start eating commercial food. In order to “bulk” them up, look for a food that has high protein content. Depending on the pellet size, it may be necessary to crush them in order for the babies to eat the food. By the end of summer you’ll have to decide whether to bring the babies inside or let them over-winter in the pond. If you decide to let them over-winter outside, they may or may not survive because they don’t have enough fat reserve to tide them over. If you decide to bring them in, make sure you have a large enough tank with adequate filtration because they will continue to grow inside. Another thing to remember is that if your pond babies continue to survive year after year, sooner or later they are going to get big and could overcrowd your pond. If you plan on keeping some of the babies, understand that eventually you may have to get rid of (cull) some of them. Watching the baby fish grow up is fun and the whole process is a great learning experience for kids and adults, alike. How many koi fish do you have in your water garden, and have you named them? If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Links:
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5 Tips For Feeding Pond Fish|How Much Food Should I Give My Koi|Rochester|NY|New York|Near MeFeeding your pond fish in Rochester NY is a fun activity that the whole family will enjoy. In the beginning, after you first bring your fish home, they will be a little shy and not seem interested in what you’re feeding them. Don’t worry too much about this; just sprinkle a little food in the pond and move back. After a few minutes, they will take an interest and eat. 1. Be ConsistentThe key is to be consistent, try to feed at the same time each day, and from the same spot. After a few weeks in your pond,they will be conditioned to you feeding them and the response will be considerably different. After a complete season, you will have them eating out of your hand. 2. Serve High Quality FoodSince everything you put into the pond is going to be broken down and removed by the filter, it is important to remember to only feed them high quality food. Feeding them anything other than high quality fish food could lead to many water quality issues like green water, string algae, and poor water conditions. 3. Variety is the Spice of LifeMany pond owners also choose to offer their fish a treat now and again. If you want to spice things up a bit, try a little fresh watermelon and watch your fish go crazy. Most fruits and vegetables will be fine as well, just keep in mind that the natural ecosystem has to deal with every bit we feed them or that is left in the pond. 4. The Five Minute RuleA good rule of thumb is to only offer what your fish can eat in four or five minutes. The decision to feed your fish is up to you. Many pond owners never throw a single piece of food into their pond. Your pond will produce food for your fish to eat and also help create a balance between plants and fish. Remember, however, that larger fish need more food than small ones, so they may take a look at your plants for a snack. Not to mention the fact that if you are not feeding your fish, you are missing out on another whole level of fun that your pond has to offer. 5. Choosing the Best Fish FoodStudies have been done comparing the digestion of protein from various sources in fish, and found that fish proteins were the best digested and assimilated by fish. Fish eat fish. Fish are adapted to the consumption of others in their food chain, so fish proteins are the best for fish. When you look at a bag of food and the first ingredient is wheat, is that the best choice for your fish? No, wheat protein is not equal to fish protein so keep looking. You should look for fish or other aquaculture proteins as the first ingredient in a decent diet for your koi and goldfish If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Helpful Pond Info Links:How To Add Fish To A Pond|Pond Clean-out|New Fish|Koi|Goldfish|Rochester|New York|NY|Near MeWhen adding fish (koi or goldfish) to a new pond or after a clean-out or complete water change, it's best to wait a minimum of 72 hours for the water chemistry and temperature of the pond to stabilize here in Rochester & Western (NY). Make sure to add a double dose of Aquascape Pond Detoxifier when first filling the pond to neutralize chlorine and chloramine, reduce fish stress, and detoxify heavy metals. Start with a few fish and build the population slowly. During Shipment, Fish Are Under Extreme Stress. It Is Very Important To Follow These Instructions Closely.Unpack the fish from the transport box and float the bag in the pond for approximately 20 minutes. During this time the temperature in the bag will adjust to your pond's current water temperature. Avoid floating pond fish in direct sunlight; cover the plastic bag with an old towel, cloth, or something that will shade the bag without sinking it. If the pond fish are purchased locally and not transported for a long period of time, you can help acclimatize the fish after floating by opening the bag and adding approximately 20% pond water by volume. We also recommend adding Aquascape Pond Detoxifier to the water contained in the bag as well as to the pond itself. Pond Detoxifier will neutralize any ammonia produced by the fish during transport, regenerate damage to the mucus membrane caused by netting, and reduce stress during acclimatization. Be careful not to leave the fish in the open bag for too long as available oxygen will quickly be consumed. If you have an air pump you can also drop a small air stone into the open bag to ensure proper oxygenation. After approximately 30 minutes, your fish are ready to be introduced to their new home. Scoop the fish out of the bag using a soft mesh net and release them into your pond. Discard the remaining water. Never just dump the fish from the bag into the water. This will cause extreme stress and can even cause death if the difference in water temperature and chemistry is extreme. The fish will probably head for the bottom of the pond and stay there until they become familiar with their new surroundings. Don't be alarmed as this is quite normal. Fish should be fed on the 2nd or 3rd day after introduction. Build & Maintain Your Fish (KOI) Pond With Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls – Call Today! 585-442-6373Other Helpful Pond Info Links:Custom Installed Waterfalls For Your Listening Pleasure In Rochester New York (NY) Gardens5/23/2018 NY|Waterfalls|Installation|Repair|Services|Rochester|New York|Near MeWaterfalls add delightful sound to the garden and Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls offers custom design, installation and repair services for your waterfall listening pleasure here in Rochester & Western New York (NY). If you live near busy traffic, you might want a grand waterfall to drown out the noise of cars rushing by. But if you live in the country, a small idyllic stream or waterfall can create just the right melody for harmonizing with crickets and birds. Whatever your fancy, the perfect waterfall can be created just for you ... so sit a spell and enjoy!
Build & Maintain Your Water Feature With Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls - Call Today! 585-442-6373Top 10 Features To Add To Your Pond|Rochester New York|NY|Acorn PondsYou add new plants to your Rochester New York (NY) gardens, and you might even add a new patio or deck in your yard. Why stop there? Consider adding a new item or two to your pond this year to change things up. We've drafted a list of our top 10 favorite features or enhancements to add to your existing pond. 1. FountainFountains not only add beauty to your pond, but they provide valuable aeration as well. If you think your existing waterfall isn't adding quite enough oxygen to your pond, consider adding a fountain. You can place it in the center, or near the edge of a pond for drama. 2. Water Lily
3. LightingThe addition of garden and pond lighting extends your viewing pleasure well into the evening hours. Lights placed behind waterfalls create excitement and drama during the nighttime hours. Underwater lights at the edges of the pond reflect off the fish as they swim by. Set your lights on a timer so you never have to worry about turning them off and on. 4. Fish
5. Adjustable Flow Pump
6. Spitter7. Ionizer System
8. Floating Pond PlantsUse a floating plant island to display plants in deeper areas of your pondwhere there aren't any plant shelves. The floating planter keeps the soil intact and lets water in while protecting the plants from your fish. 9. Automatic Dosing System
10. Waterfall
Have Your Pond Professionally Built & Maintained By Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester (NY) (585) 442-6373Do Koi & Pond Fish Sleep?|KOI Fish Habits|Rochester|New York|NY|Near MeFish Actually SleepNot in the same manner that we understand, but koi & pond fish do sleep in Rochester NY & beyond. Fish do not have eyelids so they are unable to close their eyes. Instead, fish catch periods of rest by floating in one place or nestling into a cozy spot at the bottom of your pond. They Sometimes Get Stressed OutKoi show stress by blushing red in their fins and on their bodies. This is caused by a stressful environment, such as poor water quality. It’s their way of showing you, their caretaker, that something is wrong. They Have Teeth, My Dear Koi are equipped with rather large teeth at the back of their throat. They do not use them defensively or aggressively but rather to process any hard-to-chew food they come across at the pond bottom. Boy Or Girl? Female koi tend to have rounder bodies and smaller, rounded pectoral fins while male koi are larger, have a sleeker shape, and their pectoral fins are larger and pointed. Hear, Hear!Koi hear through a type of amplifying system called a Weberian apparatus that other fish do not have. It consists of four pairs of bones called ossicles that connect the inner ear to the swim bladder. The connection of the air chamber to the inner ear greatly improves their ability to hear. If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373Some Helpful Pond Info Links:Garden Lighting|LED Water Feature|Landscape|Lighting|Services|Rochester|New York|NY|Near MeRochester New York (NY) gardens look great with water features during the day, but when pond and garden lighting is used to enhance evening views, you'll find the landscape takes on a whole new dimension! Tuck a spotlight behind a waterfall and the feature takes on a magical feel. Used in the main portion of a pond, you'll enjoy watching fish dart in and out of the lights. As the sun begins to set, pond and garden lighting creates a magical mood in the landscape. Think of that vacation you experienced at the beach, and the serene feeling you enjoyed watching the moon cast a glowing trail over the ocean's surface. When you add waterfall or underwater lighting to your water feature, you extend your viewing pleasure well into the evening. You can add lights during the installation of your water feature, or add more later if you see dark spots you'd like to highlight. It's always a joy to watch fish swim in and out of lights. Be sure to incorporate LED lights which use approximately 80-90% less electricity and last 10 times longer than their halogen counterparts. Place a single bullet light in a container water garden or fountain bowl for a dramatic and interesting effect. Add Underwater Lighting To Your Water Feature Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373Some Helpful Links:How To Get Rid Of Pond Algae|Rochester New York|NY|AcornPonds&WaterfallsThe annual ritual of the spring clean-out for the pond or water garden is just the answer. Physically changing the water in your pond, not just treating it,immediately reduces nutrient levels. Removing the leaves, branches, sludge, and other organic debris in your pond removes the source of nutrient build up. Cleaning your filters and starting up your pond system starts breaking down and controlling the remaining nutrients. Get Rid Of Pond Algae - Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373Do You Want To Remove Your Algae?Small Backyard Ponds Rochester|NY|Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Small ponds are an attractive option in Rochester New York (NY) for a number of reasons! If you’re under the impression that a pond simply won’t fit in your yard … think again! Ponds come in a variety of shapes and sizes and their versatility is what makes them such a great addition to your landscape … in addition to the music of the waterfalls and the birds and butterflies they attract. You might not think to use big rocks for a smaller pond, but a few boulders create focal points, softened by aquatic plants. The flat rock on the left is a perfect spot to sit and dangle tired tootsies in the water. The waterfall is in proportion to these small ponds, nestled snug against the corner of a patio. This used to be a boring patch of grass, but now the homeowners love sitting outside to drink in this view. A waterfall and winding stream spill gently into this small pond. A mix of aquatic and terrestrial plants mingle with the rocks and water. Not sure what to do with that empty space beneath an outdoor staircase? Add a waterfall and pond! This one tucks nicely into this once unused area next to a lower level patio. Transform Your Landscape Into An Extension Of Your HomeWhether you choose a small 4’x6′ pond or something much larger, you won’t regret sprinkling your landscape with a little water. Hire Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) To Install Your Backyard Pond . Call Today! (585) 442-6373NY|What Is An Exploratory Pond Cleaning|Water Feature|Service|Rochester|New York|Near MePond (Exploratory & Analyzation) Cleaning Services - Rochester New York (NY) |
Are you buying a home or have you recently purchased one that has a water feature or pond in Rochester or Western New York (NY) and would it be a good idea to hire a professional pond company to clean, assess, and educate you on the system you have? Having a true pond professional (Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls) figure out and explain everything to you regarding your new water garden and what it is that you need to do for maximum enjoyment can save a lot of headaches down the road. |
Peace Of Mind With Your New Water Garden
As we know not all ponds are created equal and having extensive pond knowledge will allow a good pond contractor to help guide you. Let's face it, "peace of mind" is everything! It is a state of mental and emotional calmness, with no worries, fears or stress. In the state, the mind is quiet and you can experience a sense of happiness and freedom. Escaping from the stress of life by a beautiful and enjoyable pond will definitely create "Peace Of Mind". |
The first step is to drain out all the water in the pond to see what is going on. All aquatic life(fish, frogs, etc.) are placed in large holding tubs. The plants remain in the pond. Once the water is out, everything in the pond is examined and explained to the homeowners. It is always important for one homeowner to be present to actually see and understand what is happening. This is time well spent as trying to understand through a phone conversation can be very difficult. The filters are also cleaned and inspected at the time of service. At the end of the cleaning Acorn Ponds provide the homeowner (a written report if desired) a report of all their findings. Basically, the Acorn Ponds team will explain to a new pond owner what they have, and what they can do to make it better and lower maintenance. |
We Recommend Fully Draining & Cleaning Your Koi Fish Pond At Least Once Every Year Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
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Recreational Pond Build During Pondemonium 2017 - Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls of Rochester NY
4/12/2018
NY|Recreational Pond Build|Pondemonium 2017|Rochester|New York|Near Me
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls of Rochester (NY) travels to Chicago in August 2017 to help in the construction of another recreational pond as well as learn state of the art pond building techniques led by Brian and Ed from Aquascape Inc.
Tom of Acorn has been attending conferences and pond builds every year since 2004 and "this was one of the best" says Tom. The pond was part of a backyard renovation is 30'x60' and 6' deep with a 75' stream, 15,000 gallon reservoir to capture rainwater and has a 15'x20' wetland filter and bottom up-flow system to keep the water crystal clear. Aquabloks and a 4” drain were installed under the pond as part of an Infrastructure that will protect the pond for years to come.
Also included in the design of this beautiful natural stone water garden/swimming pond were multiple waterfalls with diving rocks, led lighting system, a bubbling boulder, skim cove or intake bay with external pumping system as well as hardscaping and plantings.
Pond Construction Material Information & Specs
- More than 200,000 tons of rock were used.
- Water storage chamber can store up to 9 inches of water before discharging to street.
- 2 recirculating pumps totaling 30,000 GPH.
- Water is forced through gaps in the flagstone (on pond bottom) to create jets.
Construction Of The Pond
It is always a privilege working alongside some of the best pond builders in the world doing what we all enjoy most....building ponds! Here a few photos below that show the construction of this amazing water feature. I hope we have given you a few landscape ideas that might help you with your backyard project in Rochester NY.
Hire Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) To Install Your Backyard Pond. Call Today! (585) 442-6373
NY|WHY HIRE US? Pond Contractor Reviews|Pond services|Rochester|New York|Near Me
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)
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NY|Pondless Waterfall-Water Feature Construction|2016 Pondemonium|Rochester|New York
The Q Center provides lodging and meeting space for seminars and conferences. The goal of the stunning waterfall was to create a spectacular view from the windows of meeting rooms and lodging spaces, and to draw visitors and attendees out to the expansive patio for networking and dining. Limestone boulders create two waterfalls converging into one.
The waterfall on the left is twice as long as the shorter, steeper waterfall on the right. Underwater LED lighting was added to each waterfall drop for dramatic, nighttime viewing.
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls - Commercial/Residential Water Feature Installers Rochester New York (NY)
Hire Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York (NY) To Install Your Backyard Pond. Call Today! (585) 442-6373
Landscape (Garden) Water Feature Design & Installation Rochester NY Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
3/20/2018
Landscape(Garden)Water Feature|Design&Installation|Rochester|NY|Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
Look No Further For Beautiful Water Feature Ideas In Rochester NY
The sound of water running softly through this lovely water feature provides a relaxing sound that inspires relaxation which makes you want to sit down, relax, and enjoy all the simple pleasures life has to offer. Not only are water features lovely, they will make any space look more aesthetically pleasing and are the next best thing to living on a lovely lake or a sparking fish pond.
Water Feature Description
The owners can sip their morning coffee on the porch and see a myriad of lovely birds and other pretty wildlife stop by for a quick sip of water. It’s a simple pleasure, but it brings a smile to the lives of our Western NY clients in Rochester & Buffalo New York (NY) and we love what we do.
Our unique water features are also easy to maintain! Homeowners worry their new custom water feature requires ample work to maintain, but they do not. Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls design experts are happy to discuss seasonal care of water features with our clients to ensure they’re being cared for properly, no matter the season.
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We're Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
What To Do When Your Fish Pond Freezes Over|Rochester|NY|New York|Near Me
If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
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Customer Review|Koi Pond Repair Services|Pond Company|Rochester New York|NY
"We called Acorn because our pond that was constructed by a different company had turned out to be a disaster for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately for us, the pond had to be totally reconstructed. Thank God we discovered Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls! From the first day we called and talked with Tom, his company has been very professional, showed up on time and their workmanship is second to none.
Tom is very passionate about his work and has shared his ideas on how to keep our pond looking good. The newly renovated pond is so much easier to maintain. I am very pleased with their work and highly recommend them with no reservations whatsoever! Tom, thank you for everything you've done for us. I am so grateful!"
-Carol M.
Penfield New York (NY)
Google+ Review
Build & Maintain Your Pond With Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Of Rochester New York
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
Fall Pond Maintenance|Rochester New York|NY|Near Me
When fall rolls around in our part of the world here in Rochester (NY) New York, the change of seasons is apparent by the beautiful, multi-colored leaves and the cool change in temperatures will remind us to start the fall pond maintenance. It may be your favorite time of year, but how will the cooler temperature and falling leaves affect your aquatic paradise? Can ponds and trees live together peacefully in the fall? |
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.
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 Plants
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 Plants
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 Plants
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 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 585-442-6373
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Effective Way To Filter Pond Water | Rochester NY| Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
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
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 water then flows from the bottom to the top of the filter, traveling through filter media housed inside the unit. The filter media helps with the removal of fine to medium-sized particles. The larger debris was already removed by the skimmer.
As the biological filter fills, it will overflow and cascade over its waterfall lip, cascading down rocks that have been set to create a beautiful and preferably natural-looking waterfall. The waterfall creates aeration for the pond, assisting in the circulation and health of the water. If a slower, stream effect is preferred, the unit simply needs to be sunk lower into the ground.
The Science Behind The Design For Pond Filtration
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
Another important component to pond filtration is the use of plants. Many gardeners add a pond to their landscape for the variety of aquatic plantsavailable, and while their beauty is certainly an aesthetic asset; a critical benefit is the work these plants do to help filter the water. |
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
Have A Well Balance Pond with Aquatic Plants, Fish & Filtration System Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester New York (NY) 585-442-6373
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Women's Council Garden Tour 2017|Water Features|Rochester|New York|NY
Women's Council Garden Tour To Benefit Rochester Museum & Science Center
Saturday, July 15: 10am–4pm
Experience six beautiful gardens in the Rochester area. Proceeds benefit the Rochester Museum & Science Center. Start the tour at the RMSC Cunningham House, 657 East Ave, to pick up the tour booklet and browse the New & Used Garden Item Sale and Raffle.
You may also purchase tickets on tour date at the RMSC Cunningham House or in advance at the locations below:
- The Artful Gardener, 727 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester
- The Bird House, 3035 Monroe Avenue, Rochester
- Blanchard Florist, 3208 Latta Road, Greece
- Gallea’s Greenhouse, 2832 Clover Street, Pittsford
- The Garden Factory, Inc., 2126 Buffalo Road, Rochester
- Genrich’s Garden Center & Greenhouses, 375 Cooper Road, Irondequoit
- Kittelberger Florist & Gifts, 263 North Avenue, Webster
- Parkleigh, 215 Park Avenue, Rochester
- Pittsford Florist, 41 South Main Street, Pittsford
- Rochester Museum & Science Center, 657 East Avenue, Rochester
- Wayside Garden Center, 124 Pittsford-Palmyra Road, Macedon
- Wisteria Flowers & Gifts, Inc., 360 Culver Road, Rochester
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Invite You To Come See Our New Water Feature And Say Hello!
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
How To Fix Fish Pond| Waterfall | leaks |Rochester|New York|NY
Is There A Leak In Your Pond, Or Are Your Frogs & Fish Drinking All The Water?
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?
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
Low Edges
Look 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
Still Leaking?
- Make sure the pond is filled to the appropriate level.
- Unplug the pump.
- Let the pond sit for 24 hours.
- If the water level drops, then you know the leak is in the pond.
When The Water Drops
- To find out where the leak is occurring, allow the water level to continue to drop. The level where the water stops dropping is the level where the leak is located.
- Concentrate your search around the perimeter of the pond at the level that the water has stopped dropping.
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:
- Remove any rocks around the entire perimeter at the level where the water stopped. You can then carefully check for some sort of puncture, or hole in the liner.
- When you find the hole, you simply patch it with a liner patch kit available at pond supply retailers.
- Now you can replace the rocks, fill the pond back to the top, and enjoy!
Steady And Level
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
- Investigate the skimmer faceplate without disassembling it.
- Simply move a few rocks around the front of the skimmer and slide your hand behind the liner, feeling for wet soil around the opening of the skimmer. If the soil is saturated, then the faceplate may have not been installed properly and might be the source of the leak.
- Remove the faceplate, clean all of the old silicone off the liner, and refer back to the instruction manual on proper procedures for sealing the skimmer faceplate to the skimmer. Hopefully, you've solved the leak.
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.
Have you thought about…
- Adding a waterfall to your pond?
- Putting in decorative lights?
- Using a safety edge for added reassurance?
- Adding a stream with your waterfall?
- Installing a bog filter?
If Your Pond Is Experiencing A Leak, Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
Some Helpful Pond Info Links:
How To Protect Pond Fish And Koi From Heron|Rochester|NY|New York|near me
Heron, Stalking A Pond
The floating Alligator is just convincing enough to keep the Heron from swooping in on your oasis. Just be sure to keep the head and body exposed and free from tangling in your plants. These options toward him all offer varying levels of success for every water garden hobbyist.
Pond Predators In Rochester NY
Pond Plants Are Also A Great Measure Against Attacks
For example the lily will show great pad size around this time of year, keeping a healthy cover over your friends. Grasses give extensive root systems for fish to hide in and will give a healthy appearance well into the fall season. Remember, keeping your fish friends happy and healthy is easy with some creativity and a few spare moments. |
ScareCrow
The water will turn on for a couple of seconds and is usually enough to annoy whatever predator may be present. Our clients have had great success with this device in the past!
The Scarecrow doesn’t distinguish between predator or human, so you can watch your friends, family, and even us if we are maintaining your pond get shot by a stream of water! Funny!)
If You Need Help Or Have Any Pond Maintenance Questions, Call Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls In Rochester (NY) 585-442-6373
Some Helpful Pond Info Links:
7 Tips For Planting Your Pond|Backyard Pond Design|Rochester|NY|New York
You can apply many of the same tips and guidelines you use to create your terrestrial flower beds. Things like color, height, and planting conditions are things you’ll want to consider when it comes to naturalizing your pond with plants.
1. Create Interest with Variety. Random placement of plants with varying textures and colors will create more interest than using plants that have all the same growth habit or leaf shape.
2. Play with Colors. Choose colors you like best and consider the type of lighting your pond receives. Yellow, orange, and white help brighten shady areas, while cool blue and violet tone down the intensity of the sun’s rays.
3. Go Green. A soft, calming space is created by using different textures and shades of green foliage. The combination is effective on its own, but also looks great when accented only by white flowers. You can also play with color based on leaf selection alone, since you’ll find aquatic foliage in a range of colors such as red, purple, yellow, and several variegated combinations.
5. Short in Front, Tall in Back. This might seem like a no-brainer, but always put shorter plants in front of taller ones. Most likely, you’ll spend most of your time viewing your water garden from a deck or patio, so keep that sight line in mind when planting your pond.
7. Consider Each Plant’s Needs. Be mindful of how much sun your aquatic plants require, along with their planting depth. If a plant requires full sun, that’s a minimum of 6 hours of unobstructed (ie not dappled shade) sun per day. If you’re not sure what your plant needs, search online for information.
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
SOME HELPFUL POND INFO LINKS:
How To Attract Birds, Dragonflies & Butterflies To Your Pond In Rochester NY
Add Water To Your Yard
Not all birds may be interested in the foods you offer, but many more species will take advantage of water.
Opt for native plants whenever possible. Both birds and butterflies will be more familiar with native varieties, and native plants will thrive better on less care.
Eliminate insecticide use. Not only will insecticides kill butterflies, but they also kill other insects that birds will eat. Instead, attract birds to the garden and rely on them for natural pest control.
Dragonflies attack and eat insects. These beneficial creatures can be an asset to the garden, keeping menacing insects such as mosquitoes to a minimum.
Have A Backyard Water Feature Project In Mind? We’re Ready When You Are. Contact Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Today. (585) 442-6373
Other Links That May Be Useful:
Spring Pond Maintenance|Tips For A Clear Pond|Rochester|New York|NY
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.
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
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
Bacteria contains bacteria and enzymes that are specifically blended to be effective at reducing sludge, uneaten fish food, fish waste, dead and decaying plant material, and excess nutrients that cause poor water quality and clarity. Blended and tested to produce maximum results in ornamental ponds. |
Automatic Dosing System
The more surface area available for bacteria to grow, the more efficient your biological filter. Providing crystal clear water quality creates less problems, thereby lessening maintenance, which leaves more time to enjoy the pond and less time spent maintaining it. |
3) The Fish
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.....
We Recommend Fully Draining & Cleaning Your Koi Fish Pond At Least Once Every Year Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls Can Help You, Call Us 585-442-6373
Other 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) 585-442-6373
Some Helpful Pond Links:
Author
Landscape Designer / Pond Contractor, Tom Warmerdam has been designing, installing & maintaining koi ponds, water features, patios, landscape lighting & creating outdoor living area paradises all around Rochester, New York (NY) for over 30 years. His company Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls was awarded by Aquascape Inc. as one of the top 100 in North America in 2014. He has been attending conferences at Aquascape headquarters every year since 2004 in Chicago, Ill to maintain his Certification(Certified Aquascape Contractor) status.
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