Spring Pond Changes: 4 Steps To Enjoy A Crystal Clear Pond In Rochester (NY)

4/16/2017

Spring Pond Maintenance|Tips For A Clear Pond|Rochester|New York|NY

Now 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.

How much maintenance does my fish pond need this spring in Rochester NY or near me?

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

How many Aquatic Pond Plants should I put in my pond in Rochester NY or near me?

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

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.

What Kind Of Fish Pond Water Treatments Are Best In Rochester NY or near me?

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.

Koi Pond Water Treatments Rochester (NY)

Automatic Dosing System

3) The Fish

When Can I Start Feeding My Pond Fish This Spring In Rochester NY or near me?

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.