Pond Artpublished by Artistic Landscaping Inc. Spring 2019

published by Artistic Landscaping Inc. Spring 2019

SPRING CAREEstablishing a natural balance is the goal of a healthy pond. Once this is achieved your pond will provide maximum beauty with minimal effort. However, there are some basic tips that will make pond care easier. Generally, pond life should be disrupted as little as possible. Large changes in water and pond environment can have adverse effects on aquatic life and the pond’s entire ecosystem .

General Care: In Spring, drain your water down about 4 - 6” and check your pond. Remove all dead plant parts. Invasive or overgrown plants should be divided and replanted, or removed. If the water is sludgy, clean the entire pond. If you add fresh water, apply a startup chemical like Pond Prep or Heavy Metal Deneutralizer to remove chlorine. Also add a biological enzyme like MicroBe Lift to assit in the balancing of the pond’s ecosystem. Allow for additional daily aeration during the first 2-3 weeks after start-up. Spring’s large temperature fluctuations adversely affect the pond, and proper balance is maintained by adding oxygen to the water. Organic treatments promote healthy biological growth. Maintain additional aeration until you place your plants, and they establish themselves.

Fish: Start feeding fish, once per week then twice per week waiting for warmer afternoon temperatures. Check your fish for sluggish or unusual behaviour. This usually indicates disease or sickness. Lots of movement and healthy appetites usually signifies healthy fish. DO NOT OVER FEED as their metabolisms must be reset after winter hibernation.

Equipment: Clean and reinstall pumps and any filters taken off line over the winter. Inspect electrical components and replace any damaged equipment. Check GFI (Ground Fault Interupt receptical) for proper operation.

Water lilies: Divide tuberous lilies in the spring before fully formed leaves appear

Other Plants: Plantings should be introduced in mid May, once the danger of frost has passed.Delicate annuals like water hyacinths or any tropical plantings must be protected in the pond if introduced earlier.

published by Artistic Landscaping Inc. Spring 2019

TUB GARDENSIf you would enjoy a water feature, but are not quite ready

for the larger commitment of a full-scale pond, a tub garden is a great way to break into the pleasures of water gardening. With a few considerations you have all the

elements of a larger water garden in a convenient small size.

The Container: Searching for the right container is half the fun. Almost anything capable of holding water can become an attractive garden accent pond. Consider a claw-footed bathtub, a cast-iron kettle, wooden half barrel,

terracotta planter, old wooden trough, etc. A watertight liner is required for the containers that have drainage holes. Also consider a container deep enough for water lilies and with enough water to create a reasonable coolness and minimal maintenance.

The Site: Because a water filled 25-gallon container weighs over 200 lbs, it makes good sense to set up your tub garden in its permanent location. If you’re going to use a corner of your deck, make sure the structure can

support the weight of this addition. You need a fairly sunny spot (most aquatic plants require 4-6 hours of full sun daily). Make sure you put the tub garden where you can enjoy it to its fullest!

The Plants: Remember to think small. One mini water lily per square yard of surface area is plenty, along with a few bunches of oxygenating plants or water grasses. A tub garden might be a perfect location for an

exotic tropical lily because, even though it costs more, you only need one. You would plant these water plants in water containers and then place

them in your tub. Use rocks or flagstones as risers for correct depth.

The Fountain: A tiny fountain jet, driven by a small capacity submersible pump provides visual interest and necessary oxygen. You may also consider a UV filter to assist in purifying the water. Of course, you need electricity for a pump or fountain.

The Accessories: Add a couple of pots of marginal plants, ornamental grasses, or brilliant annuals, a spot for a

comfortable lounge chair, and you will enjoy many moments with your mini water garden.

published by Artistic Landscaping Inc. Spring 2019

POND MECHANICS 101

Products Mentioned in this Volume:* Microbe Lift* Containers

* Water-Tight Liners* Exotic Tropical Lilies

* Fountains* Marginal Plants

* Filters* Lighting Systems

* Submersible Pumps* Ideas for Lights, De-

signs, Ornaments* Reference Books

Submersible pumps are advantageous for several reasons. They disappear to the bottom of the pond, operate silently, require little maintenance and do not require priming. They are suitable for running small fountains and waterfalls, or simpy for recirculating water.

Location of pump: It is usually best to install the pump as close to where it has to move the water as possible. For example, a waterfall pump is best at the base of the falls. Your pump should be sitting on a riser on the pond bottom to keep it free from silt and other debris. A strainer in front of the pump filters dirt and leaves, as well. Consider your electrical source when planning the pump’s

location, since most cords are 6-10’ in length. You can specially order lengths of 15-20’.

Cleaning of Pump: Check the strainer and intake pipe, which is typically removed with a twist. Flush out the intake pipe and the impeller with a strong jet of

water, then reassemble with filter in place to ensure that it functions normally.

Filters: Although not required, they assist in developing a balanced pond. A pool properly stocked with plant and

animal life will become balanced after a period of time. Overfeeding fish, excessive light, soil, and other debris can make additional

filtration necessary. There are three types of filters commonly used: biological, mechanical, and UV. The mechanical filters are large strainers, catching debris in their grids. Biological filters use healthy bacterial to purify the water by choking out algae and other negative bacteria. UV filters use ultraviolet light rays to kill algae, but they do not remove the dead algae or other suspended particles. They are useful for increasing the clarity of the water.

Electricity is required for powering your pump, accenting plants and fish with light, or illuminating patios and walkways. You can extend your home’s 120-volt system into the garden, use solar powered lighting options, or 12-volt systems. A GFI is strongly recommended. Have an electrician do the work if you’re unsure of your own abilities. Only use components designed for use in or near water. To protect against weather and accidental damage, run underground, CSA-approved cables through conduit.

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