Spring is coming! Get your pond ready for the life that is about to emerge. Performing pond maintenance before the water temperature rises above 10 degrees Celsius will allow you to prepare the pond properly for wildlife and plants without disturbing the environment. The amount of time you will need to spend cleaning your pond depends on what kind of winter your area had. Your pond will look it's cleanest, but may not be.
Decaying matter such as leaves and other organic material cause nutrient levels in your pond to drop. This leads to algae concerns and health for any wildlife living in the pond could be in jeopardy. Oxygen is key for a healthy pond, so use a vacuum from your aquatic store to remove the debris that may have settled on the bottom over the fall and winter season.
Pond water should maintain a ph of 8. Test before full spring time and you will know what adjustments need to be made to get your pond in perfect working order. If you use a pump, check the operation and replace any bulbs which are burned out. Change any filters which may need changing. Take the time now to get your pond ready so you can enjoy it all summer.
If you have fish in your pond, they are well adept at surviving winter and most do not eat while the pond water temperature is cold. To help your fish come out of winter sleep, when the water temperature is between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius, begin feeding them small amounts. Only leave the food out for them to eat for around 5 minutes. Remove anything they do not eat after that time. This will ensure they become active gradually. Fish may also need some care in the form of bacteria control since they are more vulnerable after their winter sleep. Give them a little extra care and nutrition now will help them swim and be enjoyable the remainder of the season.
Summary:
Pond care is really not difficult, but a necessity for the life surrounding it. Take a little care and preparation now to reap the benefits of a great looking pond all through the summer.
