Koi fish ponds need not only regular maintenance, but also cleaning if you want to have a healthy marine environment. The water should be clean, non-toxic, de-chlorinated and clear.
Maintenance prevents the accumulation of organic wastes in the pond. Prevent over-population since this will cause crowding, dirty the pond and cause ecological imbalance.
Fish feed only to the extent required should be dropped. Excess would settle at the bottom or float atop. Their decay and decomposition will make the water toxic.
Cleaning involves use of fine-meshed nets for lifting out floating wastes, excess food and debris. Filters at the bottom of the pond will drain insects, algae, and mud. Biological filters which use bacteria to convert toxic into harmless matter can also be installed. Water can be aerated by installing fountains or waterfalls using pumps with filtration plants.
Algae oxygenate the water. When the pH level of the water rises, they will grow rampantly. Adding pond salt with baking soda or adding barley straw extract will regulate their growth and maintain the desired pH levels.
Koi fish generate a lot of waste. It is mandatory to clean the pond annually every spring wherein the water will be drained out completely and refilled after all the mud and wastes are cleared.
Cleaning the pond involves:
• Shifting fishes to an aerated tank located in a cool and shady place.
• Removing the parts fitted in the pond and checking for any damage.
• Clearing the pond of mud, wastes and debris using pressure wash.
• De-chlorinating the tank and fitting all the parts back.
• Filling the pond and shifting the fishes.
About The Author
Pond Doctors LLC their services are cleaning ponds, pond maintenance, pond design, pond care and construction of ponds.
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Article Source:
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Monday, January 23, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Essential Koi Pond Supplies
As a new Koi pond owner, you may be overwhelmed with the quantity of supplies required to appropriately maintain your Koi pond. While the importance of the majority of these items cannot be denied, the sentiment of being overwhelmed by the amount required should be overlooked. Just knowing the function of each item can help you understand why they are needed.
There are certain items that you need to have on hand at all times. Because your pond is outside, emergency situations do occur. Nature is simply unpredictable at times, and you do not want to be caught in a condition where an item is required, but they is no way to obtain it.
Filters- Having a functioning filtration system is vital for removing unwanted contaminants, and maintaining proper water quality. If you do not have a proper filter, water quality issues can occur, which in turn will cause your fish to have health concerns.
Pump- A pump is essential to the health of your pond. If you water is not moving, there is no way the system can process the water. Moving water can also be from waterfalls, fountains, and other water features, but in no way should completely replace your pump.
Dechlorinator- Tap water contains chemicals that can potentially hurt your fish. When adding new water for any reason, you must add Dechlorinator to get rid of these chemicals.
Test Kits- You will need to have ammonia and nitrite test kits on hand at all times. You will need to complete weekly water tests on your water to ensure proper water quality. Emergency tests may also be needed in the event that you notice discrepancies in your Koi behavior or in the water.
Pond Salt and Baking Soda- Pond salt and baking soda are used to regulate kH and Nitrate levels in the event that you find a discrepancy. Pay close attention to the amounts you are suppose to add to your pond, which depends on size and the concerns you are currently having.
Bags- You must have the proper bags on hand to transport Koi. Do not attempt to transport your Koi in trash or regular plastic bags, as they are not intended for this, and may cause damage to your Koi. Unless you remembered to keep the bags you brought your koi home in originally, you will have to make a trip to your local pet store. Make sure to get bags substantial enough to hold your Koi.
Rubber Bands- You will need quite a few rubber bands for each bag you buy. Make sure that your rubber bands are excellent quality, as you do not want the pressure from the water to pop the rubber band in the middle of the transport.
Net- You will need to have a net sizeable enough to compete with your Koi. You will never need the net to pull the Koi out of the water with, but you will need it to lead and direct your Koi into the place you want them. Nets can potentially harm your Koi, particularly as the bigger they get.
Paint Bucket- A paint bucket is a better option for catching your Koi, as they cannot harm your Koi like a net can. Make sure that your bucket is sizable enough to hold your Koi.
Koi Staple Food- Like any other pet, Koi need to be fed daily. Talk with your local pet store or Koi vendor when picking foods for your Koi, as different seasons may dictate the kind of food you need to be feeding. Koi have even been known to eat out of their owner’s hand, so make sure to get food in which you are able to do this with.
Koi Treats and Snacks- Like other creatures, Koi delight in treats, and will respond in a playful manner to them. Specific Koi treats are available at your local pet store. If you do not mind feeding “human” food to your pets, you may even consider feeding your Koi veggies, fruit, and bread.
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There are certain items that you need to have on hand at all times. Because your pond is outside, emergency situations do occur. Nature is simply unpredictable at times, and you do not want to be caught in a condition where an item is required, but they is no way to obtain it.
Filters- Having a functioning filtration system is vital for removing unwanted contaminants, and maintaining proper water quality. If you do not have a proper filter, water quality issues can occur, which in turn will cause your fish to have health concerns.
Pump- A pump is essential to the health of your pond. If you water is not moving, there is no way the system can process the water. Moving water can also be from waterfalls, fountains, and other water features, but in no way should completely replace your pump.
Dechlorinator- Tap water contains chemicals that can potentially hurt your fish. When adding new water for any reason, you must add Dechlorinator to get rid of these chemicals.
Test Kits- You will need to have ammonia and nitrite test kits on hand at all times. You will need to complete weekly water tests on your water to ensure proper water quality. Emergency tests may also be needed in the event that you notice discrepancies in your Koi behavior or in the water.
Pond Salt and Baking Soda- Pond salt and baking soda are used to regulate kH and Nitrate levels in the event that you find a discrepancy. Pay close attention to the amounts you are suppose to add to your pond, which depends on size and the concerns you are currently having.
Bags- You must have the proper bags on hand to transport Koi. Do not attempt to transport your Koi in trash or regular plastic bags, as they are not intended for this, and may cause damage to your Koi. Unless you remembered to keep the bags you brought your koi home in originally, you will have to make a trip to your local pet store. Make sure to get bags substantial enough to hold your Koi.
Rubber Bands- You will need quite a few rubber bands for each bag you buy. Make sure that your rubber bands are excellent quality, as you do not want the pressure from the water to pop the rubber band in the middle of the transport.
Net- You will need to have a net sizeable enough to compete with your Koi. You will never need the net to pull the Koi out of the water with, but you will need it to lead and direct your Koi into the place you want them. Nets can potentially harm your Koi, particularly as the bigger they get.
Paint Bucket- A paint bucket is a better option for catching your Koi, as they cannot harm your Koi like a net can. Make sure that your bucket is sizable enough to hold your Koi.
Koi Staple Food- Like any other pet, Koi need to be fed daily. Talk with your local pet store or Koi vendor when picking foods for your Koi, as different seasons may dictate the kind of food you need to be feeding. Koi have even been known to eat out of their owner’s hand, so make sure to get food in which you are able to do this with.
Koi Treats and Snacks- Like other creatures, Koi delight in treats, and will respond in a playful manner to them. Specific Koi treats are available at your local pet store. If you do not mind feeding “human” food to your pets, you may even consider feeding your Koi veggies, fruit, and bread.
R36Z2F5TDBHT
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Selecting Plants For Your Koi Water Garden
So you finally finished your water garden structure. You have finally come to the fun part of building your water garden: picking the flowers and plants that will make your water garden a picturesque oasis.
Not only should you think about attractiveness when you are picking your plants, but you must also keep in mind that plants give another, more significant value to your garden, biological life. Biological life helps maintain your pool by doing what they would do in nature.
Be sure to pay attention to your climate and region. Some plants can simply not live in certain circumstances, so it is wise to do your research before hand. Talking with your local dealer will give you some idea of what plants you can and cannot have in your pond.
Lotus Plants
Undoubtedly, since your pond contains Koi, a tropical fish, you may want to stay with the theme and place Lotus plants in your pond. Pretty much everybody with a tropical water garden will want a Lotus plant because the elegance is simply unmatched by other flowers.
Lotus plants provide beautiful blooms, and a smell that is unmatched. However, unless you live in an area that sustains temps higher then 65 degree Fahrenheit, you will need to have to have a place to house your Lotus plants through the colder months. A greenhouse system specifically for water plants will work the best.
Lotus plants need soil, and a large amount of daylight. They should be planted in water about 2 to 3 feet deep during the warmer months, and inside during the colder months.
Water Hyacinths
If you just do not have the time to plant and sustain your water garden’s foliage, or you are somewhat lazy when it comes to gardening, you may want to consider adding Water Hyacinths. Water hyacinths have become very well-liked recently because of their simplicity. They do not require any kind of soil or planting, you must simply throw them into the water. Only minimal time is needed to secure them down so that they do not float all over the pond freely.
Water Hyacinths are not only attractive, but are also very useful as well. These plants aid in the fight against both algae and blanket weeds.
One downside when having Water Hyacinths is the reality that they will take over your pond and yard if you allow them. Water hyacinths are very persistent, and will spread if allowed. In extreme cases, it may even jump the fence and take over the neighbors backyard as well. Once they have caused this kind of infestation, it is notoriously arduous to get rid of them.
Hidden But Functional Plants
Alternatively, you may want to consider investing in plants that are not inevitably seen. These plants live below the water line, and provide many required services to your pond. Some help you battle algae, put oxygen back into the water, or feed your fish for you.
You can find these plants in bundles at your local pet store or Koi dealer. The majority of underwater plants will not need additional support during the winter, so once you place them in the water, you may not think twice about them again. However, the benefits that you get from having these types of plants make up for the fact that you are not able to actually see them.
Not only should you think about attractiveness when you are picking your plants, but you must also keep in mind that plants give another, more significant value to your garden, biological life. Biological life helps maintain your pool by doing what they would do in nature.
Be sure to pay attention to your climate and region. Some plants can simply not live in certain circumstances, so it is wise to do your research before hand. Talking with your local dealer will give you some idea of what plants you can and cannot have in your pond.
Lotus Plants
Undoubtedly, since your pond contains Koi, a tropical fish, you may want to stay with the theme and place Lotus plants in your pond. Pretty much everybody with a tropical water garden will want a Lotus plant because the elegance is simply unmatched by other flowers.
Lotus plants provide beautiful blooms, and a smell that is unmatched. However, unless you live in an area that sustains temps higher then 65 degree Fahrenheit, you will need to have to have a place to house your Lotus plants through the colder months. A greenhouse system specifically for water plants will work the best.
Lotus plants need soil, and a large amount of daylight. They should be planted in water about 2 to 3 feet deep during the warmer months, and inside during the colder months.
Water Hyacinths
If you just do not have the time to plant and sustain your water garden’s foliage, or you are somewhat lazy when it comes to gardening, you may want to consider adding Water Hyacinths. Water hyacinths have become very well-liked recently because of their simplicity. They do not require any kind of soil or planting, you must simply throw them into the water. Only minimal time is needed to secure them down so that they do not float all over the pond freely.
Water Hyacinths are not only attractive, but are also very useful as well. These plants aid in the fight against both algae and blanket weeds.
One downside when having Water Hyacinths is the reality that they will take over your pond and yard if you allow them. Water hyacinths are very persistent, and will spread if allowed. In extreme cases, it may even jump the fence and take over the neighbors backyard as well. Once they have caused this kind of infestation, it is notoriously arduous to get rid of them.
Hidden But Functional Plants
Alternatively, you may want to consider investing in plants that are not inevitably seen. These plants live below the water line, and provide many required services to your pond. Some help you battle algae, put oxygen back into the water, or feed your fish for you.
You can find these plants in bundles at your local pet store or Koi dealer. The majority of underwater plants will not need additional support during the winter, so once you place them in the water, you may not think twice about them again. However, the benefits that you get from having these types of plants make up for the fact that you are not able to actually see them.
Monday, January 16, 2012
5 Steps To a Perfect Koi Pond
Step 1- Setting Up The Perfect Environment
You perfect Koi pond starts with the actual pond itself. You have to create a pond that will not only be pleasing to the eye, but will also adequately sustain Koi. Proper placement, size, and pond type is essential when building your pond.
When it comes to pond size, the bigger is always better. Koi have a habit of growing rather fast, so you have to consider pond size at the same time you are considering how many Koi you are going to put it in.
Unless you have a large amount of knowledge in outdoor landscaping, fish keeping, and construction, it may be a good idea to leave the pond building to a professional. While some people think that building the pond yourself with save you money, this could not be further from the case. If your pond is not build properly the first time, you will end up spending a large amount of money on fixing the problems that come up. Not only that, if your pond is not properly setup, you may not even be able to keep fish alive.
Remember when you hire a professional, it is their job to give you what you want. They can give their knowledge when it comes to decision making, but ultimately, they will do whatever you want them too. Because of this, you cannot blame them if your pond fails do to location, size, or other factors. However, beware of extremely cheap quotes as they may cut corners that could potentially cause you problems later. While quotes will come in different, there should not be a very dramatic difference between them.
Step 2- Learning about Koi Keeping
Knowledge is power when it comes to Koi keeping. It is important to learn as much as you possibly can about the hobby before jumping in with both feet.
It is important to learn the information yourself rather then relying on other sources. People such as your product dealer and pond builder will have limited knowledge, but should not be trusted for a reliable source, as they are selling products and may be bias. Plus, once you are at home with your Koi, your product dealer or pond builder may not be available to help you in the event of a problem.
Step 3- Picking Out Koi
Once you have created the perfect environment, you will need to start looking into buying your fish. It is important to remember never to purchase to many Koi because they will grow rather large, and they breed almost yearly. Overpopulating your Koi pond will cause serious problems in the future.
Step 4- Preventing Common Koi Pond Problems
You can prevent certain types of Koi pond problems by following simple prevention steps.
Always quarantine new fish before introducing them to your current Koi population. Koi can have certain illnesses and viruses, such as KHV or Koi Herpes Virus, with little or no showing symptoms. By quarantining, you will greatly reduce the risk of exposing your population to potentially deadly situations.
Do water tests at least on a weekly basis. This will allow you to notice discrepancies in the test results long before your pond starts showing symptoms of stress. This iwill potentially save not only your pond, but your fish as well.
Step 5- Feeding You Koi
Finally, feeding you Koi can be one of the most pleasing parts of having a perfect Koi pond.
You should check with your local pet store or Koi dealer when it comes to the amount and types of food that you should be feeding your fish. Feeding patterns change with season and temperature.
Koi can be fed treats such as fruit, veggies, bread, and store bought treats.
Koi can literally be trained to eat directly from your hand. This takes time and patience, but will ultimately provide entertainment to you and your visitors.
You perfect Koi pond starts with the actual pond itself. You have to create a pond that will not only be pleasing to the eye, but will also adequately sustain Koi. Proper placement, size, and pond type is essential when building your pond.
When it comes to pond size, the bigger is always better. Koi have a habit of growing rather fast, so you have to consider pond size at the same time you are considering how many Koi you are going to put it in.
Unless you have a large amount of knowledge in outdoor landscaping, fish keeping, and construction, it may be a good idea to leave the pond building to a professional. While some people think that building the pond yourself with save you money, this could not be further from the case. If your pond is not build properly the first time, you will end up spending a large amount of money on fixing the problems that come up. Not only that, if your pond is not properly setup, you may not even be able to keep fish alive.
Remember when you hire a professional, it is their job to give you what you want. They can give their knowledge when it comes to decision making, but ultimately, they will do whatever you want them too. Because of this, you cannot blame them if your pond fails do to location, size, or other factors. However, beware of extremely cheap quotes as they may cut corners that could potentially cause you problems later. While quotes will come in different, there should not be a very dramatic difference between them.
Step 2- Learning about Koi Keeping
Knowledge is power when it comes to Koi keeping. It is important to learn as much as you possibly can about the hobby before jumping in with both feet.
It is important to learn the information yourself rather then relying on other sources. People such as your product dealer and pond builder will have limited knowledge, but should not be trusted for a reliable source, as they are selling products and may be bias. Plus, once you are at home with your Koi, your product dealer or pond builder may not be available to help you in the event of a problem.
Step 3- Picking Out Koi
Once you have created the perfect environment, you will need to start looking into buying your fish. It is important to remember never to purchase to many Koi because they will grow rather large, and they breed almost yearly. Overpopulating your Koi pond will cause serious problems in the future.
Step 4- Preventing Common Koi Pond Problems
You can prevent certain types of Koi pond problems by following simple prevention steps.
Always quarantine new fish before introducing them to your current Koi population. Koi can have certain illnesses and viruses, such as KHV or Koi Herpes Virus, with little or no showing symptoms. By quarantining, you will greatly reduce the risk of exposing your population to potentially deadly situations.
Do water tests at least on a weekly basis. This will allow you to notice discrepancies in the test results long before your pond starts showing symptoms of stress. This iwill potentially save not only your pond, but your fish as well.
Step 5- Feeding You Koi
Finally, feeding you Koi can be one of the most pleasing parts of having a perfect Koi pond.
You should check with your local pet store or Koi dealer when it comes to the amount and types of food that you should be feeding your fish. Feeding patterns change with season and temperature.
Koi can be fed treats such as fruit, veggies, bread, and store bought treats.
Koi can literally be trained to eat directly from your hand. This takes time and patience, but will ultimately provide entertainment to you and your visitors.
The Basics of Keeping Koi
Koi pond’s popularity are on the rise, and the reasons are obvious. Who would not want living creatures as a part of their garden? However, Koi keeping should not be taken lightly. Koi, like any other animal, require time and money to maintain. The majority of first time Koi owners fail because they get the idea that keeping Koi is easy in some way. Do not let this discourage you though, as educating yourself will greatly improve your chances of succeeding.
It is important for you to learn all you can BEFORE you begin obtaining the things you need for Koi keeping. This way, you will not slip up and have to replace anything that you have already done or bought. Planning ahead will not only save your money, but it will potentially save your sanity as well.
It is important to learn the information for yourself rather then relying on other sources. People such as your product dealer and pond builder will have limited knowledge, but should not be trusted for a reliable source, as they are selling products, and may be bias. Plus, once you are at home with your Koi, your product dealer or pond builder may not be available to help you in the event of a problem.
Your Pond
Before ever buying Koi, you must create a proper habitat for them. This is where information from your pond builder and supplier will come in handy. However, you should not rely on the opinions of just one person. It may be a god idea to do research on your own, before you go to purchase the materials needed for you pond. Because of it’s popularity, an unlimited supply of resources can be found on the topic of Koi keeping. Visit your local library, fishery center, or research online. There are quite a few things needed to sustain a habitable pond.
When it comes to pond size, the bigger is always better. Koi have a habit of growing rather fast, so you have to consider pond size at the same time you are considering how many Koi you are going to put it in.
You filtration system is extremely important. There are 2 types of filtration, mechanical and biological. mechanical filtration relives the pond of solids such as dead algae, insects, and Koi wastes. It is important to have enough filtration to sustain the size of the pond, and the amount and size of your Koi. Biological filtration causes a nitrogen cycle, which is what removes dissolved wastes from your pond. Without biological filtration, built up waste will turn into ammonia and kill your Koi within just a few days.
Another consideration is the water quality. It is sometimes said that having Koi is literally just a side effect of having the proper water quality. To keep your Koi alive, you must have the proper knowledge on how to maintain your water quality.
Buying Koi
There are potentially thousands of different types of Koi, with about 20 different popular versions. Koi are popular because of their beautiful colors and patterns.
Your pond should be complete before you even look into buying your Koi. The size and amount of Koi you buy should be highly based on your pond. Be careful, overstocking will cause problems right away with you pond, potentially killing many of the Koi you purchase, causing you to loose time and money.
Most fish owners understand that most fish will only grow to the size of their enclosure. Koi, unlike other fish, will grow until they are the size of their specific type. You must be able to accommodate the amount of fish you purchase in the future.
It is important for you to learn all you can BEFORE you begin obtaining the things you need for Koi keeping. This way, you will not slip up and have to replace anything that you have already done or bought. Planning ahead will not only save your money, but it will potentially save your sanity as well.
It is important to learn the information for yourself rather then relying on other sources. People such as your product dealer and pond builder will have limited knowledge, but should not be trusted for a reliable source, as they are selling products, and may be bias. Plus, once you are at home with your Koi, your product dealer or pond builder may not be available to help you in the event of a problem.
Your Pond
Before ever buying Koi, you must create a proper habitat for them. This is where information from your pond builder and supplier will come in handy. However, you should not rely on the opinions of just one person. It may be a god idea to do research on your own, before you go to purchase the materials needed for you pond. Because of it’s popularity, an unlimited supply of resources can be found on the topic of Koi keeping. Visit your local library, fishery center, or research online. There are quite a few things needed to sustain a habitable pond.
When it comes to pond size, the bigger is always better. Koi have a habit of growing rather fast, so you have to consider pond size at the same time you are considering how many Koi you are going to put it in.
You filtration system is extremely important. There are 2 types of filtration, mechanical and biological. mechanical filtration relives the pond of solids such as dead algae, insects, and Koi wastes. It is important to have enough filtration to sustain the size of the pond, and the amount and size of your Koi. Biological filtration causes a nitrogen cycle, which is what removes dissolved wastes from your pond. Without biological filtration, built up waste will turn into ammonia and kill your Koi within just a few days.
Another consideration is the water quality. It is sometimes said that having Koi is literally just a side effect of having the proper water quality. To keep your Koi alive, you must have the proper knowledge on how to maintain your water quality.
Buying Koi
There are potentially thousands of different types of Koi, with about 20 different popular versions. Koi are popular because of their beautiful colors and patterns.
Your pond should be complete before you even look into buying your Koi. The size and amount of Koi you buy should be highly based on your pond. Be careful, overstocking will cause problems right away with you pond, potentially killing many of the Koi you purchase, causing you to loose time and money.
Most fish owners understand that most fish will only grow to the size of their enclosure. Koi, unlike other fish, will grow until they are the size of their specific type. You must be able to accommodate the amount of fish you purchase in the future.
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