Spring Pond Cleaning

     The ice has finally melted and our fish are finally making their way back to the surface begging for food. ( Please remember, don't feed your fish until your water is consistently 50 degrees or above.) Time to get out there and clean your pond!

 

    

     Start with pumping existing pond water into a holding tank for your fish. The holding tank should be in the shade have an aerator and covered to keep your fish from jumping out. Start removing your fish once your water level is at a level fish can easily be removed. This is an easy time to check your fish for any signs of illness.

 

 

     Take your plants out of the pond and remove any dead leaves from last season and repot any overgrown plants. Cover water lilies with wet newspaper to keep them from drying out. With a garden hose, clean out any dirt and debris from behind rocks and any low areas where dirt can hide. Wash all your dirt to the bottom of the pond where it can easily be pumped out.

 

    

     Before adding any water back into your pond check your waterfall and skimmer filter fittings to make sure none came loose over the winter freeze and thaw. Check any lights, spitter pumps, ultra violet lights and service appropriately.

     

     Place your plants back into your pond and start refilling your pond. Please remember to use dechlorinator if using city water. Check with your local water authority it see if they use chloramines or not and use the appropriate dechlorinator. Check the pH of your new and existing water and make any necessary adjustments.

 

 

     Add Barley to your pond, please remember if you are using barley straw, place your bale or mat in running water for best results.

 

 

     Add your fish back in the pond along with a beneficial bacteria and enjoy all your hard work.