Pond Issues and Maintenance
Ponds make a beautiful addition to any outdoor area. However, they can be difficult to preserve and maintain. Common problems that can occur with your pond are water loss, maintaining the water quality and plant and pest control care. It is important that your plants are maintained in your pond, otherwise overgrowing can occur. It is important that plants in your pond are divided from neighbouring or overcrowded plants, which can be done by using a knife or a spade.
Pest Control
Pest control can also be a common issue when looking after your pond. Aphids are a common pest that can attack items in your pond, such as water lilies or other aquatic plants. It is important that these aphids are kept under control; this can be done using a simple hosepipe which washes away the aphids. Your pond can also be at threat from other pests such as cats, herons or even falling debris. A useful solution to protect your pond from these pests is pond netting. All you have to do is drape the correct size netting across your pond and it will be protected. Gardening Naturally’s pond netting has a mesh size of 5mm x 7mm, meaning it will protect your plants from plenty of pests, while allowing the light to reach your pond.
Water Loss
Water Loss can occur for many different reasons within a pond. Firstly, the pond’s edges may not be level, meaning that water will overflow at the lowest point. It is important that if your pond is leaking, it gets fully inspected. This is done by removing all water from the pond using an electric pump. These kits come with a 50ml tube of adhesive, a spatula and 12.5cm x 25cm PVC liner. The kit is ideal for smaller pond repairs. A common reason why leaking can occur is due to frost damage. The cracks can be very fine, however it is still important to check damage, as well as prevent damage that may occur in the future.
Winter Pond Care
If the temperature is sub-zero, it is possible that your pond may freeze over. If you have fish in your pond, it is important to melt the ice on the top of your pond. This can be done by placing a hot pan on the surface. A useful tip to protect your fish is to never smash the ice, this will cause shock waves which can harm the fish. You can also place a floating ball in the water which can prevent freezing of your pond. It is also vital to ensure that your plants are still getting the correct amount of light, as this allows them to photosynthesize and improve the oxygen levels of the water in your pond.
Summer Pond Care
Your water levels can lower in the summer due to hot temperatures and evaporation. To improve the oxygen levels for the fish, it is important that you top up the water level regularly over the summer. Try and make sure that the water temperature is warm enough for the fish so it does not cause them a shock. For example, if you are replenishing the pond water using tap water, do this in gradual amounts. Clearing floating weeds on top of your pond is also important to maintain the light and oxygen levels within your pond.
Pond Accessories
Algae control balls are a natural and effective way to help clear and maintain your pond. The balls will remove algae and will not harm pondlife, wildlife or other pets. The pond oxygenator is an air pump that will oxygenate the water when the oxygen levels are low. It is solar powered, so there is no running cost or mains wiring, making it an eco-friendly way to maintain your pump. This is similar with the sunjet water pump. As well as providing a stunning water feature, it will improve the oxygen and circulation levels in your pond which will benefit all your pond life.
Pond Protection from Herons and Leaves
Our flat pond frame covers offer the perfect solution for protecting your pond life from any predators. Made from our 19mm aluminium tubing and joiners. Simple to construct and full instructions provided.Mesh size is 5mm x 7mm which will also help keep out any debris.
The frame will need weighing down to ensure it doesn't blow away which can be done with bricks, pegs or some guide ropes (none of these are supplied).