Koi pond care
by
Skatter
+9
I've "inherited" a koi pond. I don't think it's had much care in the past. It has a pump & filter, but it has not been plugged in. What is the most simple way to care for it?
12 answers
-
Here are some pointers for starters: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=353 Hometalk member @Sherrie S has a koi pond. Perhaps she'll have something to add.
Douglas Hunt
on Jun 02, 2013
-
First , plug in that filter ! second, Koi ponds that have koi also require some sucker/cat fish to keep it clean.. get a couple.. always float your fish at least 20- 30 minutes before letting them loose in the water, and always add a little of the water at a time to the bag.. for the fish to get use to it.. don't just plunge them into the pond, it will shock them and possibly kill or in the least.. possible ick disease later. Go to your area pond dealer and ask advice or google a local fish club, ask questions there.. Fish clubs / Aquarium Society - many members give away.. free "things" to other members!
Karol Singleton
on Jun 02, 2013
-
Here are two of our koi ponds.. we have had koi ponds for about 30 yrs, we also have about 25 aquariums .. fresh water fish..and have show fish..
Karol Singleton
on Jun 02, 2013
-
We can sit on the ft porch,watch tv.. listen to the water falling into the Koi pond.. beautiful view.. now instead of just a street and cars passing by. Many neighbors stop / stand and admire the garden.. not realizing there are water features also. My own little paradise ..
Karol Singleton
on Jun 02, 2013
-
I agree with Karol....plug in that filter! And clean it weekly, but check it after two or three days when the weather starts getting warmer as it may need cleaning mid-week. Look up your filter manufacturer online to see if they have an owner's manual available or information on proper care and maintainance of it. Also, look up Drs. Foster and Smith online and request a copy of their pond catalog. They have everything you need to keep the chemical and bacteria balance of the water at optimum levels for the health of the fish, pond salt, colonize, etc., plus plenty of tips on pond care and maintainance. One of the best things my husband did for our pond was intalling a UV light in the water recirculation line.
Joanie1051
on Jun 02, 2013
-
The filter and pump are the most important things. The "sucker fish" a/k/a Pleco are really good but your temperature cannot go below 50 degrees or they will die. Koi have no problems with cold or heat. I've had my pond for over 9 years & the only chemical I use is Eco Labs lift PL bacteria. Sometimes I think people use too many chemicals. Nature is doing a fine job here.
Sherrie S
on Jun 02, 2013
-
I agree that Drs. Foster & Smith is your best source for supplies. Also, the need for a UV light. Don't skimp on light size. Looks like a pretty large pond. I think you will enjoy having a koi pond.
Ronnie Pennington
on Jun 02, 2013
-
Thanks everyone, I've read more now, ordered the catalog and will find a way to run electricity to the pump/filter. I'll let you know how it goes...
Skatter
on Jun 02, 2013
-
Wild Orchid Koi & Water Garden 313 Laurent StreetSanta Cruz, CA 95060-3543 talk to these people they know your area and your typical pond issues also it looks like your filter is in great need of cleaning always talk to a expert for your area befor buying anything then go get it at the least expensive place. I have had conversations with these people before as I am in the nursery trade and they are quite competent
April E
on Jun 02, 2013
-
Hometalk is a great forum that I whole heartedly support. For top notch koi pond keeping advice go to http://www.gardenpondforum.com/.
Lou
on Jun 03, 2013
-
I put a barley bale in my pond (buy at petshop) to help eliminate algae and clear the water. You also need plants like water hyacinth to add oxygen to the water. I have goldfish, not koi...they are really hardy, and do well all winter, too.
Gloria DiBenedetto
on Jun 05, 2013
-
I've had my koi pond for 8 yrs. It's ever evolving. Last year I put in a faux stone fall/fountain with about a 4 ft drop and a high volume pump that sounds fantastic from the porch. I've gone from comets to koi over the years so now have a good mix of both. 750 gallons surrounded by jasmine and wood ivy that have overgrown the tank edge. I haven't watered in 5+ yrs. It's completely self sustaining now. The fish keep the roots under control. All I do is feed. Spring algae bloom is a pain, but the pea soup eventually clears up. I occasionally throw some barley in to help it out, but I prefer to let nature do it's thing. It's a healthy ,thriving pond. My fish even breed,so I know they like their home!
Gonfshn77302
on Mar 11, 2015
Sign Up to Answer
