How to keep a pond clean and clear
by
Debbie Kozak
+8
How can I keep my my pond clean and clear? I've heard to use hydrogen peroxide but does that kill my fish?
8 answers
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There are tablets available for ponds,however you did not state where you are located.
Janet Pizaro
on Mar 09, 2016
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gold fish are natural scavengers, helping to keep your pond clean. They can also go into suspended animation in the cold winter, then literally come back to life as it gets warmer. The pond needs to develop it's own ecol system, which is why the plants are so important. Look up the details of ph levels, etc. on youtube, and there will probably be lots of information. I would NOT use peroxide.
Linda Vellucci
on Mar 09, 2016
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BARLEY STRAW As the straw decomposes in the water, byproducts are released creating a unique environment. The temperature of the water is an important factor. If the water temp is 40 degrees it may take up to 2 weeks for the straw to become active. When the water temperature is above 40 degrees the straw becomes active faster. In about a week the straw should begin to release it's chemical, given sufficient sunlight and oxygen. Well oxygenated conditions are essential to ensure the straw will decompose and produce it's chemical. If the straw is in a compacted state with restricted water movement through the straw, the effectiveness is extremely reduced. Barley straw does not harm fish or plant life. Actually in most cases it increases the invertebrate population providing a food source for fish. In fish farms and hatcheries where straw has been used, there are reports of improved gill function and better overall fish health. In garden ponds, the straw should be wrapped loosely in some type of netting that will allow water to flow through. To be most effective, place the bundle of straw in or near a waterfall or stream. As the straw decomposes it will sink. Some sort of float (cork or plastic bottle) should be attached to keep it partially out of the water. The straw needs a continuous exposure to both water and oxygen. Keeping the straw oxygenated will help the barley decompose thus releasing the byproducts. Barley straw should be added very early in the spring. It is best to apply when the water temp is low. Time should be given (about 30 days) for the straw to become active. Once activated, the straw will create the unique environment for up to 6 months. A replacement bundle should be added before the first bundle is completely decomposed. Two applications should be enough for one year. Ponds that have a high content of suspended mud it may be necessary to add more straw than in clear waters as the byproducts can be slowly inactivated by the mud. Volume of water does not have as much importance as surface area does. An average home garden pond of 800 - 1200 gallons of water should only need an 8 ounce bundle of straw in the spring and then again around the beginning of summer. Avoid adding excessive amounts of straw especially in extremely hot conditions. Be sure to remove the straw if you're in a climate where the water will freeze. For ponds under 800 gallons, 4 ounces of barley straw should be used.
Marija
on Mar 09, 2016
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The easiest way to keep your pond water clear and looking good is by adding natural beneficial bacteria. You can add it manually or have it done automatically with one of these: http://www.acornponds.com/aquascape-automatic-dosing-system.html. We have had great success keeping pond water crystal clear with these in Rochester NY!
Acorn Ponds & Waterfalls
on Mar 10, 2016
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Barley straw - purchase at most nurseries. Tiny bale (smaller than a brick) will do the job. Fish as well - feed on mosquito larvae and feed FLAKE not glandular food.
Shawn Brockhoff Maxwell
on Mar 10, 2016
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also there's a product called Green Clean, which kind of does look like hydrogen peroxide after you sprinkle it on the algae, but I don't think that's what it is. It's not very expensive and works well
Sandy Burrell
on Mar 10, 2016
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I'm not sure exactly what problems you are having but we use Algae Fix. Because our pond gets direct sunlight all day, it has been the only thing to help keep the pond clear. As far as keeping the pond clean, that's a whole nightmare in and of itself. Bottom feeders and/or a good vacuum system are the best idea for that.
RichandTammy Whiteside
on Mar 10, 2016
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I've had ponds for over 15 years and after the first couple years I had no algae problems. When I doubled the size of the pond I found it was impossible to stop the algae no matter what chemical I purchased for several reasons: Full sun, not enough plants and the good bacteria had not started to work. My pond is only 3 ft deep and many Koi are 18" but I couldn't see any fish. I finally purchased ultraviolet lights and in a few days the pond was clearing. After a few months I turned off the lights and the pond stayed clear. I do plan to turn them on before the algae gets out of control this year. The only chemical I now use is a beneficial bacteria that I add twice a month.
Sherrie S
on Mar 10, 2016
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