Greenhouse
Mays
Caring for Pond Fish
In new ponds it is best to let the water sit for 3-5 days and let the temperature stabilize. Tap water will require
the addition of a chlorine and chloramines remover before the addition of fish. Our tap water is a little hard and may require
a pH test. Older, established ponds typically have a balanced pH due to biological processes and should be fine. A 6.5-7.5
reading is ideal, although fewer diseases and clearer water occur in a lower pH.
When adding fish, introduce only a few at a time as not to disrupt the bio-load of the pond. In a pond with standard filtration, add 1” of goldfish or ½” of koi per square foot of water surface to avoid overstocking. Overstocking leads to decreased water clarity and quality. Keep in mind that fish grow and multiply readily. Float the bag with the fish in the pond for 15-20 minutes before releasing it into the pond, so the fish may slowly adjust to the temperature. It is best to keep the bag out of the sun to avoid overheating and undue stress.
Since fall is a natural stress period for fish, it is also the best time to clean out the pond. Leaving debris and sludge in the pond over winter can release toxic gases, which build up under ice and causes problems. Making sure that just a small hole is always open allows these gases to escape. A heater or a small pump placed below the freeze line aimed upward usually does the job. Properly stocked and clean ponds may not have a problem at all.
When adding fish, introduce only a few at a time as not to disrupt the bio-load of the pond. In a pond with standard filtration, add 1” of goldfish or ½” of koi per square foot of water surface to avoid overstocking. Overstocking leads to decreased water clarity and quality. Keep in mind that fish grow and multiply readily. Float the bag with the fish in the pond for 15-20 minutes before releasing it into the pond, so the fish may slowly adjust to the temperature. It is best to keep the bag out of the sun to avoid overheating and undue stress.
Since fall is a natural stress period for fish, it is also the best time to clean out the pond. Leaving debris and sludge in the pond over winter can release toxic gases, which build up under ice and causes problems. Making sure that just a small hole is always open allows these gases to escape. A heater or a small pump placed below the freeze line aimed upward usually does the job. Properly stocked and clean ponds may not have a problem at all.
(All items subject to availability.)
Mays Greenhouse ©2010
Preparing and Caring