Ponds in Spring: Change for Koi & Pondkeeper
More Top Pond Keeping Tips: Click image right for UK pond products. If you are installing a new pond and arranging for a supply of electricity to it then do add any extra power point for possible future use. It's very important to use a pump with at least 10 metres of cable attached. In South Africa it is illegal to use a pump in a pond with less than 10 metres of 3 core cable. It is possible to joint approved outdoor cable using specially designed waterproof (resin) connectors. Such connections can be safely immersed in water. All power equipment should be connected to an earth leakage system.
Ponds in Spring?
Spring is a time of change and new growth, and you will certainly observe a period of transformation as your pond, goldfish and koi transition from the lull of the cold winter months to a warmer period of growth and activity.
As exciting as it may be to see your koi or gold fish rejuvenated by the warmer weather, it is also important to remember that spring is a risky time for koi and other pond fish, a neither here nor there period during which they require lots of support. In fact, spring offers an opportune moment to inspect the environment of your fishpond and gauge what fish pond maintenance needs to be done.
Pond in Spring: Changes.
The sooner you examine and assess your pond in spring the better, as this will help you to ascertain how your koi faired during the winter months.
Take advantage of the period during which your koi are not yet actively feeding to test the pond water. The pH and nitrate levels are the primary factors that should be assessed. It will take some time for the biofilter to really "kick in" so as water warms resist the temptation to overfeed the koi or goldfish in the pond. Consider the following:
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- pH – rain and snow during the winter months has a diluting effect which can cause the pH to go down to around 7. To return your pond to the preferred pH of approximately 8, simply top up with some treated tap water or throw in a source of calcium carbonate.
- Nitrate – due to the disintegration of organic matter and the slow production of fish metabolism during winter, it is to be expected that the nitrate levels will have risen slightly. It is only necessary to carry out a water change if the nitrate level has exceeded 50ppm.
How do I Keep my Pond Clear and Sparkling in Spring?
Springtime’s longer days and warmer weather have their benefits, but they also present a unique set of challenges. After enjoying months of beautiful water clarity thanks to cold temperatures and reduced flow rate, you might now find yourself with an algae-laden fishpond in only a few short weeks.
It is vitally important that you act swiftly to counteract the effects of nutrient build up and intensive sunlight combined with the churning action of increased koi activity. The most advantageous time to take preventative measures is when the water temperature is still below 10 degrees Celsius and the fish are not yet active – this will allow a clear view of the pond’s bottom.
It is highly recommended that you make use of a pond-vac, which can be purchased or hired from an aquatic store. Using a pond-vac, you should make a thorough effort to get rid of the silt that has settled on the bottom of the fishpond. Any silt that is left will provide a source of nutrients for algae to flourish, so a scrupulous clean up will certainly be rewarding in the long-run.
The temperature of your pond in spring will continue to rise steadily above 10 degrees Celsius, and this is when the changes in your koi and their environment will become more evident. The sub-10 degrees Celsius temperature, however, should be regarded as a window of opportunity to perform aesthetic and biological maintenance in preparation for the summer months.
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