Some string algae is beneficial to the pond’s health. The algae that sticks on the pool liner, as long as its growth is under control, protects fish and combats green water caused by other algae. Try to control the algae using natural maintenance methods such as by adding plants, aerating the water, and removing waste yearly. [2] X Research source
Results will vary between ponds, but you can increase the amount of hydrogen peroxide as needed. Be careful though, because it can harm fish and plants. Chemicals such as String Algae Control are less harmful but more expensive options for existing algae problems.
You introduce plants by planting them at appropriate layers. For example, submerged plants such as anacharis rests fully below the surface with its roots in a basket. Marginal plants, including cattails, and lilies are rooted in water with aquatic potting soil. Floating plants such as water hyacinths rest on the water’s surface.
Install small pumps by attaching the water recirculating hose and placing the pump in the water away from dirt, such as on a block or rocks. Hide the open end of the hose away from the pump near some rocks. Plug the pump’s power cord into an outlet, making sure it is away from water. You may wish to bury the cord underground in PVC pipe. [7] X Research source
Feed fish high-protein fish food, such as Pond Care Summer Staple, two to four times a day when the water is warm. Feed them once every day or two days with a low protein food when the water goes below 60 degrees F (15. 5 degrees C).
Beneficial bacteria breaks down chemicals harmful to fish, such as ammonia, and food and waste nutritious to algae. It will also help balance the microbiome in your pond.
Routine pond cleaning to remove plant matter should be done once a year in spring or fall.
Marginal plants, which live near the water’s edge, can survive out of water but must be kept shaded, as with a tarp, and damp, as with a spray bottle or hose. Keep the water temperature consistent when transporting any fish so they don’t go into shock.
This is a good opportunity to repot plants and divide others that have begun to take up too much space in the pond.
Placing them in a shaded holding tank containing pond water prevents stress that harms the fish. Place leaf netting over the holding tanks to contain jumping fish such as koi.
Larger ponds with dropping water levels due to sediment buildup may benefit from excavation and bulldozing by a professional. [16] X Research source Dredging is an option for removing sediment without draining the water, but this requires heavy machinery and the sediment can break apart when moved.
Don’t use chemicals to attack algae, since this harms fish. Blast algae off rocks using a hose and pick up the string variety by hand or with a pole.
Rainwater can be collected by placing barrels under roof downspouts and wherever else you can find runoff. [19] X Research source Tap water used in the pond will be too cold for the fish, so before you release the fish, remove some water from the holding tank and replace it with some of the new water. Do this several times. [20] X Research source
