Fish Pond FAQ and Expert Tips

One of the most enjoyable parts of keeping fish is adding a garden pond. It's relaxing to watch the pond in the evenings and to see the fish come to you at feeding time. Building and taking care of a pond might seem hard if you don't plan well, but every question has an answer, and this article aims to provide those answers.

Where Do I Start?

The best way to begin is by sketching a plan of what you want your pond to look like when it's done. Walk around your garden to find the ideal spot for the pond. This will also help you see how much space you have. Next, create a budget that you can stick to. This might influence your choices later on, like which materials to use. Once your plan is ready, use string or a hose to mark the area where the pond will go.

What's the Best Equipment to Dig a Pond?

In the past, the only way to dig your pond was by using a spade and doing it by hand. Thankfully, there is now equipment that makes this easier. You can hire a mobile bobcat or mini digger to help you dig the hole. When the equipment is delivered, the hire company will usually show you how to use it.

How Big Should the Pond Be?

There aren't strict rules about the length or width of the pond, but the depth should be at least 24 to 36 inches (60 to 92 cm) for most fish. If you're keeping Koi, the pond needs to be even deeper, at least 48 inches (122 cm). This is because, during winter, the fish will go to the bottom of the pond as the water cools down. If the pond isn't deep enough, they won't be safe from freezing.

What Are the Prices for Garden Ponds?

The cost of pond liners varies depending on what you choose. The most common option is a pre-formed pond liner that already has ledges and pits molded into it. These can range from small ponds costing 100-200 pounds (200-400 dollars) to large ones costing up to 500-600 pounds (1000-1200 dollars).

Many people opt for butyl sheeting for the liner because it's often cheaper. This type of liner starts at around 5 pounds (10 dollars) per square meter, depending on the thickness. Don't forget to factor in the cost of the underlay when buying this type of liner.

Is It Possible to Have a Pond Above Ground?

Above-ground ponds have become more popular recently. They're safer if you have small children and save you from digging a large hole. You can create the pond's structure with railway sleepers or build up decorative brickwork to form the walls. In my case, I dug down 2 feet (61 cm) and raised the pond another 2 feet (61 cm) to reach a total depth of 4 feet (122 cm).

Always remember that with a raised pond, you need to consider the strength of the sides because the water pressure will be high.

Can I Build a Pond on a Low Budget?

Not everyone can afford a high-budget pond, but there are ways to save money. Some pond keepers have successfully used a waterproof tarp for the liner, which is a cost-effective option. If you need a small pond, you can bury a plastic barrel or something similar to hold the water. There are also ways to make your own pond filter, which will be covered in a future article.

What Can Damage a Pond?

In my experience, there are three main causes of pond damage. If you use a butyl liner, sunlight will break down the rubber over time. Most flexible liners come with a 15-25 year guarantee, but they won't last forever. This is something to consider before you decide on a liner.

Punctures are the most common problem for pond keepers. This can happen with both butyl liners and pre-formed ponds. Dropping something heavy into the pond or not using enough underlay can cause punctures.

Frost can also damage your pond over the years by causing brickwork to crack or split. It may take a long time, but it's something to keep in mind when planning your pond.

How Can I Decorate the Pond?

The possibilities for decoration are endless. Lighting is a popular choice; placing lights around the pond or even under the water creates a beautiful effect. Most lighting kits are easy to install, and you can even find solar lights designed for ponds that require no wiring. If you're using lights that connect to the mains, have a qualified electrician install them or check the work you have done.

Create a waterfall from the extra soil you dug out when making the pond. A natural-looking waterfall not only soothes with its splashing water but also helps oxygenate the water.

Which Fish Can I Add to the Pond, and What Do They Need to Survive?

There are many fish species that can live outdoors in a pond. The most common choice is the goldfish, which will grow larger than they do in an aquarium. Koi are also popular and can live peacefully with goldfish. Other fish that can be added include Golden Orfes, Mosquito Fish, Minnows, and even a Common Plec.

All fish need the same basic things: well-oxygenated and well-filtered water. A good rule of thumb is to add 1 inch (2.54 cm) of fish for every 3-4 gallons (13.64-18.18 liters, 3.6-4.8 US gallons) of water.

Can I Use Well Water in the Pond, or Does It Have to Be from the Mains?

Well water can be used as long as it isn't stagnant or contaminated. I prefer to use mains water, which I hose into the pond for filling and during water changes. Some well water might even be better for the pond, but it's a good idea to have it tested before using it.

How Do I Add Oxygen to the Water?

Ever seen a pond with a decorative fountain or waterfall? Not only do they look good, but they also add oxygen to the water by creating movement and surface agitation. Fountains draw water from below the surface and release it at the top, adding oxygen as it falls back into the pond. Waterfalls work similarly and offer a more natural look if designed well.

Which Chemicals Should I Add to Improve Water Quality?

Pond fish can suffer if the water becomes too acidic, so it's important to test the water and ensure the pH is neutral or slightly above. If the pH drops, you can add a pH stabilizer to bring it back to 7.0, which is ideal for pond fish. Another common chemical is a water clarifier, which helps keep the water clear and the pond healthy.

Water conditioners are also useful during water changes. They neutralize ammonia and chloramines in the water, making it safe for the fish.

How Do I Keep My Pond in Great Shape?

There are a few things you should do throughout the year to keep your pond looking good and your fish healthy.

• Every month, change about 5-10% of the pond's water. This will add fresh nutrients and help remove nitrates.
• Use a long-handled brush to clean the sides of the pond and get rid of unwanted algae.
• Check the filters for blockages and rinse out the sponges occasionally to keep them from getting clogged.
• Remove any debris from the surface of the pond, like dead leaves, which can rot and poison the water.
• Consider getting a pond vacuum to clean the bottom; any muddy residue can break down into harmful compounds.
• Regularly test your water to make sure the levels are stable.

How Do I Stop Algae from Taking Over My Pond?

Algae can be a problem if not controlled. The three main causes are too much sunlight, not enough filtration, or a filter that isn't strong enough. To control feeding, just give your fish less food at each meal; they won't go hungry. You might need to upgrade your pond filter or add a UV light to the system. If you planned your pond properly, sunlight shouldn't be an issue. There are also natural ways to deal with algae, like using Barley Straw. Throw a small bundle into the pond to help keep the water clear.

Why Do My Fish Eat the Pond Plants, and Are There Any They Won't Eat?

Pond fish naturally eat plant material, so they may nibble on your pond plants. Many pond plants can handle this and still thrive. The safest plants are usually the marginal ones placed on shallow ledges, which are out of the fish's reach. Some plants can be set in aquatic baskets to protect their roots, but fish will still try to eat them. Unfortunately, fish don't realize the plants are for decoration.

Which Fish or Invertebrates Can Help Keep My Pond Clean?

Two of the best algae-eating fish I've kept are the Common Plec and Sturgeons. They spend all day grazing on algae, keeping the pond sides clean. Pond snails are also great for pond maintenance. They eat algae and any uneaten food at the bottom of the pond without harming the plants, making them ideal residents. Snails prefer shady spots under plants, as they don't like bright sunlight. If your pond isn't planted, they may not be as happy.

Can Mosquito Larvae Live in Pond Filters, and Should I Use a Mosquito Net Over the Pond?

This is a common question, as many pond keepers find larvae in their filters. The larvae can survive in the filter but won't harm anything while they're there. Any that get flushed out will be eaten by the fish as a free snack.

Using a mosquito net over the pond might stop larvae from appearing in your water, but they are also a high-protein food for the fish. I think it's better to use a standard pond net and let nature take its course with the insect life.

Can I Keep Freshwater Clams in the Pond?

Freshwater clams can actually be good for ponds. They are filter feeders and will eat detritus from the water, which can help reduce nitrate levels. They need a sandy substrate to partially burrow into, but as long as your local climate isn't too harsh, there's no reason why they can't live in your pond.

What Is the Kindest Way to Euthanize a Sick Fish?

One of the hardest parts of keeping fish is knowing when to end a fish's suffering if it has a disease or infection that can't be treated. There are several ways to do this, but some are not to my liking. The gentlest method I've found is to mix some clove oil in a bit of water and then add the fish. This allows the fish to pass away peacefully.

Pond fish (Koi's and Goldfish)

Pond frogs