Frequently Asked Questions
What size liner do I need? Use this simple formula to estimate the size of liner required.
(Maximum length of pond)+ (2 times max depth)+ (Minimum of 2' overlap)= The length of liner required
How many fish can I have?
The general rule of thumb is 1" of fish per 10 gallons of water. This is only a very loose guideline, however as total surface area, flow rate, size and type of filtration are all to be considered when determining the right number of fish for your pond.
How many gallons are in my pond?
Measure the average length of your pond and multiply it by the average width and by the average depth and you will arrive with your total cubic feet of water. As there are 7.5 gallons per cubic foot, you can multiply your total cubic feet by 7.5 to get your total gallons in your pond. For example, a 4 foot by 6 foot pond 18" deep will be: 4 x 6 x 1.5 = 36 cubic feet. Then 36 x 7.5 = 270 gallons.
What size pump should I use?
There are many variables - but at a minimum, you want to completely circulate the water in your pond every 2 hours. That means that a 1000 gallon pond should have at the absolute minimum a 500 gph pump. If possible, turning your water over once an hour is highly recommended.
What kind of filter should I use?
With smaller ponds, you can get away with an in-pond filter, but most medium and large ponds are better served you external (out of pond) filters.
How much maintenance is required?
Well-balanced ponds require relatively little maintenance.
All that is really required are frequent equipment checks and the occasional cleaning. There is no need to drain the pond on a regular basis. Nets and pond skimmers can be used to remove fallen leaves and other plant materials. Any plant material that has built up on the bottom of the pond needs to be removed as this can pollute the water, which may affect other aquatic life.
What should I do before winter?
By putting netting over the pond, it helps reduce the debris from entering the pond during fall & winter. When your pond water temperature starts to drop, feed your fish food designed for lower water temperatures. When the water temperature drops to into the 40°s, feeding of your fish should stop. Bacterial treatments designed for fall application help maintain a healthy pond throughout the winter and will help jump start the pond in the spring. For ponds with fish, an opening in the surface ice is important. This allows poisonous gases to escape and allow some exchange of oxygen. This can be done with a floating de-icer or with air stones close to the pond surface.
How often should I change a UV bulb?
Most experts agree that UV bulbs lose their efficiency and should be replaced on a yearly basis.
What pond treatment is recommended to use for blanket weed?
Blanket weed normally appears in a clear pond. Products that have proven to be effective are Pond Balance by Interpet as well as Nature Clear™ by Nursery Pro. These help balance key micro nutrients for a clean, healthy pond. To be effective, the instructions must be followed closely.
What is the best way to repair a preformed pond?
There are universal repair kits available for repairing small punctures in preformed ponds. These will repair fibreglass and HDPE preformed ponds. The repair surface must be very clean before attaching patching material.
I'm not getting the maximum volume from my pump. What should I do?
Inspect your pump and check the following:
Check your tubing size - tubing sized too small will restrict the flow.
Check your pump pre-filter (if equipped) and clean if necessary.
Check for debris obstructing the intake on your pump.
Inspect your impeller - it may need cleaning or replacement.
How often do I need to clean the filter?
External (out of pond) filters should be cleaned when the flow of water back into the pond has been reduced.
In pond pre-filters should be cleaned when the output of the pump has been reduced to an unacceptable level.
How often should I feed my fish?
Fish can be fed once or twice a day during warm weather months. Fish should be fed moderate amounts of food. If the food has not been eaten in a five minute period - the excess should be removed from the pond, or your pond may become fouled.
What should I feed my fish?
Feed your fish only quality, highly digestable food that reduce waste excretion. Quality food such as Nursery Pro's Nutri-1 contain vitamins and fatty acids that promote fitness and the color enhancers bring out your fish's vibrant natural colors.