Tales of the Trowel

Summer Maintenance Tips for Water Features

Article by Jorge Ventana with input from Sonic Plumbing

Basic Pond Maintenance
Water features enrich a backyard, but can become troublesome if not tended too periodically.

Algae

The longer periods of sunlight associated with summer, and the increase in water temperatures, can lead to an increase in algae. Smaller outdoor water features may simply be drained, cleaned, and refilled; however, pond maintenance generally requires the use of filtration and the addition of enzymes that reduce algae but are safe for fish and desirable pond plants.

Monthly Water Changes

Water features, such as fountains, can be completely drained and refilled with water for an almost instant improvement of water clarity and odor. For summer pond maintenance, full water replacement is not an option, especially if there are flora and fauna already established. Consider changing five to ten percent of the water every four weeks. Although this may not get rid of all the odor-causing agents, it does make it possible to cut down on the severity of infestation and give enzymes an easier time getting algae problems under control.

Plant Control

Plant control is a summer maintenance task needed in order to avoid a loss of fish. The problem arises when the warmer temperatures and longer sunlight exposure lead to an increase in the amount of flora that the pond holds.
Plants consume more nightly oxygen, which in turn depletes the water sufficiently to leave fish unable to breathe. The sudden death and decomposition of excess plant life - usually brought on by a sudden withdrawal of sunlight or warmth - leads to further oxygen depletion and therefore fish mortality. Avoid this problem by keeping the pond's flora and fauna well-balanced and not allowing flora to reproduce unchecked.

Fish Food

If the water temperature is consistently above 50 degrees F, start feeding your fish low-protein, cool water foods that are easier to digest and help to minimize waste. Switch to a staple or growth food when water temperatures rise above 70 degrees F. Remove any uneaten food.
For more information, see LiveAquaria.com