10 tips for maintaining a large, natural pond

Waterfalls, floating fountains, and lake bed aerators keep oxygen circulating in the water and decaying organic material from becoming toxic, preventing fish loss and algae growth.

By Shirley Remes

Natural bacteria, such as in the products GreenEx or Microbe Lift PBL, can break down muck and sludge, cut down algae and aquatic weeds, and help reduce bad odors.

Blue or black pond dye limits sunlight from penetrating the water, thus, reducing the growth of algae and aquatic weeds. Many people also just like the color.

Remove nutrients in the water that can cause algae through the use of floating plant islands, such as hibiscus, water willow, and water snowball.

The best pH level for fish is 7.5 to 8. Add limestone chips to raise pH; sprinkle calcium carbonate to reduce it.

Use a pond rake to capture unwanted materials from the center of the pond.

A suggested ratio is one fish for every 10 gallons of pond water.

You may need to add water in a dry season for aquatic life to survive.

Fecal matter can contaminate a pond, and large animals could damage the banks.

Control weed growth by using a product that breaks down and is safe for wildlife.