Designing And Maintaining Koi Ponds New Jersey

| Friday, January 10, 2014
By Marissa Velazquez


The first element of designing Koi ponds New Jersey is deciding on size and placement. Custom elements that give a pond a unique but natural look are bridges, waterfalls, streams, fountains, and plants. Lighting adds to the ambiance by showcasing a waterfall or lighting up a walkway. For a beautiful pond that will also maintain a healthy fish population, consider employing the services of a professional design and construction company. Most also offer maintenance services monthly, seasonally, as needed, and/or 24 hour emergency repairs.

Monthly service takes the worry out of maintaining a Koi pond. The ecosystem must be kept in balance to keep fish alive. Service includes adding and changing water, maintaining proper water chemistry, removing debris, trimming aquatic plants, cleaning filters and skimmers, and checking pumps. Seasonal services prepare ponds for warming weather in the spring, and for cooling and cold weather in fall and winter.

Koi fish are descendants of the lowly carp. They were harvested as a source of protein by rice farmers of Japan. Around mid-1800, mutated fish with splotches of red and white began appearing in the harvest. Rice farmers began a selective breeding program producing the beautiful variety with over 100 pattern types that we know today. Koi enthusiasts have formed local clubs where enthusiasts gather together to share information. Meetings include lectures, pond tours, and Koi shows.

Two thousand gallons of water are needed for every 20 full grown Koi. Pumps should circulate the total volume of water at least once per hour. For your expensive investment to live and thrive, the water pump and filtration system must be properly sized. An ultraviolet sterilizer is also a necessity. Heat is critically important in cold weather areas.

Install a skimmer if your pond is located near trees. Clean leaves out of the pond daily. Ponds should include both sunny and shady areas within the fish's environment. Keep water conditions healthy by testing for chlorine, pH, salinity, alkalinity, hardness, nitrates, nitrites, phosphate, copper, oxygen. If unsure, contract with a service company monthly, or at least seasonally, to be sure your pond remains a healthy ecosystem.

Raccoons, mink, and some birds enjoy Koi as a tasty meal. Building a pond that's at least 4' deep discourages mink and raccoons. Lilly pads and water squirting scarecrows discourage birds. A pond design that can be covered with netting if birds become a nuisance can save your fish.

Plants are part of a healthy ecosystem. They convert carbon dioxide to oxygen. They help to filter water. They offer shade and cover from predators. Consider the amount of sunlight available when choosing aquatic plants. Different plants prefer different environments like still water, moving water, or deep water.

If you're building a pond yourself, it's a good idea to consult with an expert. Have a professional review your design and construction plans to be sure you're creating a workable pond that will be a healthy environment. For help with design, construction, and/or maintenance, call on a professional.

Hiring a professional firm to create your unique vision is a great way to create that relaxing place you will enjoy and your friends will admire. With a professional service that has built hundreds of Koi ponds New Jersey, you can be sure the ecosystem will be designed to meet the health needs of the fish. Your professional service can also maintain, repair, clean, and upgrade your system.




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