Smart pond care made simple.
Ponds can provide a rich habitat for a wide range of wildlife. However, without care, they can become overgrown and unsightly, with invasive weeds and water that is unhealthy. Occasional cleaning and regular maintenance are essential to keep your pond in good condition.
Must know tips for a healthy pond
- The best time to clean a pond is in late autumn, when most pond creatures are less active.
- Begin by preparing a holding tank in a shady spot for dish and deep-water plants. Use pond water in the tank unless it is particularly cloudy.
- The easiest way to drain the pond is by using a pump, which can often be rented from garden or machinery hire shops.
- As the water level drops, gently remove fish as they become visible and place them in the holding tank.
- Remove pond plants and place them in the holding tank. Take this opportunity to re-pot or divide them if needed.
- Scoop up silt from the bottom of the pond. You can spread this on garden borders as a soil conditioner but keep a small amount to return to the pond, it helps re-establish beneficial microorganisms.
- Clean the pond liner using a scrubbing brush and water, bailing out any remaining dirty water with a bucket.
- Refill the pond, ideally using rainwater and reposition pond plants as you go. Finally, return fish and other creatures.
Note, after a full clean, it may take several months for your bond to regain a balanced ecosystem. Be patient and support it with gentle maintenance along the way.