Pondering Ponds
by Dan Eskelson on Apr 28, 2012
Those of you familiar with my writing are accustomed to raves and rants about doing things in cooperation with nature instead of fighting against her; many years of trying it both ways have convinced me that the natural way is less costly to install and maintain is easier on our fragile natural resources - and more fun!
My goal is for the most natural, low maintenance systems. My research unearthed numerous horror stories of thick, "pea soup" green ponds which had become nightmares to their owners.
Drastic measures were taken to rid the ponds of the algae problem - extensive, sand-based filter systems and extremely expensive ultraviolet light sterilizers were used in an attempt to solve the problem.
I felt that the above "solutions" were merely treating the symptoms rather than the causes...the UV light did indeed kill the algae, but also killed all the beneficial pond organisms - those that contributed to the reduction of algae - so the problem returned soon with even greater severity.
I finally found a system based on cooperation with natural systems - one that was inherently low maintenance; following are several of the basic principles of this system, principles that soon tribute to a healthy, low maintenance water feature.
One of the most important conditions to provide in the pond is a rock and gravel floor...the millions of tiny spaces created are colonized by beneficial microorganisms that break down organic waste deposited by fish and decomposing plant parts. Using rocks and gravel creates a huge biological filter, reducing maintenance for the separate filter and creating a clean, healthy environment. Rocks and gravel also:
- Provide a home for helpful aquatic insects and snails
- Protects the liner from sun and damage from larger animals
- is more natural-looking than a smooth surface
- is not slippery like smooth surfaces
- will hold the liner securely in place.
Including aquatic plants in your pond also contributes to a healthy ecosystem; plants use the carbon dioxide and nutrients that are produced by the beneficial organisms in the gravel and the biological filter. Without plants, there would be a nutrient overload in the pond, resulting in toxic conditions for other pond life. and yes, algae is planting life - a small number of algae is normal, and even beneficial, to the pond ecosystem...we just don't want the algae to get out of control. aquatic plants also provide:
- beauty for the pond
- oxygen for pond animals
- shade from intense sunlight
- food for insects and fish
- shelter for small pond creatures.
Other factors contribute to the beauty and health of the low-maintenance pond ecosystem. Colorful fish provide hours of relaxing entertainment, as well as feasting on algae, mosquito larvae, and other insects. Though most pond owners feed a small amount of food to their fish, in a well-balanced pond, fish can feed themselves. It's also important to provide an efficient skimmer to catch the larger surface debris, and a biological filter, through which the pond water is pumped. In conclusion, a healthy, clean, and beautiful pond ecosystem relies on the interrelationship of all parts. Each link is important for the survival of the whole.
My initial research into water features turned up a multitude of systems and options - along with a lot of conflicting ideas and advice. The system that impressed us as the most user-friendly, lowest maintenance, and most compatible with nature is produced by aquascape Designs...we've been providing these systems to satisfied clients for two seasons. We recently completed our water garden installation here at our home - to say we're satisfied is a major understatement! Enjoying the beauty and tranquility of our new pond and waterfall has become a relaxing daily ritual.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
92350 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
73169 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71270 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
51725 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30177 Views
Latest Articles
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginner's Guide
By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...
on Dec 19, 2024
Global Real Estate Trends: What’s Driving Property Investments This Year?
For investors hoping to optimise returns in the ever-changing world of real estate, knowing current trends is not merely a matter of staying...
on Dec 19, 2024
5 Reasons to Use Gutter Cleaning Services
Gutters protect your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from your roof, walls, and foundation. However, they often required regular...
on Nov 14, 2024
Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home
Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...
on Oct 18, 2024
The Appeal and Longevity of Natural Oil Finishes for Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors exude warmth, character, and timeless appeal in any home. To preserve and enhance these qualities, choosing the right finish is...
on May 17, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginner's Guide
on Dec 19, 2024
Real Estate / Finance
By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...
Global Real Estate Trends: What’s Driving Property Investments This Year?
on Dec 19, 2024
Real Estate / Finance
For investors hoping to optimise returns in the ever-changing world of real estate, knowing current trends is not merely a matter of staying...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Get Your Home Regular Maintenance
When you made this house in your youth, it was like a dream come true for you and your better half. You two took the best care to design even a...
Mold Allergy: The Reason You Need Mold Removal
Have you ever imagine how you would feel if your friends are going out but you can’t go with them because you have some infection? Well, at some...
Bathroom Decoration for the Space Conscious Home
An en suite bathroom can add value to a property, and represent a real source of convenience for a family home. Designing one normally involves...
Contractor State Licensing Requirements
List of contractor license requirements by state in the US. How do you find out if a contractor is licensed with links to each state's licensing...
Variable Frequency Drives: to Maximize Power Savings
It has been tested by a lot of professionals in the electrical industry that pumps with variable frequency drives can reduce maintenance in the...