Q - How much does a pond cost?

• Size
• A preformed pond or container water garden will cost much less than a 20' x 20' pond with a 15' stream.
 
• Waterfalls / Streams
• The more you add, typically the more supplies you'll need, the more the pond will cost.
 
• Depth
• Again, the deeper you go, the more time / supplies you will need to complete the project.
 
• Location
• If the pond is in an awkward location, the time it takes for installation can increase greatly.

Q - Do I have to have fish in my pond?

Fish are part of the recipe for a naturally balanced, aquatic ecosystem. A pond without fish is kind of like baking bread without the yeast. It just doesn’t work nearly as well. Not only that, but once you get used to watching them glide gracefully around your pond and you realize how little work is involved in fish keeping you, like most people, will get past the apprehension and be glad that you have fish in your pond. For more information on the natural ecosystem method of water gardening, check out our natural ecosystem section.

Q - If I have fish, do I really need to feed them?

No, the fish are scavengers and can generally live off of anything the find in the pond, including the algae.  On the other hand, if you want to see your fish grow in any significant way or if your pond is heavily stocked with fish, you will need to feed them. Give them no more than what they can gobble down in five minutes.  Excess food creates more nutrients that can encourage algae growth, causing more work for you. More fish care resources.

Q - How will my fish survive the winter?

If there’s a hole in the ice for gasses (including oxygen) to be exchanged, they’ll simply go down to the bottom of your pond and hibernate until spring.  Ponds that are 24” or deeper have plenty of space for the fish to be comfortable, even though ice can be 8 to 10” deep in the colder climates of North America.  For more information on winter maintenance, visit our winter maintenance section.

Q - Will predators eat my fish?  How do I prevent that?

• The Scarecrow motion-activated sprinkler. When a pest goes near the pond, the infra-red sensor detects it and the Scarecrow shoots a blast of water to scare them away. It has been known to also squirt unwary pets and forgetful pond owners on occasion.
• Terrestrial plantings – Many hunting birds, especially heron are reluctant to land directly in the pond. They prefer to land outside of the pond and wade in as not to disturb their prey (your fish). Landscaping near the pond, that makes wading in difficult, can help deter these predators.
• Pond netting – while not the most aesthetically pleasing option, it is fairly successful. A lightweight netting material is draped over the entire pond protecting it from everything but the most determined predators.

Q - Is it normal to see increased wildlife when you put a pond in the backyard?

Yes.  Creating an aquatic ecosystem invites the neighborhood wildlife.   These critters will range from squirrels and birds, toads, frogs, and dragonflies and are usually a great joy to watch.  It is all part of the hobby of pond keeping.

Q - Do I have to have plants in my pond?

Yes, plants are a vital ingredient for naturally balanced ecosystems in which Mother Nature does most of the upkeep.  Without aquatic plants, algae in the pond can take full advantage of the space, nutrients, and sunlight to turn your pond into a soupy mess.  Aquatic plants directly compete with algae for nutrients and, along with beneficial bacteria, keep it from taking over your pond.  For more information, visit our natural ecosystem page.

Q - Will the plants survive through the winter?

Just like regular garden plants, some aquatics are cold hardy and can be expected to survive the winter. Annuals (also known as tropicals) will need to be replanted each season unless you pull them out of the pond and store them in a warm place. For more information on winter maintenance, visit our winter maintenance section.

Q - Should I expect my pond to be totally algae-free?

Algae is part of Nature and you should expect it to be part of your pond – to a small degree. What you don’t want is for algae to take over your pond. Creating a natural ecosystem utilizing desirable plants will help keep the algae at a tolerable level. Excessive amounts of algae are typically found when the natural ecosystem is out of balance. For more information, visit our natural ecosystem page.

Q - Does the pond need to be drained frequently?

No, the only time it is necessary to drain your pond is during a clean-out, usually in the spring. You see, cleaning out a pond destroys most of the beneficial aerobic bacteria that your balanced aquatic ecosystem depends on. So save your cleanouts for once a year in the springtime, and eliminate headaches and unnecessary cost. More information on spring cleanouts.

Q - Will my pond attract / breed mosquitoes?

A properly-designed pond will not attract mosquitoes, as mosquitoes prefer stagnant water to produce their offspring. Most backyard-ponds have constantly moving water, between the skimmer and the waterfalls/streams. Additionally, any mosquito larvae that manage to hatch will either be sucked into the skimmer or eaten by the fish.

If your pond does not have a skimmer and/or fish, consider getting a pump and fountain combination. This should create enough water movement to discourage mosquitoes from visiting your pond.

Q - How much electricity does a pond use?

This depends on the size pump used and the cost of electricity in your area. A high-efficiency pump, producing 3000 gallons per hour will cost $21 per month on average. Smaller (high-efficiency) pumps will cost less and larger or non-efficiency pumps will cost more.

Q - Are there any organizations or clubs devoted to the water gardening hobby?

The North American Water Garden Society is a national organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the water gardening hobby. NAWGS has chapters all over the country holding monthly meetings and events. For more information on NAWGS, including how to join, visit www.nawgs.org.

Courtesy of Pond Lifestyles - an Aquascape Designs Website