Environment

The ideal pond should be at least 2ft (60cm) deep, preferably over 90cm for Koi with as big a surface area as is practical.

Deep ponds will help the fish to survive hard winters whilst large ponds are more likely to achieve a natural balance of plant life, enabling the fish to survive and flourish with minimal attention. A large volume of water will better maintain temperature stability, which is beneficial to the fish. Plants help to provide cover, assist oxygenation and convert fish waste, which assists with their natural growth. Plants should be thinned out if the cover exceeds 30 per cent of the water surface.

Food

Be careful not to overstock your pond or overfeed your fish. Feeding may be necessary only every other day, and less frequently in winter. Feed according to manufacturers’ instructions. During the summer there is likely to be natural food so take this into account. Provide suitable food for all species of fish in the pond. A good rule is to feed your fish the amount they are likely to eat within two minutes, to prevent uneaten food rotting at the bottom of the tank.

This information is supported by the Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association. For more information and advice visit www.ornamentalfish.org

Environment

The ideal pond should be at least 2ft (60cm) deep, preferably over 90cm for Koi with as big a surface area as is practical.

Deep ponds will help the fish to survive hard winters whilst large ponds are more likely to achieve a natural balance of plant life, enabling the fish to survive and flourish with minimal attention. A large volume of water will better maintain temperature stability, which is beneficial to the fish. Plants help to provide cover, assist oxygenation and convert fish waste, which assists with their natural growth. Plants should be thinned out if the cover exceeds 30 per cent of the water surface.

Food

Be careful not to overstock your pond or overfeed your fish. Feeding may be necessary only every other day, and less frequently in winter. Feed according to manufacturers’ instructions. During the summer there is likely to be natural food so take this into account. Provide suitable food for all species of fish in the pond. A good rule is to feed your fish the amount they are likely to eat within two minutes, to prevent uneaten food rotting at the bottom of the tank.

This information is supported by the Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association. For more information and advice visit www.ornamentalfish.org

Equipment you will require

  1. Pre-formed pond or good quality liner
  2. Filter, pump or UV steriliser (optional)
  3. Appropriate foods for each time of the year
  4. Pond plants

Pond Requirements & Guidance

  • Pond styles vary from formal to wildlife and everything in between. The choice is yours!
  • Ponds can be constructed of a variety of materials. You will need to estimate your material requirements.
  • Choose a site for your pond carefully and avoid boggy ground mains services, overhanging trees and areas where pesticides are used.
  • Ensure your pond is deep enough to avoid the extremes of temperature. Ideally at least 45 – 60 cm deep and over 90cm for Koi.
  • Your pond may need a filter. It is best to incorporate this into your initial plan. Ask for advice as to how this can be best achieved. Water quality can be easily monitored using test kits
  • Make sure that you don’t slock fish which are too big for your pond. And don’t stock too many. The bigger the pond, the better!
  • Stocking your pond with plants so that up to two thirds of the surface is covered can enhance your pond and help combat green water.  A southerly aspect will help the stocked plants grow. U.V. filtration and chemicals can also be used.
  • Ensure adequate aeration such as fountains or water features, particularly but not only in hot conditions

Remember Fish are living animals

Treat them with care and they will repay you with years of enjoyment!