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| Pond Maintenance |
The 'ART' of fish keeping in a pond is based on
water quality, the water can look like 'pea-soup'
(and often does) but the fish thrive, yet it can be
clear as Gin and poisonous.
Filters and chemicals may all be used to keep your
pond clear. External filters are powered by a pump
submerged in the pond and are sized according to the
volume of the pond and the pump. Chemicals kill the
algae but do not remove it from the pond. New ponds
filled with tap water, will contain all the chemicals
that protect us from Bacteria, but a fish bred in a
pond in China or Israel is not used to being dumped
into Chlorine or any other chemicals.
Spring is the most difficult time of the year for
pond fishes. They have laid dormant for several
months, the sun comes out and warms the water, and
the fish start to move around.
Feeding starts when the temperature of the water
reaches 10oC (50oF) the bodies of the fish have
warmed up and digestive systems can function
properly. Parasites and Bacteria already in the pond
also build up at this time and weak fish succumb. A
simple pond treatment is recommended at this time,
once light feeding has started.
There are many safe water test kits and water
treatments. All of them simple to use and are
available, along with our range of filters and
suitable food, at both garden centres.
Some Reminders- De-Chlorinate Tap Water.
- Few fish added over a long period
- Check the Ammonia levels each time you add
fish
- Check the Acid/Alkaline content with a
PH kit
- Green water is a natural phenomenon it
can be treated, but it takes time, sometimes
months.
Two Very Important Points- Do not add treatments for one problem
whilst treating for another.
- No two ponds are alike. Your neighbours
pond will not re-act like yours.
Take your time and satisfaction can be
guaranteed. |
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Alan Titchmarsh visited Inver Garden Centre |
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Best Small Garden Centre in Northern Ireland
Award |
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