FAQs

Why should we hire Pond Wizard to
build our water garden?

Building an ecosystem pond is a specialty.  A good landscaper isn't necessarily knowledgeable in the concept, design, or construction that makes an organic water garden work.  Over the years, the Pond Wizard has repaired or rebuilt many water gardens, many of which were originally built by well known landscape companies.  It is easier, cheaper, and much less stressful to hire the Pond Wizard and get it done right the first time.  The Pond Wizard stands behind everything we do.  Should you have a problem, we will be there to help!  Don't take chances – hire the Pond Wizard!

Are ponds hard to maintain ?

Ecologically-balanced water gardens let Mother Nature do the "heavy lifting."  Make sure you install a water garden that works with Mother Nature, not against her.  Top quality ecosystems include mechanical and biological filtration, lots of aquatic plants, fish, active bacteria, and plenty of rocks and gravel.  The result is no water testing, clogged filters  stagnant water, or mucky bottoms that need constant draining and cleaning!

How often should I clean the filters ?

A well designed, ecologically-balanced pond needs only a scoop of powder bacteria every month or so.  The skimmer basket needs a weekly cleaning and then an annual spring cleaning.  In gardening terms, an ecologically-balanced pond is about as much work as maintaining an established perennial border, minus the weeding and watering.  Aquatic plants water themselves.  The big maintenance item is a recommended annual spring cleanout.  Many opt for having the Pond Wizard do this for them.  ($200-300)

Do ponds breed mosquitoes ?

Mosquitoes only breed in stagnant water.  A pond with a good water flow will drown mosquito larvae.  Our pond system may actually reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area!

What is a biofalls ?

The biofalls is a filter system that also functions as a waterfall.  This filter supports huge colonies of beneficial bacteria.  These bacteria clean the water without any harsh chemicals.  This filter system creates an environmental friendly ecosystem that is safe for all.

What is a skimmer ?

The skimmer performs several functions.  It collects leaves and floating debris for easy removal.  It will stop the flow of water should the water level get too low and it also easily hides the pump and plumbing.

What kind of pumps should I use ?

We only use high efficiency pumps.  These pumps last longer and cost much less to operate than normal pumps.

Why do I need stone and gravel in my pond ?

Stone and gravel help protect your pond liner and helps stabilize the ponds walls. It provides a large surface area for algae fighting enzymes and bacteria to colonize. Gravel will also provide a growing medium for your plants.

Why do I need underwater lighting ?

Lighting increases the time your pond can be enjoyed.  This is especially important to busy people who work all day!

What size should I make my pond ?

An 11 ft x 16 ft pond is a good size for beginning pond gardeners, allowing for enough space for future plants and maturing fish.  It is hard to resist buying new plants and fish for your pond, so allow plenty of room for growth.  Remember, it is much easier and cheaper to build a larger pond now than to enlarge it later.

Can I build a pond in the shade ?

Most water plants bloom best in high sunlight conditions, but will grow well with as little as 3 hours of direct sunlight a day. Plants in shady areas will require a little more fertilizer.

Where should I build my pond ?

A pond should be constructed close to the house near your patio, deck, etc.  Try to place the pond in an area that offers a good view from inside your home for year round enjoyment.  Also, remember that you will need easy access to water and electricity.  Many people believe that the low spot on the back of their property would be a good place for a pond; this is in fact the worst place.

Should I put plants in my pond ?

Water plants are a very important element of any pond.  Water plants reduce algae, give fish a hiding place, oxygenate the water, provide food for fish and enhance the natural beauty of the pond.

Are water plants hard to care for ?

No.  Water plants are self-watering and most return year after year.  We do suggest that you insert fertilizer tablets around the base of your plants in the spring.  Occasional removal of dead leaves and stems from your plants will help the appearance of your pond.

Do I need fish in my pond ?

You do not have to put fish in your pond. However, fish make your pond come alive with color, they help control algae and provide nutrients for your plants.  Fish are the perfect pet; they take care of themselves!  You don't even need to feed them if you don't want to.

How many fish should I put in my pond ?

You may have a maximum of 1" of fish for every 1 square foot of surface area.  For example, a 10' x 10' pond can support 100" of fish, that's 20, 5-inch fish or 10,10-inch fish.  Always allow plenty of room for fish to grow.  Too many fish in a pond can lead to excessive algae growth.

Will raccoons eat my fish ?

A well constructed pond that is 2' deep and at least 8' in diameter will have ample space for fish to escape raccoons.

Should I take my fish inside for the winter ?

No.  Goldfish and Koi are very hardy fish that adapt well to cold water.  Avoid letting the pond freeze over completely.  Although they should be fine, keeping a hole in the ice is a good idea.  This allows gases from decomposing plants to escape.  By using a submerged pump, a floating heater or letting your waterfall run, you can keep a hole in the ice all winter.  We use a pond heater for a backup.  If your pump fails for an extended period of extreme cold and freezes your pond you may want to have a pond heater handy for emergency use.  Caution: Should your pond freeze solid, do not try to break the ice with a hammer or any other object.  The shock may injure your fish!

Will a pond decrease my property values ?

Carpets fade, paint peels and furniture gets worn, but a high quality, low maintenance water feature increases in beauty and value every year.

How do I limit algae in my pond?
Algae require nutrients and sunlight, decreasing either of these factors will limit algae.  Following are means of doing this:

     1. Your biofalls biological filter supports large colonies of beneficial bacteria that absorb many of the nutrients algae need. Adding supplemental bacteria (Aqua Clearer) regularly will help also.
     2. Always put a variety of plants in your pond. Plants absorb nutrients from the water.  Some plants such as water lilies help shade the water, which also helps.
     3. Large Koi fish 10" and larger will consume large quantities of algae.
     4. Don't over feed fish!

Occasionally, you may experience algae growth in the spring or fall.  If this happens, don't be alarmed.  Add some Aqua Clearer to your skimmer filter and be patient.  The algae will diminish in about 2 weeks.

Do I need a UV light to kill algae ?

UV light sterilizers may appear to be the answer to a green water problem, but this is only a quick fix.  These systems have drawbacks.  UV lights start losing their effectiveness as soon as you turn them on.  After 6 months they may be completely ineffective.  Manufacturers love the fact that you are going to buy another UV bulb at least once a year.  You will not like it so much.  UV lights radiate your pond water to kill algae.  This process also kills beneficial bacteria and other organisms that help keep your pond healthy.  In the long run, it is much easier to work with nature.  A small amount of string algae is a natural part of any pond.  You should seek to limit the amount of algae but realize that you may not eliminate it completely.  The best way to assure clear water is:

1. Start with a high quality pond system.
2. Construct your pond according to the instructions with rocks and gravel on the bottom.
3. Add fish and plants to your pond.
4. Use beneficial bacteria to reduce harmful nutrient levels in your pond.

For more information, see "How do I limit algae in my pond?"

What should I do with my pond in the winter ?

You have a couple of options for the winter.

1. Let your waterfall run all winter.  If you do this, check your ponds water level often.  Do not let the water level get too low or the skimmer will stop the water flow and allow your pond to freeze.  You will need to supplement your ponds water supply by adding buckets of water or maybe run a hose out a window to fill your pond in the freezing temperatures.
2. Shut down the waterfall and install a re-circulating pump in your pond.  If this is done you must remove your pump and backflow valve.  Place your re-circulating pump in an area that allows a strong water flow near the surface of the pond.
3. Use a floating heater.  Keep in mind that these heaters use a lot of electricity and may cost a lot to operate.  We recommend that you keep one on hand.  If your pump fails, the heater will keep your pond open until you get your pump repaired or replaced.

Will my pond have algae ?

There are two types of algae that water gardeners may experience.  Suspended algae consist of microscopic algae floating throughout the water.  This causes the water to turn green.  Filamentous (or string) algae forms green hair like strings that attach themselves to rocks and plants in your pond.  String algae are part of a natural ecosystem and actually help remove fish waste and other toxins from the water.  However, too much string algae can be unsightly.  You should only try to limit the amount of algae, not eliminate it completely.