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...
96219 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...
74536 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...
71862 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...
52976 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...
30676 Views
Latest Articles
How Much Does It Cost To Take A Bath​?
Plumbers know that a bath may seem like a relaxing luxury, but the real cost extends far beyond your water bill. The average soak uses 35 to 50...
on Apr 8, 2025
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
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
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
Commercial Property DIY: Three Jobs You Should Never Try Yourself
There are some DIY projects that most people can do in their own home, and these can be tackled by anybody with little knowledge and the correct...
Places to Consider Anti-Slip Matting
There are five main locations around a commercial building where an anti-slip mat would be highly recommended; stairways, slippery areas, wet...
Fake Grass Many Names, Many Benefits
There are a number of different names used when we refer to artificial turf as it was originally called, and whether you call it fake grass,...
Mold Spore Growth Conditions and Water Damage Consequences
Molds and fungi are found everywhere inside and outside and can grow on almost any substance when moisture is present. Molds when they reproduce...
Building Your Own Home Office
According to a recent survey 2 out of every 7 people in the U.S alone are taking their work to their homes. This coupled with the increasing trend...