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How the Summer Sun Can Help Maintain Your Pond
One of the most difficult times of year for a pond is the summer. While the pond is great for aesthetics, it can really take a beating and lose some of its stunning features in the summer due to the high temperatures and lack of rain. It may sound counterproductive but did you know that the sun can actually help maintain your pond if utilized property? How does one do this? With a solar fountain from Outdoor Water Solutions. First, here is how the summer months can wreak havoc on your pond. In order to maintain the health of its aquatic life, the water in ponds needs to be continuously circulated so that debris does not settle at the bottom and turn to muck. The circulation also maintains the oxygen levels needed for healthy wildlife. In some parts of the country, summertime usually means a lack of rain which can be a problem for ponds. Rainwater assists in flushing out the pond and circulating the pond water, resulting in an eco-friendly way to assist in the maintenance of your pond. Most individuals who live in an area of the country that receives very little rain usually invest in a pond aerator to help maintain their pond. However, not everyone wants to have an increased electricity bill and, further, not everyone’s pond is located near an energy source. This is where a solar pond aerator comes into play. What is a Solar Pond Aerator? Solar pond aerators are a great way to prevent stagnation and stratification as they push air through the water creating a healthier environment for your wildlife. Besides maintaining your pond, one of the best aspects of a solar pond aerator is they don’t require a power source or wind to operate. They’re also perfect for anyone who is focused on being environmentally friendly. Solar pond aerators come in a variety of styles from those that sit underwater and floating solar pond fountains. Floating solar pond fountains are a great addition to any pond as they add to the aesthetics of the pond and create a little ambiance. The best part is, this aesthetically pleasing solar fountain can be powered 100% on solar energy while also keeping your pond and aquatic life healthy. And it’s not just residential ponds that you’ll see these types of solar pond aerators. From hotels to golf courses, those gorgeous ponds that add to the experience of the venue or course are (mostly) floating solar pond fountains. For businesses, solar fountains are a better option as they’re cost-effective, they add a beautiful touch to the pond, and a power source is not necessary for them to operate. The summer sun can do some damage to our ponds but it can also help maintain them. If your pond is taking a beating from the sun, give us at Outdoor Water Solutions a call today! We have a variety of solar pond aerators and floating solar pond fountains available to not only beautify your pond but will also keep your pond water flowing, ensuring it remains clean and healthy for your aquatic life. Check out our solar pond aerator products and contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
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Pond Care 101: Tips and Tricks
A pond is a beautiful addition to any landscape. It provides a natural yet unique layout that complements the surrounding area. Moreover, although ponds are great for any landscape, it is also important to care for them properly. It may seem difficult at first. However, it can be a simple process once you get the hang of things. Let’s go over some tips and tricks that will make your pond more beautiful. Proactive Vs. Reactive When caring for a pond, you will find two methods: proactive or reactive. Preventive measures are your best option for keeping your pond clean and beautiful. On the other hand, reactive methods can also work to clear gunk or pond muck in a matter of days. Which is better? As mentioned, the proactive works to keep your pond in a healthy state. The reactive method can include doing spot treatments for trouble areas in your pond when they appear. One of the best things you can do for your pond is adding Outdoor Water Solutions Pond Pack. Each pack contains a water clarifier, pond dye, and aerobic bacteria. These three work together to keep your pond clean and clear all year long. Natural Clarifiers and Bacteria Pond muck is a collection of leaves, branches, animal waste, bad bacteria, excessive nutrients, and algae. Natural herbicides or algaecides are helpful to prevent this type of buildup in your pond. If you have trouble with excessive nutrients at the bottom of your pond, we recommend adding concentrated aerobic bacteria in a barley straw medium and water clarifier. Both of these come in the Pond Pack. The bacteria helps break down excess nutrients in the water column. Additionally, it consumes excess organic material that builds up on the bottom of your pond. Water clarifier helps control excess phosphorous in the water and works in conjunction with pond dye to help your pond remain healthy. Pond Dyes One of the main culprits that can speed up the growth of algae bloom and bacteria is the sun. This can be especially true in the summer when the hottest weather creates a prime environment for algae and bacteria to grow. The sun’s rays can penetrate deep into the pond waters, where pond muck will form. However, pond dyes are the perfect solution for that added protection you need. Pond dyes produce shade, blocking a good amount of sunlight. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
How to Keep Unwanted Pests Out of My Pond
Ponds can accentuate any landscape just the way you want. It adds to the overall beauty and relaxing ambiance you want to achieve. However, if you're going to keep your pond beautiful along with thriving pond life, you must keep pests away. This can include mosquitoes, geese, possums, raccoons, and more. So what ways can help keep those unwanted pests out of your pond? Let's go over some valuable tips that can help. Protect Your Fish When you have fish in your pond, they can become vulnerable to various predators. Herons and raccoons, in particular, are intelligent animals that can find ways to catch and eat your fish. One way to deter or minimize these pests from hunting your fish is by using plants to cover your pond. Giving your fish natural coverage in the pond can keep these pests at bay. Your fish can hide under these plants or even rocks deep in the water. Pond Coloring Works Pond dye not only controls algae but also keeps unwanted pests out of your pond. Tinting your pond creates a dark color to block the view at the surface. You can choose from a dark blue color or a mix of colors. If you already have a problem with existing predators in your pond, such as snapping turtles, it would be best to remove them safely. When it comes to snapping turtles, the last thing you want to do is remove them by hand. Your best bet is to use a turtle trap. Baiting the trap with fish or meat will lure the turtle into the trap for easy removal. Adding Decoys Animals usually stay away from a pond if you have a well-placed decoy. Now, you can use a couple of alternatives as decoys. First, you can use swan, alligator, and even coyote decoys. This will keep away birds and other small animals that try to get near your pond, such as geese. Secondly, you can use a heron decoy or Koi shelters to help protect your fish. Whatever you decide to use for your pond, remember to place your baits strategically to keep away predators and other unwanted pests. Pond Aeration for Mosquitoes A mosquito is one of the most annoying pests you can find in a pond. To keep away mosquitoes, you have to install a pond aeration system. Since mosquitoes are attracted to stagnant water, an aeration system will keep the water flowing, preventing mosquitoes from gathering. Keeping Away the Smaller Pests The biggest tip to keeping pests away from your pond is maintenance. For example, if you have a problem with aquatic leaf beetles, removing any dead foliage in the fall and spring months is essential. Aphids are other pests that like to eat greens and feed on sap from plants. Although spraying them with water works, you can also use ladybugs to eat the aphids. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators & solar pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our solar pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
How to Add a Floating Pond Fountain to Your Professional Landscape
The Water Feature and Your Landscape A landscape can be a beautiful complement to any layout. The landscape can serve as the whole layout in parks, golf courses, and more. Of course, golf courses or recreation parks can also have a pond or lake to enhance their overall design. Many may wonder, what else can you add with your water feature? The first thing you should add to the water is a floating pond fountain. However, before adding a floating pond fountain like the Classic Line of Floating Pond Fountain from Outdoor Water Solutions to your pond, you will need to consider a few things. Include Aeration With Your Fountain One of the main things to keep in mind is that you want your water to be clean and clear. Because of this, you want to improve the quality of your water. This can be done by investing in an aerator. Coupled together with the floating pond fountain, you'll be able to achieve moving and flowing water under the surface as well as above the waterline. Why is moving water necessary? One of the main reasons is that stagnant water can negatively affect the pond's ecosystem. As a result, you could get foul odors, dirty water, and muck in your pond. Aesthetically Pleasing A floating pond fountain can also be aesthetically pleasing to the eye and increase the beauty of your pond. The enhanced atmosphere will draw more attention to the pond or lake. Before you decide to install a pond fountain, make sure that you meet all the necessary codes and requirements. Some states do have different requirements, so you must consider those. If you cannot use electricity to install your floating pond fountain, you could also invest in a solar alternative. Consider the Costs and Alternatives When it comes to the cost, make sure to think about quality. OWS offers the classic line as well as the more budget-friendly Eco Line. You want to invest in a fountain that works for your needs. Either option is guaranteed to last you a long time. In conclusion, remember to buy a fountain that is appropriate for the pond's size. This can include the depth of the water and overall volume. Rest assured that our pond experts can give you advice on which types of floating pond fountains would work best for your pond. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
Can I Eliminate Pond Muck?
What is Pond Muck? The result of pond muck is a collection of algae bloom and other types of debris that accumulates on the bottom of your pond. When it comes to pond muck, it can makemanaging the pond a real challenge as that excess organic matter releases nitrogen and phosphorus which feeds algae and weeds. Moreover, it can also add an unhealthy habitat for all pond life. You can quickly notice pond muck in the waters. You'll be able to spot large areas of sludge with a brown or black color. If you get close enough or decide to go swimming, you may also experience a foul odor. So how can you manage and ultimately rid your pond of this muck? Let's go over a few ways that can help. The Surface Aeration Method First, we can consider the surface aeration method. This can be achieved by investing in a floating pond fountain. Fountains are usually good at aerating the surface of the pond. As the water rises into the air from the fountain and drops in the water, it creates ripples of bubbles, which extend outward. However, they can only reach 6-8’ few feet deep into the water. For ponds deeper than this, pond aeration can help. The Bottom Aeration Alternative If you need something for bottom pond aeration, you can consider aerators specifically designed to go at the bottom of the pond. In this case, the aeration method works the same. However, the aeration cycle begins from the bottom, working upwards and up to the pond's surface. Since the water flow begins at the bottom with the aerator, it helps break the excess organic matter which is releasing nutrients. Using Muck Pellets Aside from infusing oxygen into your pond with an aerator, you can also contemplate adding Lake and Pond Muck Pellets. These pellets are designed to help control sludge and muck that can build up in the bottom of your pond. They are good options because the pellets will sink to the bottom of the pond, which is where muck tends to form. The pellets will then begin to dissolve, helping to break down excessive nutrients. To get good results, it is recommended that you use these pellets consistently. Coupled with the aeration setup, you'll be able to rid your pond of muck in no time. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
How to Keep Your Pond Healthy in the Summer Heat
For most of the country, the summer heat has officially arrived. While this is great for planning summer vacations and family get-togethers, it’s not so great for our yards and also, our ponds. If you’ve noticed that your pond is looking a little dull and lifeless or if a foul odor is emanating from it and you aren’t using a pond aerator, it may be time to consider investing in a floating pond fountain. The summer heat and in some places, humidity, can do a number on our ponds. When the temperature rises, pond water can heat up pretty quickly, making it the perfect breeding ground for weeds and algae while making it uncomfortable for your aquatic life. Additionally, it can turn pond water stagnant resulting in a lack of oxygen for your pond and aquatic life. We may not be able to help with the heat, but we can help your pond survive the summer heatwave ensuring your pond is achieving your desired aesthetics and your fish are comfortable and thriving. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we carry industry-leading floating pond fountains as well as solar fountains that will not only help your pond survive the summer but will keep it in perfect health all year long. Here are a few reasons why you should consider investing in an outdoor floating fountain for your pond. Floating Pond Fountains Can Improve the Smell of Your Pond First, it’s important to understand how a floating pond fountain works. A floating pond fountain is a type of outdoor floating fountain that works as a pond aerator. Rather than sit at the bottom of your pond, a floating pond fountain sits on top of the water using a propeller to move high volumes of water helping to circulate oxygen. The oxygen is then absorbed by the water that is exposed to the air, releasing the gasses that have been trapped in the water. This allows your pond to “breathe” and provides the adequate amount of oxygen necessary for your aquatic life and the health of your pond. In addition to enhancing the health of your pond, some floating pond fountains can enhance the aesthetics via the visual display some of them produce. Outdoor Floating Fountains Prevent Muck Build-up Stagnant water is a breeding ground for weeds and algae. Further, any decaying plant life can turn into muck which can wreak havoc on your pond and aquatic life. A floating pond fountain as well as a floating solar pond fountain will keep your pond’s water flowing continuously, preventing the growth of various types of harmful algae and bacteria that develop under the water’s surface. Another perk of continuously flowing water? The reduction of mosquitos and other insects! There’s quite a bit to look forward to in the summer, but the summer insects are not one of them. Floating pond fountains and solar fountains will keep your water moving as well as keep those bugs away. Add Some Ambiance with a Floating Pond Fountain Not only are they great for the health of your pond, they’re great for the aesthetics as well! When it comes to floating pond fountains and floating solar pond fountains, there are a few different options to choose from that will add to the beauty of your pond. If you’re looking to add to your landscaping and the natural beauty of your pond, outdoor floating ponds are the way to go. We have a variety of pond treatment and maintenance products that will keep your pond healthy and its natural beauty intact. For more information on our products or to find out which floating pond fountain is best for your pond, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
Does My Pond Need an Aerator?
Your New Pond Investing in a new pond is exciting. Whether you move to a new home with an existing pond or you decide to build a pond from scratch, you need to think about proper aeration for it. But you may be wondering, does my pond really need aeration? In short, yes, your pond will need an aerator to achieve a clean environment for your fish and overall landscape. Caring for a pond can involve many different steps. Luckily for you, Outdoor Water Solutions is the leader in pond and lake aeration and we offer a variety of aeration systems to meet all your needs. Let’s go over some reasons why you need an aerator for your pond. Aeration for Your Fish If you have a large number of fish, you definitely need a pond aerator. The primary purpose of the aerator is to provide your pond with oxygen. Your fish need oxygen to thrive and survive the waters. When you install your aerator, it will keep your water flowing smoothly. The Aerobic Cycle and Your Pond When you infuse oxygen into your pond with an aerator, this is called the aerobic cycle. The cycle is important to keep the water moving. As the water continually flows on the surface and deep in the pond, it prevents and breaks down any excess nutrients that can contribute to algae or pond muck. Unfortunately, without proper aeration, your pond can quickly turn into dirty water that emits foul odors. Eliminates stratification which helps prevent fish kills due to pond turnover Helps prevent muck build up on the bottom by adding oxygen Helps prevent algae on the surface by reducing the nutrient load Provides a larger area for fish to live since oxygen is found throughout the water column and not just in the top 1/3 of the pond Helps eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes breed Two Types of Aeration You will find two types of aeration available on the market: surface and bottom. Surface aeration will work great for small ponds that aren’t that deep, such as 6 or 10 feet deep. Bottom diffuser aerators will work for larger ponds or those of greater depth. Although they both work differently, they have the same purpose: to aerate your pond. Takeaway If you’re not sure which type of aerator is right for your pond, it is ideal to consult a OWS professional. They’ll be able to inspect the layout and size of the pond to make a suitable recommendation. Your goal is to have an aerator that can find the right balance of oxygen levels. On the other hand, a small aerator for a big pond can have the opposite effect. Remember to contact a professional so that you can find the perfect choice. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
How Do I Maintain My Pond?
When it comes to pond maintenance, many things play a factor. Many people look at a pond and don't realize how much work and effort it takes to maintain a pond adequately. However, if you're a pond enthusiast, you know ponds need a lot of care. Each pond is unique, and you have to know what works. In this article, we'll go over five fundamentals for pond maintenance: water, habitat, community, harvesting and pond aeration. Following these steps will help give you the pond you've always wanted. Water: The life of any pond is, of course, water. If you don't have your water optimized for pond life, they will not survive. Moreover, if you don't clean your waters, your pond will start to look dirty and even develop foul odors. You can think of water on many levels, such as soft or hard water. You can even break it down into pH and alkalinity levels. Keeping your water balanced is key to proper maintenance. Make sure that you research the correct levels to have in your pond. Doing this will keep your fish happy and your pond thriving. Habitat: Whether you have largemouth bass or another type of fish in your pond, you must consider the habitat. Each species of fish can be different when it comes to their habitat. You want to add comfortable surroundings to keep your fish happy. The last thing you want is a small pond filled with too many fish. Your fish need space to grow and feed. If you add rocks and plants to your pond, keep a balance of cover and open space. The Community: When you have a community of fish in your pond, you have to consider the needs of each fish. One example is keeping largemouth bass in your pond. Since you have to feed your bass with a variety of bluegill and other forage fish, you must also remember to provide for these forage fish. When you do, they will sustain your bass as they grow. This will keep your pond thriving with fish life. Harvesting: As previously mentioned, you don't want to overcrowd your pond. You could end up disrupting your pond's pH, acidity, and alkaline levels. In addition, if your pond is overcrowded, you will see more fish waste that can contribute to dirty waters. Harvesting works by controlling the fish population in your pond. Depending on your overall goals, you will have to remove some fish from your pond. The idea is to make room for those healthy fish to grow larger. Once you've stocked your pond with fish, it takes about three years to implement your first harvesting season. Pond Aeration: Finally, aeration is probably the most crucial element for proper pond maintenance. Your fish need oxygen to survive, so installing an aeration system will help them live a long and healthy life. Any open body of water will have a natural source of aeration, such as the wind. However, proper pond aeration will help keep those waters moving at the bottom and surface of your pond. The water movement will also prevent stagnant water that could result in foul odors and pond muck. Depending on the location of your pond, aeration can be done by adding an electric pond aerator. To learn more about the benefits of pond aeration click here! At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators & solar pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our solar pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
The Importance of Pond Aeration and Muck Pellets for Ponds
We’re fully in the throes of summer with high temperatures and little to no rain in some areas. Because of this, our ponds and aquatic life are taking a hit. Whether a pond is man-made or a natural body of water, if it’s located in a hot, dry area, it needs a little extra love and care to help it and your aquatic life remain healthy. Muck pellets for ponds and solar pond aerators are some of the best ways to keep your pond in top shape as well as help it survive during the brutal summer months. If your pond has taken a beating this summer, this blog post is for you. We’re going to discuss the effects the heat can have on your pond as well as what options are available to help you maintain it. First, let’s begin with discussing what exactly muck is. Muck and The Need For Muck Pellets There are actually a few different contributing factors to the development of muck. Muck occurs when organic matter goes bad in your pond. This organic matter can be anything from animal and plant waste to dead leaves, twigs, grass clippings, and dead algae. In addition to affecting the aquatic life and aesthetics of your pond, it can also cause a strong rotten egg smell, especially in ponds that are not aerated and are in areas where water remains stagnant. One of the best ways to eliminate muck in your pond is with a beneficial pond bacteria that comes in the form of muck pellets. Muck pellets for ponds work by sinking down to the bottom of the pond and consuming organic debris, improving the water’s clarity and creating a healthier environment for your aquatic life. Regular use of muck pellets for ponds is what we recommend to keep your pond clean and healthy. Pond Aeration The most essential component to the health of a body of water such as a pond is oxygen. A simple and effective way to increase oxygen levels in a pond is through pond aeration. A solar pond aeration system is a piece of equipment that’s designed to introduce dissolved oxygen into your pond, benefiting its quality and health. There are different types of pond aerators to choose from. There are pond aerators that sit at the bottom of a pond, invisible to the naked eye, and there are floating pond aerators that not only maintain the health of your pond but also work great to add to the aesthetics of your pond. For those whose pond is not located near a power source, there are solar pond aerators that are also available as floating solar pond fountains giving you the option to enhance the aesthetics of your pond in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we carry a variety of solar pond aerators including solar fountains providing you with several options when it comes to protecting and preserving your pond. Don’t let the summer heat harm your aquatic life or take away from the beauty of your pond. For more information on maintaining the health of your pond and to learn more about our muck pellets for ponds and pond aeration products, contact us today at 866.471.1614!
How do I Pick the Right Floating Fountain?
Choosing Your Floating Fountain A floating pond fountain is a beautiful addition to any pond. However, did you know that not all floating fountains are made the same? In other words, you have to choose a floating fountain that will work for your type of pond, lake, or any other water feature. Fountains can be made to aerate your waters or can also work as a simple compliment to your pond. You’ll be able to find a range of sizes and aeration power to accommodate the layout of your pond. Aerating Fountains An aerating fountain is the first choice you can consider. These fountains work best if you’re looking to aerate a large pond properly. They are designed as high-volume fountains that create a significant force to move large areas of water. If you have a large pond that needs aeration for the surface area and deep in the waters, an aeration floating fountain is the way to go. Decorative Fountains When it comes to decorative floating fountains, they are a bit different than aerating floating fountains. These fountains would work best for smaller ponds or water features meant to complement the layout of your home. The decorative fountain won’t have the same power output to move large amounts of water in your pond. However, they are still a beautiful addition to your pond and can perfectly decorate your exterior landscape. The Layout of Your Pond Another thing you have to consider is the shape of your pond. Your main goal is to have your aeration reach all pond areas. One factor that can affect how your floating fountains aerate your pond is the shape. If you have an oval or round pond, one aerating fountain should be enough to cover the entire area of the surface water. However, you may need a couple of floating fountains if your pond is square-shaped or irregular in design. This is because the aeration needs to be spread evenly throughout the surface area of your pond. Power of Your Floating Fountain When shopping for your new floating fountain, you may run into a few differences in power. Bigger ponds could require a floating fountain with sufficient horsepower to aerate the entire pond. Remember that you also have to think about the depth of the pond. If you invest in a floating fountain that can’t reach the bottom, you will get bad bacteria and excessive nutrients in the water. Ask the Professionals If you have any questions or want to make sure that you choose the right floating fountain, you can always ask our professionals. We can help you measure your pond’s dimensions and depth to figure out exactly which type of floating fountain you need. If you invest in the right one, you’ll be able to have your pond clean and clear in no time. Finally, if you want a decorative floating fountain for your pond, you’ll also be able to browse through many great choices. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
Get Your Pond Ready for Spring Fishing
The Spring Months Now that the winter months are drawing to a close, spring is about to begin. Since winter can leave behind a trail of debris, now is an ideal time to clean your pond for your fish and the overall environment. This is the perfect time to prepare your pond for spring fishing. Pond management is key to keeping your water body balanced for your fish. It is essential to know what type of fish you have in your pond and what environment they thrive. This article will go over a few things you can do to ready your pond. Aerate Your Pond The first thing that fish need is plenty of oxygen. Without sufficient oxygen, your fish may not grow healthy and could begin to die off slowly. Moreover, proper aeration is also important to clean your pond. Stagnant water breeds flies and mosquitoes when the waters don’t circulate. With aeration, good bacteria will grow, stimulating a clean ecosystem for your fish. As a result, you won’t accumulate algae blooms, pond muck, or bad bacteria. Inspect Your Fish When you’re preparing your pond for fishing in the spring, one of the first things you have to do is inspect your fish. Since the winter months bring cold temperatures, those temps can sometimes dip into the freezing range. Depending on what type of fish you have, these temps can kill most of them. For example, if you have bass in your pond, they tend to eat threadfin shad throughout the season. However, threadfin shads are sensitive to cold temperatures and may not survive when the weather falls below 42 degrees. If you find most of your threadfin has died, you will have to clean them out of your pond. Cleaning Your Pond As previously stated, fish can’t survive freezing temperatures. If you find dead fish in your pond, it can create a dirty environment for the rest of the living fish. Although it can take about four weeks for a dead fish to complete its decaying process, the aeration and filtering in your pond should clean out any impurities. It would be better if you could fish out newly decaying fish early. You can do this with a skimmer along the shoreline of the pond. Feeding Your Fish You can also set up a proper feeding schedule for your fish. Bass, crappie, stripers, and other fish can find great protein from threadfin shad. If you plan to add a large number of fish to your pond, make sure your pond is large enough. You can also add attractors to your pond, like the Trophy Tree XL Fish Attractor Mossback. This creates a natural habitat for the rest of the fish who hunt smaller ones. In addition, the attractors work as a hiding spot for fish predators as they wait. If you’re not planning on having an aerator, fish tend to be less active. Therefore, you wouldn’t have to feed them as much. However, remember that you’re growing your fish for sport, so proper nutrition is critical and having an aeration system. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
Does My Pond Really Need to Maintain Oxygen Levels?
Maintaining Your Pond When it comes to maintaining a pond, some may wonder: Is it necessary to maintain oxygen levels? The short answer is yes. To have a beautiful pond with thriving pond life, you need to maintain healthy oxygen levels in the water. How can you do this? Let’s go over some ways you can infuse oxygen levels into your pond. One of the best ways to add oxygen to your water is with a Deep Pond Electric Aerator AerMaster Pro 5. We’ll also explore more reasons why oxygen is necessary. How to Infuse Oxygen Into Your Pond First, we’ll go over a few simple steps you can take to inject oxygen into your pond. The first thing you need is a pond aerator. The purpose of a pond aerator is to create a steady flow of oxygen in the water. This results in rippling bubbles that move across the pond, making small air waves in the water. It is ideal to invest in an aerator that can accommodate the size of your pond. In addition, your aeration system should be able to reach deep in the waters to keep the pond clean and clear. What Does It Mean for Your Fish? Fish need oxygen to survive in the water. This is even more important if you have a large pond and plan on having a large number of fish. Without proper oxygen, your fish will eventually die off in your pond. A balanced oxygen cycle will keep them alive, but it will also help them grow. Benefits to the Water Aside from keeping your fish alive and thriving, your water and overall pond environment will also benefit. The biggest benefit is getting clean and clear water from infusing oxygen into your pond. How is this possible? Well, your pond can either have an aerobic or anaerobic cycle. The anaerobic cycle creates excessive amounts of nutrients that will eventually build up into pond muck. Using a pond aerator will make the aerobic cycle that keeps the water moving while breaking down these excessive nutrients. The Results When you create an aerobic cycle in your pond, you’ll get clean water. If you don’t have an aeration setup for your pond, your waters will become stagnant, which can attract mosquitoes. You may also experience foul odors due to excessive algae and pond muck. As we’ve gone over in this article, balanced oxygen levels are necessary to maintain a healthy pond environment. At Outdoor Water Solutions, we offer a variety of pond aerators providing you with the options needed to pick the perfect pond aerator for your pond. We always enjoy working with clients on ways to improve the quality of their ponds' health so, if you have any questions or would like more information on our pond aerators, contact us at 866.471.1614 today!
Pond Cleanup After a Storm
For most of the country, winter is coming to an end. While this signifies the end of the cold weather, it also means that springtime storms are on their way if they haven’t arrived in your hometown already. If you’ve been hit by stormy weather, there’s a good possibility that your pond has taken a pretty big hit from mother nature. Fortunately, there are pond care products such as pond muck pellets that can help with the cleanup. Spring is here and summer is right around the corner, which means the friend and family get-togethers are underway. Whether it's been hit by a storm or just needs some sprucing up, keep your pond presentable with these pond cleanup tips. Eliminate the Much with Pond Muck Pellets On a regular day, pond muck is made up of organic materials that settle at the bottom of your pond, such as decaying vegetation and fish waste. This sediment can grow and develop into harmful muck that can not only kill your pond fish but also turn your body of water into a smelly and unappealing pond. When a storm with high winds hits, your pond is now subjected to other materials such as leaves, tree branches, and other loose landscape materials that can also build up if not removed efficiently. Pond muck pellets are a type of pond bacteria that break down organic matter and muck. If used properly and consistently, they can break down up to five inches of decaying matter a year! Of course, pond aeration is the best way to keep a pond healthy and clean. However, should pond aeration not be something you’re utilizing, pond muck pellets can help! At Outdoor Water Solutions, we sell top-of-the-line pond bacteria packs that are designed to keep your pond clean and functioning at optimum levels. If materials and debris have cluttered your pond after a storm, try adding pond muck pellets to it to properly breakdown and eliminate the pond muck. Pond Aeration Is Always The Way To Go Pond muck pellets are a great way to break down the organic matter that can be harmful to your pond and the aquatic life that inhabits it. However, pond aeration is the best way to keep your pond healthy, clean, and looking its best. Pond aeration is one of the most popular pond care products that we have as it introduces dissolved oxygen into your pond for its quality and health. There are different types of pond aerators, from those that also serve as floating fountains, aerators that sit at the bottom of the pond and can’t be seen, and even solar aerators that run off solar power, saving you money. At Outdoor Water Solutions, our pond care products include a variety of pond aerators that are designed to keep your pond clean and your aquatic life healthy. Our goal is to help you keep your pond in pristine condition. Whether you’re in need of pond bacteria in the form of pond muck pellets or other pond care products, we have everything you need to keep your pond in perfect condition. Check out our large variety of pond care products or contact our pond specialists with any questions you may have on proper care for your pond at 866.471.1614.