Q: Do ponds require a lot of maintenance?
A: A properly installed pond with filtration and the advancements in technology has made it easier to maintain a pond compared to lawns.

Q: What is a good size for a pond?
A: 90% of original water features sold are later replaced with larger ones. Therefore, as a general rule, for an area of 180 square feet, a good size pond is 11' x 16'. The bigger the pond, the easier it actually is for the ecosystem, and less maintenance for the unused area. As for the depth of the pond, at least 2' so that fish and plants can over-winter.

Q: Are ponds breeding ground for mosquitoes?
A: A professionally installed pond maintains a flow of water of the surface reducing the likelihood for mosquitoes breeding. By adding native ornamental fish like Bluegills, Gars, and Perch in the pond will keep the mosquitoes away.

Q: How many fish should I have in the pond?
A: A general rule of thumb is to have 1" of fish for every 1 square foot of pond surface area.

Q: How many plants should I have in the pond?
A: We recommed having 30 to 50 percent of the surface covered by a good mix of plants. That is, include a lot of the marginal and oxygenates, and some lilies.

Q: What need to be done in the Winter?
A: In climates where it is freezing and you have fish in the pond, keep a hole in the ice by using a temperature controlled heater and running a small fountain pump near each other. When the air temperature falls below 10°F, the heater will help to keep the water moving.

Q: Will the fish survive during Winter?
A: Winter is not a problem for fish here in Texas, that is, as long as the top third of the water is not completely frozen. Typically, they will not survive in water temperatures of 36°F and below. In temperatures between 36 and 50 degrees, fish become semi-dormant and stay around the bottom of the pond until the water temperatures warms up. They need little or no food at this time.

Q: How do I keep the water clear?
A: Water can be kept crystal clear by mechanical and biological filtration. Mechanical filters remove debris, and biological filters control algae. By following the Aquascapes Ecosystem, the occurrence of green pond water is very rare and will clear up in a few weeks.

Q: Is algae good or bad for the pond?
A: Algae is actually a sign of a healthy pond if it only covers the surface of the rocks. However, if the algae pulls away from the rocks and the plants become stringy, then the pond needs treatment.

Q: Do you use bottom drains in your ponds?
A: No, instead we prefer the use rocks and gravel on the bottom of the pond. They provide a large amount of surface area for bacteria to grow, which breaks down any fish waste and debris that fall to the bottom of the pond. Furthermore, the use of BIOFALLS® and waterfalls create adequate aeration for the entire pond. However, bottom filtration can be beneficial to ponds of 30" x 60" or larger.

Q: What are the benefits of having rocks and gravel at the bottom of pond?
A: There are three main reasons. The first is for filtration purpose as mentioned above. The second reason is to keep the liner in place so that the water weight does not bring it down, and also protects the liner from UV damage. Lastly, for aesthetic reasons. The rocks covering the liner provide a more natural look to the pond.