The installation of a pond or water garden to your landscape will offer beauty, tranquility and enjoyment that, with proper care will last for years.

Cleaning and maintaining your pond can begin in early spring. Most pools can be emptied by pump, siphon or bucket. If your pond is filled with fish or koi, place them in a holding container with some water from the pond while cleaning is in progress.

Once your pond is emptied, gently scrub off algae build-up. The use of chemical products is not recommended, however you can purchase algae-killing products from your local fish store that can be added to the water that will not harm your fish.

After you have removed the algae build-up from the bottom and sides of your pond and you have determined that no restoration or restructuring needs to be done, rinse and refill, using your garden hose. Water conditioner or declorinator may be added if needed when you refill your pond. These may be purchased at your local fish store as well. (Follow manufacturer's directions.)

Always check to make sure you pump is in working order, in-lets are clear of debris, and filters have been cleaned or replaced. Filters should be rinsed out on a regular basis. More often if trees and shrubs surround your pond.

To help keep your water clean, remember to remove any remaining fish food 5-10 minutes after feeding. Depending on your location, you may want to avoid feeding during the winter months, a natural resting period when the fish are less active. Where winters are severe, transfer fish and tender plants indoors, cut back hardy plants and remove annual plantings. Typically, fish will live under a foot of ice as long as an air hole is kept open. Do not try this by smashing the surface, the concussion could damage or kill the fish. A floating de-icer will do the job. Wherever ice forms, put an untreated log in the pool in the winter to absorb the thrust of the ice.

Welcome any Snails, Frogs, or Turtles that come to your pond. You can also buy these. With the fish, they help control insects, and algae growth!