Garden Ponds for Koi Fish – Things you Need to Know

Posted on January 7, 2009
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Do you plan to install a water pond for koi fish? Having these magnificent decorative fish in your backyourd pond is very rewarding and it is not as difficult as you might think. If you do the right things koi have a long life span getting really huge – the bigger ones are of the most value. Follow these tips to plan your garden pond for fish properly so your decorative koi fish will live and make you happy for a long time.

Depth is important

Depth of your fish pond is very important. You pond should be at least 4 feet deep, however it is recommended to give your fish six or even 8 feet deep pond. This will ensure that your fish are safe from raccoons, pet kitties and other animals who can empty your pond. Deeper fish pond also helps to keep water cool in summer months

Give them sapce

Small ponds are no good for koi. Remember, with time will grow in size and numbers and they will need a big space. Also there are so many color variations of koi, that later you will probably want to buy additional fish. So it is better to create a large garden pond from the start than rebuild it later. About ten thousand gallons is a good size for a koi pond, bigger would be even better.

Provide some heating in colder months

Unlike tropical fish, koi are resistant cold; however you should never let your pond freeze all the way. Installing a proper pond heater will always keep an opening in the ice. Also keep in mind, that koi only grow when the water is warm, so with a heater your fish will grow faster

Give your fish shade

When selecting where to place your pond, make sure it is out of direct sunlight. Also keeping water plants like water lilies in your pond can be very beneficial - not only they add beauty to the overall landscape, but they also provide shade for the fish. However, you should avoid building your koi pond in aria with many trees. Cleaning a fish pond of fallen leaves is no fun.

Plan to install a bird net

There are many birds of prey that would love to steal your koi. Don’t give them the opportunity; plan your pond location so it is possible to protect it with a net.

Don’t poison your fish

When landscaping your pond keep in mind that you should not use any insecticides or herbicides so they can get into the wate. Even a small amount of common garden poison can kill your beautiful fish.

Pumps, filtration systems and other fish pond accessories

Several accessories are absolutely essential for a healthy koi pond. Ideally you will have to invest into a water pump, filtration system, pond water aerator and an ultraviolet sterilizer. If the water in your pond is still, your koi might feel unwell. Koi pond filtration systems are pricey, so as an alternative you can make your own homemade filters.

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