More Koi Is More Better, No?

Our personal belief, when it comes to ponds, is “More is better!” More fish, more food, more filtration, (because I always have too many fish and too much food) more oxygen, more plants, more flow, more, more, more. 

I know we are not alone in this belief, as this is a common problem among koi enthusiasts. We fish crazy folk  can always find one more fish that we just HAVE to have, even if our pond is bursting at the liner!

And who can resist feeding a begging koi?  Not I, that’s for sure!  feeding the fish is about 98.87% of the joy of having the pond. Those amazing and beautiful fish get to know the sound of your footsteps across the yard, and come rushing to see what tasty treat you have in hand for them today. It’s sooooo rewarding!

The challenge of this is way of thinking is, that when you keep putting in “just one more fish” and you are feeding for the gazillionth time that week, the pond can take a pretty serious hit. Your once clean and clear pond starts looking dark and murky, and growing undesirable algae, in the form of big floating clumps of green gunk, or long, green, witch hair looking strings.

How can we avoid this dark and dangerous path, you might wonder. It can be a challenge, that is a fact, but not impossible. We have already determined, you are going to add too many fish, and feed to much, so assuming the answer isn’t, reduce fish load, and feed less, and you are already doing about a ten percent weekly water change, it is time to consider upgrading your filtration. 

There are numerous ways to accomplish this.  Adding a filter can be the simplest quickest way if you have an external pump. You can easily throw an external pressurized filter, such as an Bead filter inline, with just a few quick cuts of your pvc, and adding some ball valves.  Adding a filter like this could easily get you at least a few more koi!

These types of filters don’t work well with submersible pumps, so if that is your road, you can add a waterfall filter, to boost your filtration. Who wouldn’t love another waterfall on their pond?  More oxygen, more sound, definitely more beauty. And the fish love where the water drops into the pond.  It’s a win win win!  

Maybe you love plants?  How about a regeneration filter, also known as bog filter, you really can’t go wrong there. Not only is this a very efficient filter, but you get the added bonus of a beautiful water garden. Beautiful blooms and plants all summer, very low maintenance.  Simply trim as needed, and thin the plants 2- 3 times a year, depending on variety. 

All these ways and more can help you keep your water clear and healthy, in spite of overcrowding, and over feeding.

We can help you help your pond. Call us for options to meet your specific needs. 

P.S Did you know we sell Koi and Aquatic Plants here at the Ranch? Call us for availability! 800-522-5043

P.S.S You know we have a Podcast right?!!

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