5 Common Pond Myths
9 Sep 2021 Ponds
When it comes to installing a swim pond or ecosystem pond in a backyard, many homeowners struggle to justify the investment due to a variety of widespread myths. While many tend to think of ponds and water features as a maintenance nightmare, a well-designed and properly installed pond provides a wealth of benefits with minimal hassle. As leading providers of ecosystems ponds and swim ponds for all types of homeowners, the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features knows that there are many myths surrounding pond ownership. That is why they have compiled a list of 5 common pond myths to debunk them and demonstrate the benefits of installing a pond or other water feature.
Can you put fish in a swim pond?
Debunking 5 Myths About Backyard Ponds
The following 5 myths about backyard ponds are widespread amongst homeowners, yet they are not true:
1. Maintaining a Pond Requires Constant Work
Many homeowners believe that an ecosystem pond will require extensive work, maintenance, and water testing. The truth of the matter is that a well-designed and properly installed water feature will require less maintenance than the expanse of grass it replaces. Though some maintenance is required, it often takes more work to mow, fertilize, and water your lawn.
2. You Should Never Have Algae in Your Pond
Though algae is considered unsightly by many, it is a crucial component of most ponds. Pristine, over-treated water is not natural and can be harmful to fish and plants within your pond. A small amount of algae is normal and healthy, so expect to see some of it throughout the year.
3. To Keep Fish, Ponds Must Be Deep
When adding fish to your pond, most people tend to think that the pond needs to be more than three feet deep. Pond fish (including koi) will go dormant in ponds that are only two feet deep during cold winters. A small circulating in-pond pump and some pond de-icer are all you need to keep fish in your pond.
4. Ponds Become Breeding Grounds for Mosquitos
Mosquitos often only breed in still, standing water. A well-designed pond should feature a significant amount of water movement due to waterfalls and the pump. In addition to moving water, ponds typically support fish, frogs, and other wildlife that eat mosquitos and deter them from breeding.
5. Any Contractor or Landscaper can Install a Pond
It takes a lot of experience and relevant knowledge to build a pond the right way. While a skilled landscaper may be able to build beautiful hardscapes and softscapes, they may not understand how to properly install every component of a pond. Be sure to hire a certified and experienced contractor to design and construct your water feature.
To learn more about pond ownership and water feature installation, get in touch with the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features. Their team can be reached through their online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
