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Spring has sprung!  As the water warms, the string algae (if you had any in your pond) should start to break loose.  Don’t forget to empty that skimmer basket as often as necessary.  In fact, check it daily for the time being.  If you’re in a hurry to wave good-bye to the string algae, an application or three of barley straw extract should do the trick.  You can purchase this product at either of the Harper’s Nurseries on the east side of the Valley, and we have specific use instructions on our website under “Maintenance.”

As the water temperature rises  above 60°, you’ll notice that your fish will become more active.  You can go ahead and start feeding them commercial fish food again.  We know they have been begging for it!  You can, of course, continue to treat them to lettuce, zucchini, and melon tidbits for a healthy alternative that will keep your pond cleaner.

Spring cleanings are also upon us.  If you didn’t get on our cleaning schedule, you’ll need to do this yourself.  It’s not a Herculean task, but will take you a about half a day one weekend for a filter cleaning, depending on the plant thinning that needs to be done.  All the information is published on our website (see below).  Remember, in most cases, you will NOT need to drain and clean your pond.  In our desert environment, the most you will have to do is clean out the bottom of the biofilter with a wet-dry vac, so you can skip over some of what the manual tells you to do.  If, however, you can no longer see the rocks in the bottom of the pond because of the silt and sludge build-up, then you will need to do a complete drain and clean.

For those of you who already have your spring filter cleaning behind you, now would be a good time to go ahead and trim up any frost damaged plants.  The danger of another frost has officially passed, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.  The plants should begin their aggressive growth soon.

Now, sit back, relax, have an iced tea or margarita, and watch your paradise unfold before your very eyes!

Happy Pondering!

If you would like an owner's manual/installation guide on DVD, click HERE.

FAQ's about organic pond maintenance

Troubleshooting Tips for organic ponds.

For information on treating your pond water organically, click HERE.

For a step-by-step how-to guide on cleaning your pond, click HERE.

For Pond Gnome service fees and maintenance contract information, click HERE.

For parts for your Aquascape pond, you can visit any Ewing Irrigation, or shop on-line at AquaPro or Amazon.

To request more information, click HERE.