Keeping your water clean is the most important thing to do with your pond. The pH and the hardiness of the water also need monitored. You also need to test for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.
There is three types of filtration for your pond, mechanical, chemical, and biological. Biological filters come in three different types down flow, up flow and lateral flow. Skimmers pull water from the surface and remove things off the top.
Aeration is also important for oxygen for your fish. Some examples of aeration would be a waterfall or a fountain. Pumps can be added if you don't want these features.
One of the hardest things to beat is algae. Algae can take over your pond. Especially if it is in the direct sunlight. It can also be caused by high nitrate levels. Try adding a UV sterilizer and doing a partial water change.
New ponds are similar to new aquariums in that they take time to get established. It can be up to 6 weeks before your water is safe to add fish. You can be adding some plants during that time though.
A bottom drain for you pond is really handy. If you didn't add one you may want to consider adding one. Also and overflow pipe comes in handy when it rains or snows.
Maintaining and keeping your pond clean is critical. You need to skim all debris off the top and vacuum dirt off the bottom. If you have a bottom drain you can open it to clear out the dirt.
Backyard ponds have to be taken care of differently as the seasons change. Springtime is when you need to do the heavy duty cleaning. In the summer you need to watch the algae growth and do partial water changes. In the fall you need to remove dead leaves and plants from you pond. Winter time is when you need to be sure your pond doesn't freeze all the way over. Your fish need oxygen. You can put a cover over the top to help the freezing and catch some of the falling debris.
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