Q: When I choose a site for my pond how much sun should it get?

A: Ponds should receive about a half day of sunlight. Too much sunlight can cause a persistent algae problem, and too little sun can prevent water plant growth.

Q: Do I need a filter for my pond?

A: If you are going to have fish it is generally a good idea to have a filtration system in place. Filters help to maintain good water clarity, and remove harmful ammonia and nitrates which accumulate due to fish wastes. If you are not planning on having fish, a filter may not be necessary, but they do make it easier to keep your water clear.

Q: What do UV sterilizers do for a pond?

A: Ultra Violet sterilizers expose your pond water to ultra violet light as the water is passed through the sterilizer, killing bacteria and algae in your water.

Q: My pond water is clear, but I have stringy or solid masses of algae on the sides and floating in my pond. What can I do to get rid of it?

A: String algae can be controlled with a magnet system, which we carry at Tall Timbers, however this will not eliminate current masses only future ones, you must first remove the existing algae by hand. Algae which is found on rocks and on liners can only be removed by scrubbing, and in reality it is better to leave this algae there. A pond looks more natural with some algae, and fish use it as a food source.

Q: When should I start and stop feeding my fish?

A: In the spring when the water temperature rises above 50 degrees Fahrenheit you should begin feeding your fish. In fall when the temperature drops below 50 degrees you should stop feeding.

Q: I have Koi, should I be feeding them any special type of food?

A: Koi can eat normal fish food, however there are special foods developed to promote color and growth in Koi, which are especially beneficial to them.

Q: Should I fertilize my water plants?

A: Yes, water plants are often kept in containers and need the added nutrients provided by fertilizers.

Q: My water lillies will not bloom, what 's wrong with them?

A: There may be any one of several problems. Not enough fertilization can result in lillies not blooming. Lillies bloom especially well when fertilized. A second common cause is placing lillies too close to moving water. Lillies prefer calm water. Try moving the lillies as far away from your waterfall or fountain as possible. Also the lillies may be too deep in the water, try placing them on some brick to bring them closer to the surface.

Q: My pond level has dropped several inches in the past couple of days, does this mean my liner has a hole in it?

A: The answer is almost always NO. Some of the most common reasons for a rapidly dropping water level are:

1. 1. Water from your waterfall is running behind or away from your liner. Make sure your liner covers your entire waterfall.
2. 2. There is a leak in your filter. Check to make sure you have tightened all of your seals and fittings properly.
3. 3. During periods of high winds, or in a very windy location, water can be blown from your waterfall or fountain out of the pond.