14 Steps to get your Pond Started in the Spring
1. Remove de-icing mechanism. Clean de-icer before storage, using white vinegar to remove any scale.
2. Clean out debris/leaves in the pond using a Skimmer net.
3. Introduce a sludge eating bacteria as a natural process of vacuuming the bottom. Pond Zyme / Sludge Away
4. Reinstall filter, Clean pads and inspect vital parts. Do you need new pads & gaskets? Add Microbe-lift Gel to clean pads and Microbe-lift Spring once the filter is Started up. Check for cracks in filter vessel. Check hose connections.
5. Reinstall Pump:
Check for frayed wires.
Clean intake & output
6. Reinstall UVC. Replace UVC bulb. (Life expectancy of UVC bulbs are about 9 months). If applicable, clean quartz sleeve.
7. Check pond lighting for bulb replacements.
8. If a pond aerator is present, the aerator filter must be cleaned to protect motor from over-heating.
9. Test your pond water parameters using a water test kit. This is a very important step, problems can be targeted before escallating especially if there are fish present.
10. If you need to add water to the pond, be sure to add a chlorine neutralizer.
11. If fish are present, inspect their mouths, gills, tail & fins for any problems. Adding pond Salt is highly recommended with fish. (See Fish health flyer).
Fish should not be fed until water Temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 week straight. A water thermometer should be placed in the pond to monitor the water temperature. Then start feeding with “wheat germ “ food.
13. Place aquatic plants in their seasonal spots:
Marginals in shallow areas.
Lilies 14”-16” deep.
Divide any plants using aquatic soil.
Fertilize existing plants using aquatic plant tabs or liquid plant food.
14. Add Barley bales to keep algae under control for the season.