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Water Garden Tips



 

There are 4 key factors in maintaining a clean, clear and

healthy pond ecosystem.


 

1. The DefensePAC®:

The products included in the DefensePAC® provides


beneficial bacteria, trace minerals, and a fish and plant safe


pond cleaner. These are essential to maintain a clean, clear


and healthy ecosystem.


 

2. Fish Load:

When calculating your fish load think of it in pounds of fish


or total inches. For example, one 6” fish can weigh as much


as four 4” fish. The number of fish will affect the overall fish


load, although 10 small fish may only produce the waste of


one large fish. With this said, remember that your fish are


growing and in many cases multiplying. Always plan for the


future and be careful not to overstock your pond.


 

3. Proper Filtration:

The size and type of your filtration system will depend on


your total fish load. If your filter is not properly sized for


max potential, your fish will outgrow the filter. In most cases


filters on the market are rated for ponds containing no fish


or a minimal fish load. It is always best to get a filter that is


rated for at least 2x the water volume of your pond.


 

4. Aquatic Plants:

A simple rule of thumb is to have 60% plant coverage. This


should consist of submerged, floating and marginal plants.


Floating plants, such as Water Hyacinths, pull their nutrients


directly from the water. Rooted plants, such as water lilies


and marginal plants, create a great place for your fish to


hide from predators. Please note when aquatic plants are


not present, algae will take their place.


 

 

USEFUL FORMULAS:

Pond Size:


Length x Width = Square Feet


Gallons of Water:


Square Feet x Average Depth x 7.48 = Gallons of Water


Note: Average Depth = MAX Depth / 2


Proper Pump Size for Waterfalls:


Width of Waterfall (in feet) x 1500 GPH (gallons per hour)


@ feet of head.


Note: Head is calculated by measuring how many feet the


water will drop from the top of the waterfall to the water’s


surface. Also, add one foot of head for every 10’ tubing.