Hennessy Landscaping 614-870-5296

Like your car, your pond needs regular maintenance. Here’s what to do this spring to ensure long-term enjoyment of your water feature.

·         Check your skimmer once per week

·         Empty the skimmer net of large debris

·         Remove the filter mats and clean off with a hose

The waterfall box also needs cleaning once per year, either in the spring or the fall. Use a hose to spray and clean the filter mats and lava rock. Store in the waterfall box.

Remember: don’t clean the waterfall box in the summer, as you will destroy the beneficial bacteria in the lava rocks and filter mats.

For the spring cleanout of your pond:

·         Drain one half or all of the water, depending on how well you want to clean your pond

·         Put your fish in a separate container with some existing pond water

·         Power wash the liner and rocks. A garden hose also works

·         Reset stones and lighting

·         Clean out filtrations and waterfall boxes

·         Install pump

·         Add fish and plants

·         Add beneficial bacteria according to the directions

Finally, check your water level once per week. The ideal level is about one inch below the skimmer box hole to allow the skimmer box to accept larger debris in the net for disposal. Expect to lose some water due to waterfall splash and evaporation. However, if you lose more than three inches of water in a 24-hour period for three consecutive days, you have a leak.