What Do You Need to Do When Your Pond is in The Sun?

Expert Tips on How to Care for a Pond in the Sun
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Helping Warm Water Stay Oxygenated

The warmer the water, the lower its capacity for holding oxygen. This might sound like a bunch of science mumbo jumbo, but to your fish, it’s a life or death issue. If your fish are gasping for air close to the surface or are congregating around a fountain or waterfall, oxygenation might be a problem.

Once the water temperature climbs above 80 degrees, you’ll need to be especially vigilant. The right pond design can make all the difference in helping your fish stay healthy.

Keep Water Cool and Moving

- Shade from aquatic plants and nearby landscaping can help keep water temperatures lower.

- A water depth of two feet or more helps maintain cooler temperatures — deeper water is cooler water.

- Circulation from an aeration kit or waterfall keeps water moving and oxygenated.
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Just make sure algae don’t become a problem along the way.
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Keeping Algae Under Control in Sunny Ponds

Don’t let planktonic algae deplete the oxygen in your pond. Instead, protect your fish with a healthy pond ecosystem. That means a balance of:

• Fish
• Plants
• Filtration
• Beneficial bacteria
• AerationLearn more about how to prevent algae from taking over your water feature and stealing oxygen from your fish.
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Creating a Healthy Environment for Your Sunny Pond

A little planning can go a long way in improving the health of your sunny pond — and making your outdoor space more enjoyable. At Good Earth Water Gardens, we recommend the following:

- Filtration and Circulation -

- Moving water is healthy water. Pumps keep the water flowing, mechanical filters skim debris off the surface, and biological filters provide a home for beneficial bacteria.

- Bacteria -

These tiny superheroes eat fish waste and plant matter, keeping your pond cleaner and helping reduce algae growth.

- Rock Coverage -

Add proper rock coverage at the bottom of your pond. Pebbles and stones aren’t just decorative — they provide homes for beneficial bacteria, which help keep the pond healthy.

- Shade Structures -

A pergola or other decorative shade element can enhance your outdoor experience while helping maintain the right pond temperature.

- Strategic Tree Placement -

The right trees near your koi pond can help with shade, without creating a huge mess of leaves in the fall. And yes — they grow faster than you think.

- Pond Plants -

Healthy ecosystems thrive with marginal and aquatic plants. Aim to cover one-third to one-half of the pond’s surface with plant life. Lily pads and water lettuce do well in Midwest climates. For the pond’s edges, water lilies are a top choice — especially in sunny spots, where they bloom frequently.

Making the Most of Your Sunny Pond Area

A sunny pond can still be beautiful and thriving with the right care and design. Whether you're starting fresh or want help maintaining your current setup, Good Earth Water Gardens would love to help you create or sustain a healthy, low-maintenance pond ecosystem that both you and your fish can enjoy.