Things You'll Need:
- Thermometer
- Submersible heater
- Nitrate and ammonia test strips
- Small shrubs for shade
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Step 1
Check the temperature of your pond, and compare it to the needs of the fish species you are keeping. Fish often hide to seek warm pockets in water gardens. If the temperature of the pond is within five degrees of the minimum acceptable temperature for the species, install a submersible heater. The fish are likely to become more active in warm water.
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Step 2
Examine the fish carefully for signs of disease, and treat the condition accordingly. White spots, flukes, lost scales, damaged fins and bulging eyes are the most common signs of disease in pond fish and aquarium fish. If you believe your fish are sick, use an appropriate treatment (available at most pet stores) for the condition. To prevent illnesses, always quarantine new fish before adding them to the pond.
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Step 3
Test the levels of nitrate and ammonia in your pond--fishkeepers usually carry out this task at least once per week. Nitrate levels should remain below 50 parts per million (ppm) at all times, and there should be no detectable ammonia in the water. A manual water change might be necessary to eliminate the buildup of these toxins, which can cause fish to become sluggish.
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Step 4
Keep your fish happy. It might seem laughable that a fish could become depressed, but many pond fish will hide or refuse to eat if they are kept in poor conditions. Overcrowding, poor water chemistry, loneliness and lack of stimulation will cause fish to become inactive and sulky. If you keep schooling fish, be sure that the group is large enough to meet the minimum needs of the species.
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Step 5
Plant shade plants, such as low-growing shrubs, around the perimeter of the pond. Fish that crave shady areas might find these to be as satisfying as aquatic plants and rocks. If the fish have been harassed by cats, herons or other predators, they might be comforted by the presence of shade.
