How to Maintain Clear Water in Garden Ponds

A garden pond may or may not have fish to eat algae.

Clear water in a garden pond offers a neat and clean appearance to onlookers. Whether complete with a waterfall or simple watering hole for wildlife, a pond can serve multiple purposes. When the water in a pond becomes cloudy, murky or covered with algae, the beauty quickly fades. Take appropriate steps to keep the water clean and clear. Use natural methods if you have fish or other wildlife in the pond.

Things You'll Need

• Saplings
• Lilies
• Filtration system
• Pool skimmer
• Chlorine (optional)

Instructions

1. Plant saplings around the pond. Shade prevents an excess of UV rays from reaching the pond, preventing the growth of certain algae. Algae need the sunlight to grow, so shade will inhibit this factor.

2. Introduce lily pads to the pond. These members of the Nymphaeaceae family of plants grow on top of the water and assist in shading the water so it maintains clarity.

3. Install a filtration system. For small garden ponds, a filtration system can run the water through a filter and assist in keeping it clear.

4. Skim the pond with a pool skimmer. Removing surface debris before it settles to the bottom of the pond can assist in water clarity.

Tips & Warnings

• If fish or other wildlife are not present in the pond, and the owner does not wish to grow vegetation, the pond may be chlorinated to keep it clear. The chemicals are available at pool supply stores.

• When planting saplings, be aware of water, sewage and electrical lines buried in the area. Roots will seek out septic tanks and can rupture sewage or electrical lines.

References

• "Garden Ponds"; Bryan Hurst; 2004