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Most water gardens should have a spring cleaning. Cleaning the pond improves water quality and fish health.
The time and effort needed for a cleanout depends on the size and condition of the pond. Most cleanouts average 3-4 hours. Spring cleanouts start in March (as soon as I can get in the ponds) and finish by June. Cleanouts can also be scheduled during the summer or fall. The basics are described below.
- In order to minimize stress, fish are kept in up to three 100 gallon stock tanks that are filled with pond water and aerated.
- After fish and plants are moved out, the pond is drained, rinsed and debris removed using a shop vac. If needed, the pond can be power-washed.
- Filters are cleaned, pumps are checked out and then the pond is refilled with dechlorinated water so that it will be safe to return the fish.
- Plants are pruned back, fertilized and repotted when needed or requested.
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