Fish and other Water Garden Life

Q. Can I use cheap goldfish or bait fish in my pond?

Of course you can, with the proper precautions. Bulk fisheries do not tend to their fish on an individual basis. As long as you quarantine your fish in a holding tank until you are certain none are going belly up or showing signs of skin problems or infections, usually a week. Also – be sure to keep them oxygenated during quarantine.

Also, remember that different breeds have different capabilities. Common goldfish are faster than fantails. If you are going to mix them in the same pond, make sure the fantails will get enough to eat (hint: they are grazers and bottom feeders).

Q. Do I need fish at all?

Fish are going to do two things for you. 1. They are going to fertilize your plants. 2. They are going to control pest insect larvae, and therefore, mosquitoes, bloodworms, etc.,etc.

Q. There are frogs in my pond and I didn’t put them in there!

If you build a pond, they will come. Amphibians breed in water. They will find the nearest water, even it it’s your pond.

Q. I’ve got snails in my pond and I didn’t put them in there!

Snails are a little different. Chances are that you have brought them in with your plants.

Q. Everyone talks about koi. Can I keep Koi in my pond?

Yes and no. Yes, of course you can, but it is likely that the koi will damage and/or uproot your plants. Additionally, Koi are large. You must insure that you have enough filtration to accommodate their waste