http://www.alpinewaterfeature.com/pblog/index.php http://www.alpinewaterfeature.com/pblog/index.php?entry=entry081008-122957 With the fall season upon us here in the southwest, we would expect a slow change towards lower temperatures and lots of Santa Ana winds that will affect a water garden or pond. Around this time, I normally try to use up the rest of my summer fish food (36% protein) and begin to buy a low temperature fish food (32% protein) that is easier for the fish to digest in the coming cooler weather.

Fall leaves will be blowing, so I will prepare to get out my ‘Laguna’ pond net to help keep the bulk of debris from reaching the pond. I use 3/8” round bar (or rebar) cut to a length that when bowed over the pond, will create an 18” high at center support for the net to keep it out of the water and off of existing pond plants. Typically, each end of the rods will be bent 6” from the tips at about a 45 degree angle, then stuck into the ground about 6” outside the edge of the pond to create the bowed support. Once each end is stuck in the ground, they are normally sturdy enough to stand on their own and support the net.

At this time of year, it’s also good to make sure you add a fresh dose of beneficial bacteria for digesting the coming onslaught of debris that does make it to the pond. Beneficial bacteria such as ‘NT-Max’ should be added on a monthly basis. It is one of the cheapest, most effective ways to keep a pond in balance and free of excess algae.
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