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Seasonal Tips for Summer - Water Gardening

A water feature is a beautiful addition to a garden and really comes into its own in the summer. The sound of water during a hot spell has an instant cooling effect on the mind and adds a whole variety of new dimensions to the garden.

  • During hot weather the oxygen levels in your pond may be depleted and this can cause stress to any wildlife or fish. If you don’t already have one install a pond pump to keep the water moving and to introduce oxygen into the water. Add oxygenating plants to the water to increase the oxygen levels.
  • Don’t be tempted to clean out newly established ponds. There is a settling in period where the water needs to gain its balance and settle. Algae growth and green water are often a part of this. If you clean out a balancing, or balanced water feature too soon, you will simply restart the cycle and have to allow the pool to go through this period all over again.
  • In summer, algae can ruin the appearance of the established garden pond. There are many ways to deal with this problem. Water plants will help to use up excess nutrients that can cause algal surges. Plants provide shade to the pond and help reduce algal growth. Ideally the pond should be shaded for 6-8 hours of daylight.
  • Avoid excessive levels of fish. 20-30cm of fish to every square metre of surface area is the ideal level. Use quality fish food, it will be quickly and easily digested and avoids wastage and nutrient build-up.
  • Remove accumulated sediment at the bottom of the pond using a pond vacuum or a suitable filter.
  • Identify whether water run-off from the garden enters your pond and causes a problem and if so prevent it from reaching the pond.
  • If the problem is getting out of hand choose a suitable algae treatment from your aquatic centre. Aquatic herbicides can be used but make sure you are absolutely sure they will not affect any plants, fish or wildlife in your pond.
  • Rectify ponds badly affected by algae by installing a filter fitted with a UV light; these are particularly suitable for ponds containing Koi carp. Remove dead leaves from water lilies and pond plants so that they do not contaminate the water.

Gardening tips for this Summer:

If you would like to refer back to the Seasonal Tips for April/May click here. 

If you would like to refer back to the Seasonal Tips for February/March click here.

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