Caring for your pond properly

The weather is starting to warm up and you might be thinking about building a pond this year or thinking about how you could help control pond problems this summer. If so, then this article is for you as I have compiled a list of some of the pond management questions asked by Purdue Extension clientele.

One of the top questions asked is why do I have a lot of plant growth and algae on my pond. There are several reasons that you could experience this problem.

For starters, you probably have a high nutrient level that is a result of nutrient-loaded runoff from fields, pastures, and yards. Other possible reasons include that the water in the pond has become stagnant or the pond is too small or shallow. Ultimately, to fix this problem, you need to reduce the amount of nutrients entering your pond. You can do that by adding a filter strip. If you can’t add a filter strip, you could try utilizing an aerator to help move the water.

If you are curious about why some ponds are dark blue it is because the owner is trying to reduce plant and algae growth. By adding the blue dye to their pond frequently, they block out some of the sunlight, which ultimately reduces vegetation.

If you are interested in trying to utilize dye in your pond this year, then you should put your first application of the dye in your pond by April 15. That is the approximate date plant germination begins in Indiana. The dye will only last a short time; thus, you will need to follow the label instructions on how often to reapply.

A few individuals asked last year if they should prevent their livestock from entering their pond. Ultimately, the pond owner should make the decision, but I can tell you that livestock can be detrimental to ponds. To begin with, they can add to any nutrient problem that might already be occurring through their manure.

Even if the animals are not allowed to enter the pond, the runoff from their pasture can contribute to the nutrient problem. Additionally, as they climb in and out of the pond, their hooves can break down the shoreline causing erosion problems.

If you have fish in your pond, you might be wondering if you should feed them. Generally, feeding fish in a pond is not necessary. If you feed your fish regularly, you can actually cause nutrient problems. Ultimately, if your pond is well designed and managed properly, you should have adequate amounts of plant and animal organisms in your pond to support the fish population.

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events:

March 20 – Horticulture judges training, 9:30 a.m.-noon, Parke County Fairgrounds.

March 21 – Resistant Weed Management webinar, noon, RSVP at https://ag.purdue.edu/Extension/wia/Pages/webinars.aspx.

March 30 – Extension Office closed.

April 3 – Junior Leader 4-H meeting, Fairgrounds, 7-8 p.m.