Spring pond care tips
11.3.25
Even the birdsong sounds perkier in spring. Perhaps they know something we don’t. And you can have a pond about which you feel chirpier too. Yours might’ve been a no-go area in autumn and winter pretty much, and while ‘tis the season to be brolly, with April showers and all, your pond still needs you.
We’re heading into our busiest time of year at the Aqua Contractor, but we found time to write this blog on spring pond care tips. You can find out about all our aquatic weed clearance services here.
winter shade of pale
Time to get winter gone. For this you might only need a pond net to go grab all the dead leaves and twigs and other stuff that has decided to make your pond its makeshift graveyard. Yes it will look better of course, but it likewise protects against the ultimate party pooper: sludge, as it mutters under its breath: ‘ecosystem be damned!’.
yes filter
Think of how much pumping and filtering have gone on through on those long winter days, and they didn’t have any thermals to put on. Time to show them some love by giving them a right good clean. Remove gunk and algae and keep that water clean.
A roe in the water
Your pond’s inhabitants are deeply sensitive to any changes in their environment, so it’s a great time of year to be testing the water quality. We’re talking pH, ammonia, and nitrate levels to ensure everything's in balance. You can Google what to do next should anything concerning show up.
Prune-ella scales
Aquatic plants need a spring makeover so get trimming and pruning to encourage new growth. Water lilies may have outgrown their old spot and might need dividing and repotting. Spring is of course all about the new, so you might decide to add some new plants to the mix for a splash of colour and to help keep algae at bay by competing for nutrients.
Bacteria the future
You hear this on the telly all the time in those ads for gut health foods and supplements and the same applies to your spring pond. Beneficial bacteria might be in shorter supply after the ravages of winter, and these microscopic helpers are essential for breaking down organic waste and keeping the water clean. Consider adding a bacteria starter to kickstart the biological filtration process.
Catch some rays
UV clarifier? Make sure it’s fit for purpose. These wee miracle workers zap single-celled algae that can turn your pond into a murky mess. Replace the UV bulb if it's been a while, and ensure it's all in good working order.
Fish-eye lens
You perhaps know your fish by personality and so you might instinctively know if any of them are looking a little off colour. Unsual spots, frayed fins, sluggish behaviour, smoking a pipe? If you spot anything concerning, consult with a pond professional or aquatic veterinarian.
free refill!
Winter evaporation means requires a spring pond refill. Remember to add a dechlorinator if it’s tap water. Chlorine can wreak havoc in your pond.
Algae it a go
A little algae in your spring pond is to be expected, but a bit old green broth is a no-no. A good balance of aquatic plants, maintain proper filtration, and resisting over feeding fish can all help. If algae still crashes the party, consider using pond-safe treatments or introducing algae-eating beasties to show them who’s boss.
Heron’s above
Spring can bring unwanted visitors like herons or cats looking for snack and while you can't watch your fish like a hawk, a simple net or crafting hideaways and out-of-the -way spots as sanctuaries is the way forward. Pond covers and netting protect fish and other wildlife, as does creating hidey holes with plants and decorations.
Sources:
pondexpert.co.uk
water-garden.co.uk
blagdonwateringgarden.co.uk
envii.co.uk
gardenadvice.co.uk