 Maintaining the health of fish and plants is directly related to the quality of the water in which they live and grow. Most people assume that because their tap water is clean and clear that it is suitable for fish and plants. This is a major misconception.
Tap water is usually filled with chlorine and/or chloramines and other toxins that should be tested for prior to adding fish and plants to your pond.
Water conditions can be determined by testing for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and salt. It is also a good idea to test for nitrate and KH as well.
Most people that already have a pond understand the importance of water quality. However, new pond owners don't understand the importance and need to be educated prior to them adding fish and plant life to their ponds.
Most problems begin right from the tap. Tap water is full of disinfectants like chlorine and chloramines that are very toxic to pond life. Tap water often contains many heavy metals as well. Let's discuss the appropriate parameters for suitable fish and plant pond water.
Most people that are new to water gardening don't think about water chemistry. The best way to prevent problems is to test your pond water regularly for elements that are toxic to pond fish. These chemical imbalances in a water garden usually have no odor or visual signs until it's too late.
Another great preventative measure is to follow routine pond maintenance schedules for spring, summer and autumn. A common thread in all of these is the regular addition of beneficial bacteria.
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