3 Things to Consider Before Installing a Pond
Ponds and other water features can add a beautiful focal point to your outdoor living space. They’re relaxing, make your backyard feel more like an oasis and add moisture to the air. That last part can be a big benefit during a dry summer.
However, there are some downsides to owning a pond. Before breaking ground take these three things into consideration.
Mosquito Control
There’s one thing our technicians always warn homeowners about if they have a pond or are thinking of installing one: mosquito control. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water so if there’s a pond on your property they’re more likely to be attracted to the area.
Mosquitoes aren’t to be taken lightly. They are a nuisance that can also endanger your family by spreading disease. To avoid a mosquito infestation your pond will need to have a fountain that continuously circulates the water. You can also:
- Clear out any areas of standing water in your yard.
- Make your pond deeper than two feet – mosquito larvae prefer water that’s shallower than 24 inches.
- Treat the pond with larvicide to kill off mosquito larvae.
- Clear out vegetation around the pond to limit hiding places for mosquitoes and food for larvae.
- Use mosquito dunks to control mosquitoes without affecting other pond animals.
- Put a bat house near to pond to attract mosquito-eating mammals.
- Put mosquito-eating fish like koi and shubunkins in the pond. Mosquito fish are a great way to naturally control pests – each one can eat up to 500 mosquitoes a day.
If mosquitoes are already an issue it’s best to get the help of a professional pest control company to get a handle on the situation as quickly as possible.
Pump Replacement
Any pond owner will tell you that there’s one thing you’re sure to have to replace every 1-2 years: the pump. The pump is going 24/7 to keep water circulating. Remember, still water is the breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Keep pump replacement in mind when you’re designing and building your pond. Make sure the pump is easy to get to since you’ll definitely have to switch it out sooner rather than later.
Cleaning and Maintenance
A pond is not a “set it and forget it” feature. Ponds require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep functioning properly. At a minimum you’ll need to clean out the filter once a month. If it rains a lot or there are animals in the pond you’ll need to clean it more frequently. To make maintenance a little easier, put the pond in a spot that’s not directly under a tree or other plants that shed their leaves.
Have you already spotted mosquitoes on your property? Need to get rid of yard pests that are ruining the enjoyment of your pond? Then give Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Inc. a call. Our company has been providing custom pest control treatments in Central Alabama for more than 50 years.
Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/home-improvement/3-things-consider-installing-pond/