Must-Have Garden Pond Supplies

As a new pond keeper, the laundry list of garden pond supplies on the market can seem overwhelming. Whether you are an experienced pro or are just starting out, these are the supplies you need to have on hand.

Water Garden Pond Supplies for Set-Up

When you set up your water garden, you will need certain essential supplies. These include the filter, aerator, pump and a UV sterilizer. The filtration system is essential for any ponds containing fish. In addition to the filter, keep extra filter media on hand so you can keep it running efficiently. The pond pump and aerator help to oxygenate the water for the fish. If you have a fountain or waterfall, these can substitute for the aerator. Finally, think about investing in a UV sterilizer, which will limit algae growth. You may also want to invest in a skimmer, which will help you keep the pond cleaner, but skimmers are not necessary, more of a luxury. You can keep the pond clean without them, it just takes a little more work.

Supplies for Ponds with Fish

If your garden pond is to have fish, you will need a water chemistry kit. This will test for ammonia, nitrates, pH level and other water conditions. Test your water regularly so you can avoid possibly fatal problems. You do not necessarily need an elaborate testing kit, but you do need one.

Other must-have supplies you will need for your fish include fish food, medications and water treatment products. If you live in a climate where the water could freeze, invest in a heater as well. Always keep a dechlorinator on hand if you will use tap water to fill the pond, as the chlorine in tap water is very poisonous to fish.

Maintenance Supplies

Once your pond is up and running, you will need some specific garden pond supplies to help keep it running efficiently. Invest in a pond net, even if you do not have fish. These allow you to catch any living animals in the pond, remove large debris such as leaves or rubbish that blow into the pond and even move potted plants.

A pond vacuum is another good idea. These work with your garden hose and pick up mulm and small items that have sunk to the bottom of the pond. If you will use a pond vacuum, purchase a dechlorinator, and add it to the water when using the vacuum, as the use will add tap water (which has chlorine in it) to the pond.

Miscellaneous Supplies

If you live in an area where mosquitoes are a problem and your pond will not contain fish, invest in mosquito control supplies. In a fish pond, the fish will usually eat the mosquito larvae before they grow into adults. If you live in an area where predators, such as cats or herons can be a problem, consider investing in predator control or protection if you have fish in your pond. An underwater shelter is ideal to provide fish for a place to hide from predators without cluttering up the look of your beautiful garden.

Remember, when buying garden pond supplies, your goal is to choose things that will make your job as a pond keeper easier, all while adding to the overall look and ambiance of your pond.