Spring is a time of new life and renewal.  It’s also the perfect opportunity to spruce up your backyard koi pond! A well-maintained, attractive pond or water feature will add beauty and interest to your yard while providing an important function: keeping fish and other wildlife happy and healthy all season long. A good quality and balanced ecosystem is necessary for success. Here are seven popular products that will help you get started!

1. Beneficial Bacteria – Aquascape Beneficial Bacteria have a combination of concentrated bacteria and enzymes that act as natural cleaners to help maintain a strong biological balance in your koi pond.  These types of phots synthetic bacteria help to quickly clarify your pond’s water by clumping up finer debris eventually allowing is to settle and be captured within your pond’s filtration system.  When used on a consistent basis, this product will help provide your pond with clean, clear, and healthy water conditions.

         Liquid Beneficial Bacteria – https://amzn.to/3GnuLqS 

2. Filter Pads – If you have a biological filtration system or a skimmer box, both contain filter pads that need replaced every now and then.  The Aquascape filter mats provide 50% more surface area than most traditional filter pads.  This additional surface helps trap debris and provide a extra space when combined with beneficial bacteria can better colonize.   

         Aquascape skimmer filter pad- https://amzn.to/3aozQRJ 

         Biofalls Filter Mats – https://amzn.to/3Hw1bRy 

3. Planters & potting media – The start of spring is the perfect time to start adding and dividing your aquatic plants.  In order to keep these beautiful underwater plants from taking over your pond you will want to be sure they are in Aquatic pots.  Make sure you grab the all-natural Aquascape potting media to support the growth of all your pond plants.  

          Aquatic planter – https://amzn.to/3jKFtOv    

          Aquascape potting soil – https://amzn.to/3DkgbAf  

4. Premium Fish Food – Your fish are pets that need care just like your family cat or dog.  Keep them healthy by feeding them quality fish food.  Aquascape fish food is a floating pellet, ideal for your fish and includes multivitamins, probiotics and high-quality protein that will not break apart and cloud your pond water.  

          Aquascape Fish Food – https://amzn.to/35EzS9j 

5. Iongen & Iongen probe replacement – If you have an Aquascape iongen system installed in your pond or water feature you know it is the most effective way to kill and control algae.  The start of spring is the perfect time to check your copper iongen probe to see if it’s time for a replacement.  These probes typically last at least a year but if you see it has significant decay swapping out a new probe is easy.

          Aquascape iongen probe – https://amzn.to/3J3Ixkh 

6. Dosing System & Dosing bags – If your pond was built by our #BeeTeam than it was likely installed with an automatic dosing system to make water treatment easy and effecient.  The only thing that needs done to “set it and forget it” is to replace the dosing bags.  Most dosing bags will last at least 90 days (typically more) depending on the size of your water feature.  These variety of bags contain specially formulated water treatments that help maintain high water quality for your feature.  Your can choose from a variety of treatment options to meet your ponds needs.   

         32 Ounce Refill for Automatic Dosing System- https://amzn.to/3amqW7s 

7. Predator Control –  As the warm weather makes it’s way back sometimes so do the rest of the wildlife, some of which may be predators to your pond pets. Your fish could be vulnerable to a variety of predators.  In order to help protect your fish Aquascape provides a variety of options to help pond owners prevent predators from turning your prized fish into an afternoon snack.  These deterrents include a faux log fishcave, and some fun heron, alligator, and swan decoys.  

          Faux log – https://amzn.to/3xTCPfg 

         Aquascape Swan Decoy – https://amzn.to/3B1coXF 

         Aquascape Alligator Decoy – https://amzn.to/3GuU5eM  

         Aquascape Heron Decoy – https://amzn.to/3gpa2Is 

Building an outdoor fountain is a fairly simple process that takes just a few hours, but can make a huge difference to your yard or garden. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. A pump – You will almost certainly want one with adjustable flow, even if your fountain will stay in one place.
2. Plumbing/Tubing – This is what the water flows through to reach the actual water feature itself. You can usually find this at hardware or garden stores that have a pond section. Just make sure it’s versatile enough to fit your pump and water feature together!
3. Water basin – This is where the water for your fountain is stored along with the pump
4. A water feature – You can choose from a variety of assorted aquascape fountain features.  Slate-stacked urns, spillway bowls, and bubbling rocks are just a few of the amazing options.
5. Decorative gravel – This is what you will use to cover the basin.  The colors of these decorative rocks look amazing when wet.  
6. Plants! – If you want to add some plant life around your fountain, go ahead! Just keep in mind that plants may not grow very well with the extra mineral deposits from the running water, so you might need to clean out your reservoir more often to keep them healthy.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to put it all together! Here are seven easy steps to follow:

1. Choose your location, keep in mind you may want to place the fountain near an outlet that your pump cord can reach.
2. Mark the area for excavation and begin digging out a space to place the water basin.  You will want to compact the soil in the bottom of your hole. Once you’ve dropped the basin in the hole begin to level it to the best of your ability from side to side and back to back.  
3. Set up your water feature in the center of your basin or container, making sure it doesn’t go over the edges. Keep in mind that most fountains work best with a taller back and a shorter front, so you can view the flow.
4. Connect the plumbing and pump.  Once it’s all connected and the basin is full of water, plug in the pump in and turn it on to make sure everything fits together properly. If your water feature has an adjustable attachment or nozzle, set it to its widest setting so the water isn’t forced through too much. This will save energy and also prevent damage if something is slightly off.
5. Cut your tubing to the appropriate length, and attach it to both the pump and water feature where they meet. Make sure everything is nice and tight so there are no leaks or spills!
6. Make sure your reservoir is full of water and add some decorative gravel and plant life on and around the basin to your liking. Give everything one last check for leaks.
7. Sit back and enjoy your new fountain! You can keep the water fresh by replacing it every three months, if you choose, along with checking for leaks if you notice your pump sucking air.  

If you follow these easy steps then you too can have an outdoor fountain that is not only beautiful but also functional and reliable. If you need any help or have more questions, please feel free to reach out to our team! 

Biological filters have been around for centuries, but they’ve only recently become popular with many different types being used in various ways. The bio fall is one of these types, and it works by using bacteria to break down pollutants in the water. It can be installed on or near the surface level of the pond or submerged below the surface, depending on what you need it for-in most cases you will want it at least partially exposed so that air bubbles can help oxygenate the water as well as remove carbon dioxide through diffusion into gases more easily

What is a bio falls and what does it do?

Bio falls are a type of biological filter that helps to keep a koi pond clean and healthy. They do this by removing waste and harmful toxins from the water. Bio falls come in many different shapes and sizes, but all of them work in basically the same way-by using bacteria to break down the pollutants.

The bio falls contain bio media, which is a porous material that creates an environment for the bacteria to live and work. The bio media will come in different forms such as bio balls or bio-bricks.

The bio media also provides surface area for the bacteria to colonize and grow. However, it only provides space for a certain amount of bio media, so bio falls use a special partitioning system that divides the bio media into smaller sections. These bio partitions divide the bio media into even smaller chambers with each chamber only big enough for a few bio balls or bricks.

This method is similar to stacking objects on top of one another instead of next to each other because it increases surface area and bio media for bacteria to grow.

To increase the bio falls efficiency and effectiveness, bio falls should be added to a pump for constant circulation throughout the pond. This allows the bio falls to remove harmful toxins from all parts of the water instead of just certain areas where there is not as much flow. It also helps circulate oxygen and nutrients around the koi pond.

Benefits

Bio falls are beneficial because they help to maintain bio-stability in the koi pond which is important for keeping your fish healthy and strong. They also provide many other benefits such as reducing the amount of algae in your koi pond, keeping nitrates levels down, and keeping pH levels stable.

When bio falls are cared for properly, they can help your koi pond to be a healthier and cleaner place for fish.

Biofalls maintenance tips

When you install a bio falls, it’s important to keep the filter media clean so that the bacteria can work efficiently. You can clean the media by removing it from the bio falls and rinsing it under running water. Be sure to let it dry completely before reinstalling it.

You should also clean the bio falls itself on a regular basis. To do this, remove the lid and scrub the inside with a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and replace the lid.

The bio falls is an important part of any koi pond, and creates a favorable environment for good bacteria in your water, but you also need to practice good pond maintenance so that harmful bacteria don’t have a chance to grow in the bio falls or inside the bio media.

What is a UV Light?

A UV light, also known as ultraviolet light, is a type of light that can help fight against algae, bacteria, and other microorganisms that are found in the water. The uv lights can come in different shapes and sizes so it will be necessary to find the right uv light that will fit your pond’s needs.

UV light is not a required piece of equipment for every pond, but it can be beneficial for ponds that have problems with algae and bacteria. If you are experiencing these problems, then installing a UV light may help to clear up your water and keep your fish healthy especially if your pond is lacking proper water filtration.

Benefits of a UV Light?

There are many benefits to installing a UV light in your pond. Some of these benefits include:

– Clearer water

– Healthier fish

– Less algae and bacteria in your pond

– Longer life of pumps and filters

UV lights in a pond also allow the water to be kept in a more natural state, rather than creating an artificial environment. Fish will be healthier when they are living in a healthier environment. The water is going to remain clearer when there is less algae and bacteria growing inside the pond, which means you will spend less time cleaning it. Additionally, the pumps and filters in your pond will last longer when they are not being constantly clogged by algae and bacteria.

How does it work?

UV lights work by emitting ultraviolet radiation. This radiation helps to break down the cells of unwanted algae, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. For a UV light to be effective at cleaning algae or bacteria in water, the UV must be placed where the entire body of water will flow through the Ultraviolet radiation like a skimmer box or pressure filter. Placing a UV light in a random spot at the bottom of your pond will be ineffective at cleaning your pond. Since every pond is different in depth, shape, and size it is important to know your pond well before deciding whether or not you need a UV light and the proper size to get for your pond’s needs.

Is it worth the investment?

But is it worth the investment? That depends on a few different factors which include the effectiveness of your pond’s current filtration system. Many of the ponds we build are not installed with UV lights. This is in part because we build our ponds to be a balanced ecosystem that works together with nature to filter a clean and healthy environment for wildlife and water clarity. However, if your pond was built without the proper filtration, a UV light/filter could be an effective way to help reduce the algae or harmful bacteria in your pond.

Considerations before installing UV lights in your pond

When pond owners are considering installing UV lights, there are a few things they should take into account. One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the pond. UV lights work best on smaller ponds- if your pond is too large, the light may not be able to reach the entire body of water and thus may require a much larger UV light or multiple lights to be effective.

The size of your fish and how many fish you keep in the pond should also be considered. The UV light will help reduce and prevent organic material and bacteria that can cause cloudy water or build-up of algae, either of which will lead to a healthier habitat for your fish.

Another thing to think about is the type of algae in your pond. If you have green algae, a UV light will be effective in controlling it. However, if you have string algae, a UV light may not be as successful in getting rid of it.

UV light maintenance and care tips for pond owners

If you’re a pond owner, then you know that keeping your water clean and clear can be a challenge. A UV light can help with this, by eradicating algae, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when maintaining and caring for your UV light.

First, it’s important to regularly clean the quartz sleeve on which the light shines. You can do this by gently brushing it with a soft brush. Second, make sure to change the filter cartridge regularly; this will help keep the water clean and free of debris. Finally, be sure to keep the light covered when not in use. This will protect it from dust and other contaminants. You should be aware that UV lights will need to be replaced at least once or twice a year. The prices vary based on size so be sure you are content with the price of your UV bulbs.

Some UV systems include a timer that can allow the UV light to run for a set amount of time and shut off in order to extend the bulb’s life expectancy.

If you have any other questions or concerns, be sure to consult with your local pond store or give us a call if you have any questions about the best UV light practices.

What is a skimmer basket and what does it do

A skimmer basket is a device that is used to collect dirt, leaves, and other debris from a pond. It is usually made from clear plastic or fiberglass in order to prevent the accumulation of algae. Skimmers are important for maintaining water quality and clarity in a pond. By regularly cleaning the basket, you can ensure that your pond remains healthy and free of debris.

What can happen if you don’t have a skimmer?

Without a skimmer, you will likely have to manually vacuum the pond once every 3-4 months. This will disrupt the natural flow of your pond and cause more debris to float in. By not having a skimmer, your water will become much tougher to maintain and any debris that gets in there will have no way out other than having someone there to manually remove the debris.

The importance of regular maintenance when using a Skimmer Basket

The regular maintenance when using a skimmer basket will be able to save yourself the time and money that you would have had to spend if there were no skimmer basket. For one thing, the time spent on manually removing debris from your pond will likely take up your whole day because there is no other way for floating items to leave without human intervention. The other reason is that the water quality will become worse over time with more debris in it. Extra debris can lead to algae growth which will interfere with your ability to clean your pond if it gets too bad. By not maintaining your skimmer regularly, there will be an accumulation of organic matter at the bottom of your pond, which will create an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment that can lead to a toxic environment for your fish.

conclusion

So overall, it is very important to maintain your skimmer basket so that you can avoid having to do a lot of extra work and also keep your water quality high. A skimmer is a small part of your pond that has a big impact.

A skimmer basket is an important part of any pond filtration system and should be routinely cleaned to ensure optimal performance. Skimmers serve as a collection point for debris, dirt, and other objects that would otherwise be circulated back into your pond. If you don’t have a skimmer in place, then there’s no easy way to remove all these detrimental substances before they’re dispersed around the water of your pond, disrupting its natural ecosystem! The importance of regular maintenance can never be understated when using a Skimmer Basket – if not properly maintained it will simply become ineffective over time because material builds upon its surface. Material build-up reduces airflow which affects how well it works, so it’s important to clean it out on a regular basis.

If you’re not sure how to go about cleaning your skimmer basket, we recommend that you visit our YouTube Channel for videos on the subject or send us a message and we can walk you through the steps. However, as a general rule, you can simply remove the basket from the skimmer and give it a good clean with a brush or hose. Once you’re finished, make sure to reattach the basket and place the skimmer back in its original position. By following these simple steps, you can keep your pond looking great and your water quality high! Thanks for reading!

There are two main ways that builders have historically installed koi ponds and other water features. Either with a rubber liner or concrete being the base of the pond.  It’s a subject that has been highly debated between pond builders for years.  Each material has its pros and cons but it’s up to you which will work best in your backyard.

Pro’s of Rubber Liner

One advantage of using a rubber liner for your koi pond is that it can provide a more natural-looking pond.  The rubber liner allows a builder to fold and shape the pond to match the surrounding landscape.  Once you add boulders, rocks, and gravel you can create the illusion that your pond was created by Nature. 

Another advantage of rubber liner isn’t necessarily permanent, which could be a benefit especially if your pond has some design flaws that need to be altered.  Removing a rubber liner pond definitely is not easy but it’s much easier than moving a concrete pond.   

Although they are undoubtedly not as strong as a concrete pond, a rubber liner is still very puncture-resistant, meaning that sharp rocks or other objects won’t easily damage it. This can be important since koi ponds typically have a lot of rocks lining the bottom, and these can easily puncture a liner made of less durable material. 

Cons of Rubber Liner

One downside to using a rubber liner is that there is a greater chance that a rubber liner could move out of place and not form a durable seal, which would result in leaks. It also does have higher potential to be punctured by sharp rocks or strong tree roots. This means that if you have any rocks in your pond or near the edges, they could potentially puncture the liner and cause leaks. Additionally, rubber liners are not always as durable as concrete, so it’s possible they may not last as long. 

Pro’s of Concrete

The pros of using concrete as your liner is that it is a permanent installation. It is more expensive than rubber liners, but can have a longer life span. The seal is waterproof and will likely not leak. They are also more durable and strong, allowing them to handle sharp rocks or tree roots. You do not have to worry about the concrete moving around since it is stable enough to stay in place even with animals in your ponds like fish or turtles.

Also if you do happen to have an unfortunate leak or crack in a concrete pond, it can be much easier to find and repair the leak. 

Con’s of Concrete

One con of using concrete as your liner is that it can be heavy and difficult to install. If you are not familiar with working with concrete, it can be challenging to get the right mix and to make sure it is poured evenly.  

Concrete also does not give the natural look or feel that some people are looking for in their backyard koi pond.  Most concrete ponds do not use rocks or gravel so you miss out on the Natural shapes and colors that boulders rock can provide.

Additionally, if there are any mistakes made when installing the concrete, it can be very difficult to fix them, and if you ever need to completely remove a concrete pond….Good Luck..

In Conclusion

In the end, the choice of using a rubber liner or concrete comes down to your personal preference and what you are comfortable with. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh all the factors before deciding which one is right for you. 

In the end, the choice of using a rubber liner or concrete comes down to personal preference and what you are comfortable with. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh all the factors before deciding which one is right for you. Building a koi pond can be a fun and rewarding project, but make sure that you take your time when making this decision because there are many things to consider in order to ensure that your future pond will meet your needs. We hope our blog has helped guide some of these considerations by explaining the pros and cons of each material type.

Should I put rocks & gravel in the bottom of my koi pond?  

It’s been a long debate amongst many pond builders whether or not to rock in the bottom of a koi pond.  Both sides are typically unshakable in their opinion.  Our purpose for this blog isn’t to change any well-entrenched minds but to explain why our #BeeTeam uses rocks when building our ponds and water features.  

It’s part of a Natural Ecosystem

Rocks help with keeping the water warmer and filtering out impurities, as well as providing an additional hiding place for koi. They also help with algae control and create a natural, beautiful atmosphere.  

Rocks provide a natural way to keep the water warmer and filter out impurities, while also providing an additional hiding place for koi. They also help with algae control and create a more natural, beautiful atmosphere.  

Rocks can help keep your koi pond warmer in two ways. The first way rocks contribute to a warmer environment is by slowing the movement of water as it flows through your koi pond. The rocks will absorb the sun’s rays during the day and slowly release it back into the water at night. If rocks or gravel are exposed to direct sunlight, rocks can be used as a natural heater because of their ability to absorb heat from the sun.

The second way rocks contribute to warmer water is by providing an insulating cover for your koi pond. Rocks can act as a natural covering around the sides of your koi pond which will protect the water from colder air temperatures or wind, which can also lead to colder water.

Benefits for your Fish 

Rocks will help to keep the water clean by acting as natural filters for koi waste or leaves that find their way into your pond during fall season.

Rocks provide hiding places for koi fish while also providing additional protection against predators. Rocks give koi a space to hide in when they feel threatened. If rocks are placed in the koi pond, rocks can create additional cover for smaller koi during feeding time. Rocks provide shelter and protection by blocking the view of predators.

It just looks better

Adding rocks to a pond creates a Naturally inspired, man-made water feature.  They provide beautiful colors and enhance the look and feel of your pond and outdoor living space.

Although rocks are commonly used for koi pond landscaping, some rocks are more efficient than others.

If you’re looking for rocks that will enhance your koi pond without breaking the bank or taking up too much space, rocks like small boulders (that can be lifted by 1 person) and quarter-inch gravel are perfect options. 

Rocks are easy to find and come in so many different colors, shapes, and sizes that you will have no problem finding rocks that fit your pond space!

Tips on rock maintenance.

– The rocks do not require a lot of maintenance. They will actually thrive if they have a good place to nestle in and collect debris.

– If rocks are placed in an area that receives a lot of water, rocks should be cleaned to avoid algae growth.

– Rocks should also be washed or cleaned with a pressure washer to avoid buildup or dirt residue from the rocks when needed. 

The rocks in your koi pond can have a huge impact on the overall appearance and functionality of this natural oasis. Whether you’re looking for rocks to provide additional hiding spaces, filter water impurities, reduce algae growth, or just make everything look more beautiful – we’ve got you and your pond covered. 

What causes algae in koi ponds and how to get rid of it

Koi ponds are beautiful additions to any property. They provide a habitat for fish that can be used as another form of entertainment, and they also bring an interesting aesthetic to the yard. 

Unfortunately, algae is often found in koi ponds due to many different reasons, including the lack of sunlight or too much light which will make it grow faster than it should. 

Luckily, there are some ways you can get rid of this pesky plant without harming your fish! 

This article will walk you through four different methods for getting rid of algae in your koi pond…

What is algae and why do you need to get rid of it

Algae also goes by a variety of other names such as, pond scum, water weed, blanket weed, and duck weed. 

Algae is a plant you will find in ponds that loves to grow on rocks or any surfaces that lie below the water line. In fact pretty much anywhere where the sun is getting some horizontal light there will be algae.

Algae is a type of plant that floats on top of the water surface. It lives off the nutrients released by sunlight and other plankton which it absorbs through its very thin, hair-like tentacles. 

This can be problematic because it can block out sunlight for other plants which will die if they don’t get enough light to survive. 

Algae also gives off oxygen during photosynthesis, but under certain circumstances, algae will release toxic substances into the water that fish may mistake for food and then end up dying as a result.

Why does algae grow in ponds

Algae will grow in a pond because it absorbs the nutrients from the water. A pond with a lot of algae is usually due to too many plants and animals growing in it. 

Algae loves places where it gets a lot of sunlight, which typically happens on rocks or any surfaces below the waterline. 

 Algae can also grow in places where water gets blocked up under rocks or any other surfaces because it needs to be wet at all times.

How to remove the algae from your pond

There are four different methods to getting rid of algae from a pond: 

1) Reduce the amount of light. 

2) Use a chemical treatment to kill the algae. 

3) Use a heavy duty vacuum cleaner to suck up all the algae. 

4) Use a automatic chemical dosing system or pond ionizer

1)Reduce the amount of light in your pond. 

Algae needs lots of sunlight; if you reduce the amount of sunlight, algae will die or at least not be able to grow as much. 

If you have a pond that receives full sunlight for most of the day you may want to consider using a large patio umbrella or planting some trees to provide some shade on bright sunny days!

2)Use an algaecide. 

Algae treatments come in two different forms: chemical ones and natural ones. Chemical algaecides are very effective at killing algae, but some can be harmful to fish and plants, especially if used in large quantities. Natural algaecides use natural ingredients like barley straw extract or chlorine remover.

3)Use a heavy duty vacuum cleaner to suck up the algae . 

This is good for small ponds with not too much algae in them, but it can harm wildlife.  

4)Use a automatic chemical dosing system or pond ionizer

These are typically the most effective methods to remove algae, however, they are also the most expensive.

An automatic water chemical dosing system will have a price tag between $120 – $150.  With water chemical bags that run around $30 that typically last 1-3 months depending on the size of your pond.

A pond ionizer is extremely effective at specifically targeting string algae but it will cost you.  Aquascape pond ionizer costs $350.  The copper probe will need to be replaced every 1-3 years.  Replacements are around $100  

Both options are safe for fish and other wildlife.  

How often should you get rid of algae?

Algae will grow back if untreated. If you are having major algae problems you should get rid of the algae every week or two using the methods listed above.  

Ideally you want to find the method that is most effective for your pond and stick to that method regularly to insure your pond finds it’s natural balance in its ecosystem.

Conclusion

The best way to prevent algae growth in a koi pond is to maintain your pond. You can do this by planting aquatic plants that require low amounts of sunlight and use fertilizers that contain phosphorus.

 Keeping the pond clean is also important for eliminating surface algae as well as underwater algae.   The more organic matter you have, the more nutrients there are for algae to feed on. Cleaning a koi pond is best done in the spring or fall. 

However, even if your pond is well maintained, many times a koi pond will still have some algae growth. If this happens, don’t worry! There are several ways you can get rid of the algae so your pond will be clean and clear.

Whether you’ve been struggling with how to get rid of algae in your koi pond, or if you just want to learn more about this pesky plant and the many ways it can be removed from your backyard pond, hopefully this article has got you covered.

 We hope these methods have helped you identify which one is right for your situation! If not, let us know so we can provide additional information on how to tackle any lingering questions.

Do koi ponds or water features add value to your home?

We will explore koi ponds and water features in general before getting into the issue of their value. Is it worth spending money on a koi pond for your property? Do koi ponds have limited appeal? These are some questions that we hope to answer by the end of the article.

A Koi pond is a very popular choice for those who want to add a water feature to their home. Koi ponds are beneficial in many ways, but they have limited appeal as an investment. Their biggest draw is the look and feels of serenity that one gets from the relaxing sounds of waterfalls, sometimes all while observing koi fish glide through crystal clear waters.

Typically the primary reason homeowners install a pond or water feature is for their own personal enjoyment, not to increase their home’s value. In some cases, having a water feature might actually make your home more difficult to sell, or even devalue it.

What other features are included?

Where koi ponds are concerned, water features can add value to your home if they have certain additional features, such as outdoor lighting, patios, outdoor kitchens, or other exciting outdoor features. A koi pond with a waterfall or stream blended into the rest of a functional outdoor space could absolutely be a draw for a home buyer who enjoys spending time outdoors. This type of beautiful scene may even make the surrounding area more desirable for other buyers in the future.

Are renovations needed?

But koi ponds and waterfalls aren’t for everyone. If you have an older home in need of costly repairs or a pond is in need of renovations a koi pond might not add much value to your property at all. In fact, it may drive buyers away if they feel the cost of renovations is too expensive or beyond their budget.

Does the type of water feature matter?

Another notable factor could be the type of water feature a home has. Koi ponds typically require the most consistent maintenance which may turn off potential home buyers. However, a pondless waterfall or outdoor fountain requires significantly less maintenance. Being able to enjoy these types of tranquil water features without the cost or effort of regular maintenance could add to the appeal of a home purchase.

What’s the weather like?

The seasonal weather in the area could also play a role in the amount of enjoyment a home buyer can get out of the space. If you are selling a home in an area that has harsh winters or brutally hot summers the homeowner may not get the same enjoyment out of an outdoor water feature that someone in a milder climate would.

Ask a local home selling expert

While koi ponds and water features may add value to your home, it’s important that you don’t over-invest in something that isn’t going to be enjoyed every day or won’t appeal to everyone who views the property. Since water features have different levels of appeal, the value they add to a home varies. It’s important to understand that koi ponds may not be worth your time or money if you’re looking for a quick sale on your property. If the primary reason for building a pond or water feature is to increase the property value, be aware that it’s a risky decision as it may not give you the return you expect.

Every homebuyer has different wants from their home. In the same way, someone may prefer hardwood floors to carpet, one person may see a pond as a backyard oasis while the other only sees it as another outdoor maintenance.

Every homeowner wants to make a house their own, so for those who plan to sell in a few years, adding a water feature that may require expensive or frequent maintenance could scare buyers off.

Before spending a chunk of money on a permanent water feature, it’s best to run your plans by an experienced local real estate agent in your area as they likely have experience selling homes with a variety of features and could help you gauge your proposed water feature’s impact on your home’s marketability.

Koi or goldfish are the 2 most common and popular types of fish you will find in a backyard pond.  They both have a lot in common making them great pond pals.  Although they have a lot of similarities they also differ in many ways including size, shape, coloring, cost, and lifespan.  Understanding these differences between the two can help you decide whether koi, goldfish or a mix of both are best for your pond.      

Appearances 

For decades koi breeders have historically focused their efforts on developing beautiful color lines in their fish.  So, if you are looking to fill your pond with the most colorful fish, koi will offer you the most unique colors and patterns.  Goldfish historically are more known for their variations in body type with more unique fin types, tail lengths and eye configurations.

Size

Probably the most noticeable difference between these two full-grown fish would be their size.  An average koi will grow between 20 and 25 inches long.  Some have the potential to reach a length over 4 feet.  Full-grown goldfish are much smaller, reaching a length up to 12 inches.  

Lifespan

Both koi and goldfish reach maturity when they are between two and three years old. However, koi will live to a much higher age than a goldfish. The average lifespan of koi fish ranges from 25 to 35 years, while the span for goldfish is between 5 to 10. In both their cases, the age ranges will vary based on their habitat conditions and the nutritional balance they receive. The oldest known koi is said to have lived for 220 years, whereas the oldest known goldfish lived for 43.

Cost

Another major difference between koi and goldfish exists in their price point. The price of a koi can stretch from as little as $10 for young koi all the way upward to $20,000 depending on its variety, size, color, pattern, and lineage.  The most expensive koi ever sold went at a Japanese Auction for over 1 million dollars! You will find most goldfish typically cost less than $100.

Both Koi and goldfish are non-aggressive breeds that typically work well as pond companions.  So if you like what both breeds have to offer they will live together in your backyard pond harmoniously