First Pond Questions

[Ranchu Rancher]

I just finished setting up my first pond. It is a 275gal preformed pond. I had to put it where it will receive direct sunlight. So my questions are, do I need to run the UV all the time ? When can I add plants ? I live in Milwaukee WI. The almanac says the 16th is the last chance for a freeze. And last but not least who many fish should I put in to start the bio up.

Gregg

[GlassGoldfish]

Also, don't forget a lid to protect those fishies from raccoons and such. I use 2x4 welded wire fencing, and cut to size. I only have the lid on at night or if I'm away.

I don't know about uv filters, but I would add plants now. I've had my wakins outdoors for a couple weeks now (it's cold here). Ranchus; I wait to put those out until the water stays 50 or warmer.

You have bio filtration on your pond? I would use 2/3 full size fish to get that started.

[cowiche ponder]

You can fishless cycle the pond by using household ammonia, the plain stuff. Need a test kit to measure the ammonia and look for nitrites. Cycling will be VERY slow with temps below 60. Max # of fish in there for regular comet type fish is 10 (approx 20/gallons per fish) but they have a really bad habit of multiplying! I don't know how good it is to have the faster comet type fish with the slower moving ranchu's as far as food competition. So if you used the fishless cycling the pond can warm and not waste space that you want for ranchu's on the comet type fish.

[Ranchu Rancher]

I am only putting bristol's that I got from Gary in the pond. Total of seven fish. Plan on having multiple aquatic plants so I will be unable to cover. So for this year at least no Ranchus in the pond.

Gregg

[Cincy Ranchu]

I would chuck in the plants including a lily and some anacharis. float the fish in a plastic bag. add some water from the pond to the pond weekly instead of cycling and feed sparingly until the water reaches 65F+. Nitrification cycle allowance is overly conservative in outdorr situations.

[cowiche ponder]

but it's his first pond and he only has one?

[eros]

RanchuRancher,

Did you install a bottom drain?

[Ranchu Rancher]

I did not install a bottom drain. Gary gave me an idea, I took water from tanks in my fish room and added it to the pond. This was no small feat as my fish room is in my basement. I have added plants to the pond to help.

Gregg