Spring 2023 Keeping Tips for Koi Ponds
TEST for ammonia (0), nitrite (0), PH (7-8.5), and Total alkalinity>100
Clean debris out of pond; do not scrub the sides, that green slim is loaded with beneficial bacteria and fish food.
Change about 20% water once temperature is above 50, and then continue throughout season monthly (weekly changes of 10% are another option). Use a DECHOLRINATOR such as Amquel if you are on city water. Test for chlorine. I you have well water, use Novaqua to neutralize the heavy metals and buffer the PH.
Clean filter thoroughly with pond water, don’t use chlorinated water; it will kill any bacteria that may have gone dormant for the winter.
Add Microbe lift Spring Cleaner to help break down any organics left in pond, and start Microbe lift PL additions to help get the biological activity going.
Add KoiZyme to help reduce the aeromonas and pseudomonas bacteria counts.
Once water temperature is consistently above 50 degrees, feed a good quality low protein wheat germ based food like Dainichi all season or Manda FU. Only feed what they will eat in 3-5 min, do not leave any uneaten food in pond.
Watch fish for any sores or any unusual behavior like flashing or jumping.
If there are any alarming behaviors, a microscopic look at a slime coat scraping from the ailing fish may be in order to examine for parasites. Parasites will burrow a microscopic hole in the fish and allow bacteria in, left untreated, bacteria will eventually eat away the fish flesh until death.
As water warms to above 60 degrees switch to a high quality Koi food with higher protein, stabilized vitamin C and color enhancers. We use and recommend Dainichi Premium Koi Food.