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Oklahoma Pond Blog


Should I Put My Pond In The Sun Or The Shade?

11/6/2020

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Well... like most things in life, this is a package deal. Both sun and shade have their advantages. If properly designed and built, you can put a pond just about anywhere and have a lush, gorgeous ecosystem pond. The major factor here is as stated above: Properly Designed and Built. Below we list several factor to help in the decision making process of "should I put my pond in the sun or shade".

Where should I put my Oklahoma pond, in the sun or shade?

Oklahoma Ponds/Water Gardens can thrive in both the sun and shade.
Oklahoma Ponds/Water Gardens can thrive in both the sun and shade.
If I put my pond in the sun?
If you put your pond in the sun, you will have lots of great color from blooms! Your water lilies will thrive and smile at you in the form of gorgeous flowers. There are a lot of great sun-loving aquatic plants that will fill your pond with color given enough sunshine.
 
The downside to putting your pond in the sun is that algae also loves sunshine. So, during the time of year when the aquatic plants are not growing aggressively, you may experience more algae in the pond. Algae is simply the weed in the garden that is not temperature sensitive.
Here are a few design considerations for Oklahoma ponds in full sun:
  • Use plenty of aquatic plants that won't burn in full sun and provide shade for the fish
  • Keep your filter running and water circulating all the time to keep the water well aerated and cool
  • Fish caves built into the pond to provide protection from flying predators.  
Oklahoma Ponds/Water Gardens can thrive in both the sun and shade.
Oklahoma Ponds/Water Gardens can thrive in both the sun and shade.
If I put my pond in the shade?
If you put your pond in the shade, you will greatly decrease the potential for algae, as well as provide overhead cover against flying predators that would see the pond as a meal source. 

The downside to putting your pond in the shade is that you will have fewer colorful blooms on your water lilies and other aquatic plants. In addition, you will have fewer varieties of terrestrial plants to choose from.
  • Here are a few design considerations for Oklahoma ponds in the shade:
  • Use aquatic plants that require less sunshine to thrive, this includes water lilies
  • Keep your filter running and water circulating all the time to keep up with tree debris
  • Beware of bird poo everywhere, as the overhanging tree will be a magnet for birds of all kinds
  • Knowing that tree roots might eventually invade the pond.​​
Now you should have enough information to make an educated informed decision on where you want to put your pond. In the SUN or in the SHADE!

For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving your pond problems!

Our outdoor design center is located at 9105 NW Expressway, Yukon, OK  73099. Please feel free to stop by for more water feature inspiration.
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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Your new Oklahoma koi pond turned green!  What's up with that?

9/4/2020

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Your Oklahoma Pond Turned Green by Continental Ponds
Your Oklahoma Pond Turned Green by Continental Ponds
Your Oklahoma Pond Turned Green by Continental Ponds
Your Oklahoma pond professional, landscaper or maybe you, has just finished installing a new koi pond and you are so excited.  It's beautiful and you can't wait to relax with your favorite beverage and take in the sights and sounds of your new waterfall.  Your fish are happy and stunning, you're just elated! 
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A few days pass, your Oklahoma fish pond is doing great and you go outside one day and see something horrible.  Your newly installed koi pond isn't clear any more, not even cloudy, it's GREEN!  You can't see anything and you want to cry!  That beautiful pond is now UGLY and you can't figure out what went wrong or what to do.  What just happened? 

"New Pond Syndrome" What is it? ​

We call this phase of a new ecosystem pond or a pond that's just been cleaned out/had filtration upgrades- "NEW POND SYNDROME".  Why is it turning green though?  You have just created an ecosystem, every ecosystem needs to be established with bacteria, plants, fish etc...   Whether your Oklahoma pond is brand new or you have had some work done to it (new filters, pond cleaning, etc..) that pond needs to age and the filter needs to "seed".  In short, your Oklahoma pond is out of balance because it's brand new!  Suspended algae on the other hand just grows, and can do so much faster than it takes your pond to become balanced.  "New Pond Syndrome" is not uncommon, so don't be discouraged, but what can you do?  

​What do I do now?

There are 5 essential items we all need to have a healthy, clean, and clear ecosystem pond.  As long as you have these 5 items, your pond will balance itself out and clear itself up.  If you're missing one of the 5, it may take longer or you may need to other measures to clean your pond up.  What are these? 

5 Essential Elements 
  1. Proper Filtration:  Filter should be properly sized to your water volume and fish load
  2. Proper Pump Turnover:  Each type of filtration requires different water turnover to properly filter a pond
  3. Aquatic Plants- You should have the correct amount of aquatic plant for your pond.  (These are important!  Aquatic Plants use the same nutrients as algae, thus they can "starve" the algae) 
  4. Bacteria Treatments:   Consistent addition of beneficial bacteria
  5. Rocks and Gravel:  Allows for bacterial growth

If you have these five elements for your pond, just trust in the new system you have, it will ultimately defeat that green water and new pond syndrome.   

However, I forgot to mention, there is one more essential element to clearing your new pond.  It's so important,  but the hardest element to implement.  It's a new pond or you just had work on it, and you really want to just see a beautiful pond!  New pond owners, the most essential element is PATIENCE!!

As a rule of thumb, an Oklahoma pond, especially a new filter, can take 4-6 weeks to properly "seed" and cycle out.  That's not to say your pond will be green for that long, but as pond owners PATIENCE can many times be the best treatments for our fish ponds. 

For more information, visit our Pond Owners Handbook.

​For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving your pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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Is Sunlight Good For Your Oklahoma Pond/Water Garden Fish?

4/17/2020

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​Many new Oklahoma pond/water feature owners are concerned about the effects of sunlight for pond fish. This is an important issue, and the solution will depend on various factors. In Oklahoma ponds/water features, sunlight can be beneficial to your fish, but it can also harm them, and the outcome largely depends on the pond’s construction, location and how it is maintained.

How Sunlight Impacts Oklahoma Pond Fish

Is Sunlight Good For Your Oklahoma Pond
​When a pond is directly exposed to sunlight without shade the temperature of the water will increase. This increase in temperature will lower the amount of oxygen which is accessible to the fish, while also promoting the growth of algae. Fish which are exposed to excessive sunlight may also receive sunburn. Each pond is unique in the manner in which it will respond to the sun, and while ponds which are big and deep may not have much of an issue, the smaller ponds which are typically found in backyards may be adversely impacted.

Algae enjoy sunlight and will thrive when exposed to it. If your pond contains koi they should be exposed to no more than a few hours of sunlight per day.  Anything more than this could be problematic for them. The typical pond will receive between four and six hours of sunlight per day.

​How To Control Your Oklahoma Pond’s Sunlight Exposure

Is Sunlight Good For Your Oklahoma Pond
​The best way to manage your Oklahoma pond’s exposure to sunlight is by adding shade. Terrestrial shade can be created by adding marginal plants or trees near the side of your pond. However, during fall leaves will fall from the tree and will cause serious problems if they are allowed to accumulate in the water, so you will need to perform netting or clean them out. Papyrus or other tall plants will provide excellent shade for the fish.

Aquatic plants can also be used to help manage Oklahoma sunlight, and some of the best include water hyacinth or water lilies, which create shade beneath the water that can be used by your fish. The lilies can be planted via plant bags and or baskets and situated in advantageous locations throughout the pond. An alternative to the planting of trees could be a canopy or man made structure which will cast shade over the pond. The right canopy can also add style to the area.
​

Perhaps the easiest solution is fish shelters or caves. The shelters can be placed in the water and will allow the fish to swim beneath or within to get shade whenever they need it, while caves will also perform the same function, although constructing them may be more complex. In addition to protection from sunlight, these structures will also protect your fish from various predators.

​Too Much Shade Is Bad

​Just as too much Oklahoma sunlight is bad for fish, too much shade is equally so. The most ideal ponds are those which have some areas reserved for sunlight, while others which are reserved for shade. This will give the pond a balanced temperature which will make your fish healthy and happy.

Balance

Oklahoma ​ponds/water features need a good balance of sun and shade.  If your pond doesn't have partial shade from trees, make sure to add plenty of plants to provide shade, vitamin D and protection from predators.
More Info

​​For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving all your Oklahoma pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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What can you do to help your fish when your power goes out?

3/27/2020

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Each and every year during Oklahoma's storm season we get several calls "My power is out, what do I do." So here is what you can do for your pond fish when you lose power in. Notice I said when, not if! 

It's happened to all of us, whether we know a storm is coming or the lights just go out, we lose power sometimes.  Many times it's not a big deal because it's off for a few hours maybe 12 tops. However when the power is off for days there could be problems.  At first our attention is on our families.  We need heat and water, will I lose all my food, can't flush the toilets, can't cook.  Our first goal is to get the needs of our families met, then the secondary concerns come to mind. 

​My first secondary concern is my fish.  Unless you have a generator there is not much you can do except possibly purchase or have on hand a battery/solar powered aerator.   These can be found on the internet, they are small, but something is better than nothing.  If you don't have a generator, I would highly suggest investing in one.  The prices for these range from $10-$100.  Have it on hand and should we lose power for an extended period of time you now have a back up to get that water oxygenated, especially during the summer months.   

If you have a generator, you have it a bit easier!  This is the time you really should have an aerator.   Aerators are highly efficient means of aerating and deicing ponds, and we feel a must have if you have a pond.   

If it happens to be winter time, just make sure your deicer is unplugged should have one.  Plug the aerator into that generator and you're all set.  Aerators use very little electricity and will do the job in protecting your fish and providing oxygen and deicing during the winter months.  
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​The summer time is a bit different.  Your main goal is to get that aerator plugged in and running.  Depending on your generator and what circuits you have it running will depend on what you should do.  If the generator runs the pond outlet make sure everything else is unplugged- pumps, lighting, and any other items you have out there.  Then just plug the aerator in.   On the other hand, if the generator doesn't run the pond outlet, just get that aerator plugged into the generator or an outlet the generator is powering.   

Losing power is frustrating and stressful for you and your family.  Being prepared can lessen that stress and diminish the frustrations that come with being powerless.  
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For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving all your Oklahoma pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration. ​​
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How much does a koi pond cost in Oklahoma?

1/24/2020

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What Effects The Cost Of a Pond?

Oklahoma Ponds and water features are a beautiful addition to any home and will be where you spend the most amount of time. Make sure you pick a pond/water feature that is right for you and your space. This blog is going to walk through most of the different variables that can affect the cost of an Oklahoma koi pond and help you set realistic expectations of the total cost. 

We’ve all been to a high end restaurant that has lobster on the menu with “market price” as the cost. Since we don’t know the exact cost of the lobster, most of us opt out of it. This goes for ponds/water features too. Money and budget are already tricky to deal with, and it’s especially true when a contractor is giving you the runaround. We believe in a very open and honest process here at Continental Ponds, and pricing is no exception.  Whether you’ve got a set budget in mind, are in the beginning stages of your water feature project, or want to know the cost to build a pond, we’re here to be a transparent voice.

​
Choosing the right pond with the right options in the beginning will ensure that you get a pond that provides you with the best experience with the least amount of effort. By doing your homework and learning about the potential enhancements available for your pond before making your purchase, you will tailor a pond that is perfect for you! In the pond consumer world, many people don’t take the time to get educated prior to choosing their contractor. These  shoppers look only at the bottom line (price) to determine who is the “best fit” for their project. This can commonly lead to an unhappy ending to their pond experience. Inferior filtration leads to high maintenance or a system that just won’t work. Aesthetically, they didn’t get the “pond they were dreaming of” (ugly). I have heard countless tales of how the experience just wasn’t what they were looking for. The worst part of this story is that it actually costs you even more money to remove the bad pond before you can have someone install a great one! So from here let’s help educate you on what some options are, and how that will affect the cost of your pond.
How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost  Oklahoma Metro Area
How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City Metro
How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost  Oklahoma City Metro Area

Interaction Areas

How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City MetroInteraction Area
​The is place in the water feature that you walk up and interact with the feature. An interaction area can be a large flat stone where you and your family sit and put your feet in the water or feed the fish. A flagstone area for seating and a firepit or a set of stone steps to access the feature more easily.
​
There are a lot of ways for us to build a spot for you to interact with your pond. The more elaborately you build, the more that will affect the cost of the pond. 

Dow Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City Metro
Interaction Area

Stone Selection

Dow Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City MetroAccent Moss Boulders

If you like Moss Rock you're in luck as it is the most cost-effective stone used on our Oklahoma water features. Of course, the size of the stone affects the cost as it is purchased by weight. The larger the stone, the more involved the process is to maneuver and position that stone.

​Another thing to keep in mind is the access to the pond location. Can we get equipment in the gate/fence to the location in which the pond is being built, or do we have to hand carry the rocks in?  These are just a few things that are going to affect the cost.

Dow Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City Metro
Accent Moss Boulders

Driftwood Accents

​When adding driftwood to the feature cedar, cypress, and juniper are species of wood that will last a long time. How are you using the driftwood? Is it going to be small accents that sit on the edge of the pond or is this a huge piece of wood that is a major component of the pond? The addition of a large stump of driftwood can take half a day to maneuver and manipulate the driftwood into its final position with heavy machinery. The goal is to make the stump look like has been there a hundred years and grew out of the side of the bank. What we do artistically with the driftwood comes with a whole different price tag than a simple piece of driftwood on the side of your pond. 
How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City Metro
Driftwood Waterfalls

Fish Caves

How Much Does A Koi Pond Cost Oklahoma City MetroFish Cave

In Oklahoma, we have a ton of predatory birds; unfortunately fish are easy pick'ins if your pond does not have a fish cave. We build your pond accordingly to protect your fish, adding a fish cave will ensure your fish have a place to retreat when scared or hibernating and be protected from predators above.

​A fish cave is a structure built into the bottom of the pond to provide cover and can be built simply or elaborately as your budget allows.

1.  Starter Series Pond

Base Price For An Ecosystem Pond by Continental Ponds

This package includes the installation of a 7’x10’ pond with optimum filtration. It also includes a waterfall at the pond’s edge to give the relaxing waterfall sound while increasing aeration and overall feature health. When our team completes the base project, the home owner is ready to have the power run out to the pond-edge, install the landscaping, and spread mulch (unless these items were added on in the design process). Although you may think that the installation of a small pond is no big deal, we recommend that only the most adept DIY person attempt to install a pond. There is a large hole to sculpt just so, a filtration system to install, plumbing to run, a pump to install, and tons of stone to place (literally). I could list a thousand things on the simple nuances of getting it “just so”, but let’s just say that after 20+ years, you
still get better every time you build a pond!
This package can be $7,995 - $12,500 depending on options.

Continental Ponds base model ponds with installation starts at around $5995.00. The more complexity, upgrades, and features will affect the price. We urge that you don’t make a fast decision on your pond do your research. Don’t be fooled if it sounds too good to be true it is!

2.  Starter Series Elite Package

​This package includes the installation of an 11’x15’ pond with optimum filtration. It also includes a stream that is up to 8’ long and multiple waterfalls.  When our team is completes the base project, the home owner is ready to have the power run out to the pond-edge, install the landscaping, and spread mulch (unless these items were added on in the design process). 
This package can be $11,995 - $25,000 depending on options.

3.  Custom Koi Ponds

​Custom ponds are, well custom…They can be any size, shape, depth, etc. They are limited only by your space, budget, & imagination! We can meet your needs, either residential or commercial, for any design or purpose and can show examples of great projects around the world that we have been a part of in the past. Determining the goals for a custom project is the first part of the design process! How koi pond costs compare to other water feature types As you can probably see, the price range on koi ponds varies quite a bit since there are so many factors that determine what is required for the perfect pond for you. Everyone has different tastes, goals, and budgets when it comes to designing and building a water feature. In comparison to other types of water features, I can give some ball-park pricing ranges to help identify how much other types of features may cost.
More Info

​​For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving all your Oklahoma pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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Strategies For Preventing A Plugged Oklahoma Pond Filter

1/17/2020

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A filter is a necessity for Oklahoma ponds and water gardens, but owners aren’t supposed to clean them regularly, and yet they are susceptible to becoming plugged. How can a plugged Oklahoma pond filter be prevented?

The filter contains a large amount of bacteria which is beneficial and dissolves the toxins which are present in the water. It also houses debris and slime which over time will clog the filtration unit. While you definitely want to remove the slime, the beneficial bacteria are important and should be preserved. Here are some ways to preserve them while unplugging the filter.
Strategies For Preventing A Plugged Oklahoma Pond Filter

​Keep The Skimmer Clean

​Monitor the skimmer filter regularly and clean it out when needed. This filter component is not designed to eliminate miniscule particulates which means you can use filter media which is low density so that excessive debris is kept away from the pump. When the media is too dense plugging will occur which will restrict the flow.

​Alter The Media Densities

​The densities of the filter media should be altered and stacked so the water will flow from low to high densities. When they are mixed you will have sufficient surface area for bacteria to grow with stronger water flow and less plugging.

​Get Rid of Pond Sludge

​Sludge is not your friend and the last thing you want is it building up in the pond. A pond vacuum is a great tool for sucking up debris and it can then be broken down and removed which will improve the quality of the water while reducing the filter’s workload.

​Clear The Debris Baskets

​When the debris baskets of your skimmer filter become full of leaves and other things, you will need to remove them. Once they become full, the water will be forced to flow around them which will result in larger objects being carried along that could lead to filtration plugging.

Don’t Overdo The Layer Media

Many pond owners are excessive when it comes to using layers, but this isn’t necessary. In fact, if you have three filter mat layers or more there is a good chance you’re reducing the flow and creating space where debris can get stuck. Two layers are all that is necessary.

​Make Sure The Pond Has A Balanced Population

​You should know the plant to fish ratio of the pond. A larger quantity of fish means greater waste and an increased chance of the filter becoming clogged. More plants means greater filtration for the water. You don’t want to overwork the filter by keeping a pond that is imbalanced; so be sure to let the plants do what nature designed them to and keep your fish at reasonable quantities.

​Seed The Pond With Bacteria

​After the media pads of the filter have been hosed down, you can help the beneficial bacteria increase their population by seeding the pads with additional bacteria. They will reproduce rapidly and will assist in the decomposition of debris. By using these techniques you can prevent the filter from becoming plugged without having to clean it.
Strategies For Preventing A Plugged Oklahoma Pond Filter
For More Info

For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving your pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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How to Fight Algae During the Winter Months in Your Oklahoma Pond/Water Feature!

1/10/2020

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Winter Pond Algae Oklahoma City Metro Area
Each year we have several clients here in Oklahoma contact us about a "String Algae" bloom in their ponds/water features that occurs in the colder months. (The stringy green stuff that sometimes forms on your waterfalls, streams and rocks).  The reason for this is the unseasonably warm weather we have been having here in Central Oklahoma.  Your plants have already gone into dormancy for the winter so they are not using nutrients from the water the way they would in the springtime since the nighttime lows are still down in the mid to low 30's.  However, the water is warming enough in the daytime to cause some biological activity thus causing a nutrient increase in the water.  Since the plants are not actively using nutrients, Mother Nature is taking over and offering "String Algae" as a solution to remove the nutrients and keep your water healthy.

WARNING....... DO NOT FEED YOUR FISH!!!

Even though the air temperature may warm up and your fish seem active during the day, the average water temperature is still below 55 degrees and your fish's metabolism will not support normal feeding. ​

Winter Pond Algae Oklahoma City Metro Area


If the String Algae becomes excessive, there are some steps to control it. 

Add some Cold Water Beneficial Bacteria.  It is a more concentrated bacteria made for cold weather when regular bacteria will not colonize and filter nutrients. Remove excess leaves and debris from the pond. Dead leaves provide excess nutrients in your pond, giving algae a great source of nourishment. If the string algae isn't affecting the flow of water to your skimmer and waterfall, just pull out the excess using a fine net, a stick or your hands.

CAUTION!!! 

Do not use your bare hands to remove this algae. Even though the air temperature may be warm, your water temperature is still VERY cold. You should wear waterproof garden gloves.  

Contact Us For More Info

For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving your pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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Frogs and Toads In Oklahoma Metro Area Backyard Ponds and Water Features

1/3/2020

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What Happens to Frogs and Toads during Oklahoma Winters?

Each and every year we get numerous calls about frogs, toads and tadpoles in and around the Oklahoma metro area ponds and water features. These amphibians are loud and obnoxious early in the year when it's mating season. You know that loud squeal that makes you jump out of bed and scream at them! Just remember you have a natural ecosystem in your yard they call home, along with other wildlife. But have you ever wondered....

What is the difference between a Toad and Frog? ​

​Frogs - Smooth skin, high round bulging eyes, narrow body, longer hind legs than a Toad, takes long high jumps and must live near water.

Toads - Tough bumpy looking skin, football looking eyes, wider body than a Frog, less powerful legs, runs and takes small jumps, does not need to live by water.

​What happens to Frogs and Toads during Oklahoma Winters?

Frogs and Toads In Oklahoma Metro Area Backyard Ponds and Water Features
Aquatic frogs typically hibernate underwater. A common misconception is that they spend the winter the way aquatic turtles do, dug into the mud at the bottom of a pond or stream. In fact, hibernating frogs would suffocate if they dug into the mud for an extended period of time. A hibernating turtle's metabolism slows down so drastically that it can get by on the mud's meager oxygen supply. Hibernating aquatic frogs, however, must be near oxygen-rich water (like your pond) and spend a good portion of the winter just lying on top of the mud or only partially buried. They may even slowly swim around from time to time.

Tip: Keep an eye on your pump during the Winter months, frogs love the heat your pump produces.  It's not uncommon to find 10-20 frogs in your skimmer fighting to sit on top of your warm pump.  (see picture)

​Will Frogs freeze in my Oklahoma Pond?

​Ponds that are at least 2 ft. deep, will not freeze solid, even when winters are very cold. When amphibians become cold, they need very little oxygen and burn very little food. Frogs will appear sluggish and lethargic as body functions slow down as the temperature drops. Ice crystals form in such places as the body cavity, bladder and under the skin, but a high concentration of glucose in the frog's vital organs prevents freezing. A partially frozen frog will stop breathing, and its heart will stop beating. It will appear quite dead. But when the hibernacula warms up above freezing, the frog's frozen portions will thaw, and its heart and lungs resume activity--there really is such a thing as the living dead!

For more information and pictures about Native Oklahoma Frogs and Toads - https://www.aza.org/frogwatch-usa-oklahoma
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For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving your pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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The Benefits of EPDM Rubber Fish & Koi Safe Pond Liners for Oklahoma City & Yukon Surrounding Area Ponds, Water Gardens & Aquatic Habitats

12/27/2019

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EPDM POND LINER Oklahoma City & Yukon
EPDM POND LINER Oklahoma City & Yukon
​Underneath the beautiful foliage and active aquatic life of your Oklahoma fish or koi pond lies the product that keeps it functioning effectively, the EPDM fish safe pond liner. EPDM pond liners provide a number of benefits over standard models. Aside from being pre-cut and designed for ease of transport, they can also be used in the construction or renovation of a variety of Oklahoma ponds and water gardens.

​​How Long Will EPDM Rubber Fish & Koi Pond Liners Last?

When you buy these pond liners from a reputable brand, they can last for decades. These liners are exceptionally durable and simple to install. Additionally, they have been designed in such a way where they can handle very high temperatures. Many are designed with materials that are resistant to ultra violet light. They also tend to be thick, which means that they will be capable of holding water for many years to come.
EPDM POND LINER Oklahoma City & Yukon

​How Do EPDM Rubber Pond Liners Work?

EPDM POND LINER Oklahoma City & Yukon
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. It is a type of rubber which is synthetic, and exceptionally flexible. Many Oklahoma pond owners have become fond of it because it is easy to handle yet lasts a long time and is safe to use with water.
EPDM pond liners differ from regular pond liners in that they can be shaped in any manner desired. This means they can fit into ponds of all shapes and sizes. They will not harm fish, plants or other aquatic species. Furthermore, these types of pond liners are resistant to certain types of attacks from string algae and microbes and after installation are largely maintenance free. These liners are available in different sizes, and those who want something specific can simply choose the desired measurement when making their order.

​Unlike many pond products today, whose manufacture has been outsourced to developing countries, many EPDM pond liners and accessories are 100 percent made in the USA. This means their design quality and standards are superb. Many of these pond liners are sold with underlayment which has a strength that is high tensile. This is essentially an additional isolation layer that is placed beneath the liner. The underlayment will provide you with a long lasting and stable foundation which can be used with waterfalls, water gardens or Koi ponds.

​What You Should Look For When Purchasing An EPDM Pond Liner?

You should look for pond liners which are capable of handling temperatures extending from -40 Fahrenheit to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. They should have resistance to UV light, and should also be certified as being safe for both plants and fish. Getting an EPDM liner with an extra layer for underlayment is a plus, as it will stabilize the soil while blocking air voids from being created among the soil and liner. The liner you buy should also be resistant to punctures yet light in weight, which will allow it to be carried and transported with ease. Depending on the texture that the liner has, it might also be capable of reducing the growth of algae while simultaneously promoting the growth of healthy bacteria.

EPDM POND LINER Oklahoma City & Yukon

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​For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving all your Oklahoma pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration. 
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Adding Turtles to Oklahoma City and Surrounding Area Koi Ponds & Water Features

12/13/2019

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Red Eared Slider
Smooth Softshell Turtle
Stinkpot Turtle
Turtles can make an excellent addition to your Oklahoma backyard ecosystem koi pond.  They are quiet, happy creatures that require little maintenance or care and have an extremely long lifespan. The best type is aquatic, as they will rapidly acclimate themselves to the Oklahoma ponds and water feature environment. Below are some additional things you’ll need to know.

​Climate And Plants

​Another thing to consider when adding turtles to your Oklahoma pond is the climate and plants. Those living in the north where winters are cold might only be able to live outside during spring and summer. Unlike fish, turtles have little protection against freezing temperatures, and although they can hibernate outside, doing so can be risky. The best solution is to bring your turtles indoors until spring. Here in Oklahoma we leave our turtles out except for those few occasions we get extremely cold for an extended period of time.

Turtles can deal serious damage to your plants, especially the aquatic ones. This is because they enjoy eating them, so you have to be mindful of the type of plants you have. The best plants for turtles are water hyacinth, tape grass, fairy moss, and water lettuce.

​Turtle Necessities

​Turtles require a specific pond depth, which varies based on the species. All turtles should be given access to water that has a big surface area, as this exposes them to greater oxygen levels. Red ear slider turtles prefer deep water, while others like their water to be shallow. This is why it is essential to know the preferences of the species you intend to buy.

Ideally, the Oklahoma turtle pond should have different water levels with ledges. This would include an area which is shallow where the turtle could rest with its head sticking out of the water, logs work great for this, and a deeper spot where they can be submerge.

Since turtles have sharp claws, you will want to get a pond liner that is stronger than usual, preferably one that has additional padding or even a preformed. Turtles also need an area where they can bask, and since they like to walk on land from time to time, including a “beach” for them is highly recommended.
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How Turtles Interact With Koi Fish 

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​Fish such as koi are widely popular for backyard ponds. However, those who intend to add turtles to the same environment must exercise caution. The reason for this is because despite the slow, lethargic appearance of turtles, they are in fact outstanding hunters. They will not be intimidated by the size of koi or catfish, and might even try to nibble on them.

While most turtles will be unable to take down a large fish, the injuries they inflict could lead to infection. Smaller fish such as goldfish or guppies could be eaten entirely. Furthermore, adding turtles and fish to the same pond requires lots of space and greater attention to water cleanliness than usual. We usually do not put turtles and fish in the same pond for this reason.

​How To Contain Turtles In Oklahoma Backyard Ponds & Water Features

​The last consideration is fencing. If you already have turtles, fencing-in your Oklahoma pond or water feature will prevent most predators from getting in and keep the turtles from escaping. If your pond is not fenced in, there is greater chance wild turtles will find your pond, but know that they may only be temporary residents. Turtles love to wander and explore, and it is encouraged that you don’t overly restrict their natural freedom when it’s not necessary, such as in the case of a rescued and rehabilitating turtle.

To learn more about the different species of water turtles found in Oklahoma and how to identify them see the link below.
How to identify Oklahoma Water Turtles.
For more info contact us

​​For daily pond tips Monday thru Friday like and share our facebook page. To receive our monthly newsletter click here. Remember we are always just a click away from solving all your Oklahoma pond problems!
 
Continental Ponds is offering this pond information as a personal information source to our website visitors. Pond services are performed in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Nichols Hills, Edmond, Yukon, Shawnee, Newcastle, Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Guthrie, Jones, Chandler, Midwest City, Del City, Shawnee, Tuttle, Blanchard, Bridge Creek , Warr Acres, Woodlawn Park, Lawton. Fish and Koi Pond Maintenance and Construction, Streams and Waterfalls, and Fountains are all in our wheelhouse of talent. Explore our website for more ideas. Like our Facebook page for daily tips and inspiration.
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    Tim Trammell has been building, designing, servicing and maintaining pond in the Oklahoma City Metro area for over 20 years. His company Continental Ponds, is Oklahoma's first Master Certified Aquascape Contractor and is an national award winning pond and water feature builder.

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