Keeping pests away from the pond is something every pond owner needs to know. Pests can wreak havoc on a smaller body of water, but if you take some time to prepare ahead of time and stock up on supplies, you’ll be able to keep them at bay without too much stress. Pests are more likely to come after your pond in the first place because it’s so small and enclosed. But by following these simple steps and techniques, you can keep the mosquito population at bay while also keeping frogs around for natural pest control.
Use Pond Treatments
Pond treatments are an easy and effective way to prevent pests like mosquitoes (and even algae) from breeding in water. They can come in different forms (solid and liquid) and range from $15 to $50, depending on the brand and how large of a pond you intend it to work for (PondMAX, Oase and AQUAPRO have good options to choose from).
Add Plants That Repel Pests
Some plants naturally repel pests like mosquitoes, flies, gnats, snakes and more. If you have a garden near your pond, you may want to look into adding plants to keep these pests away. Some common varieties include lavender, lemongrass, citronella, and mint. You can also look into purchasing floating plants to cover the surface of the water and help keep pests away. Keep in mind that these plants double as a decorative addition and can add a lot to the aesthetics of your pond.
Install a UV Light
A UV light can be a great way to kill off certain pests that may be in the water. They’re used to help with things like algae, bacteria, microbes, and even algae spores. This can help keep the water clean and clear without needing to add more pesticides. If you’re using a UV light, you’ll want to keep it on for around 12 hours a day. It’s best to have it on during the time of day when the pond is going to be the least used. UV lights can also be used in larger bodies of water, such as swimming pools.
Install a Quality Submersible Pond Pump and Pond Filter
A quality pond pump and filter is a great way to keep your pond water clean and clear. By circulating the water and keeping the water moving, it will help prevent mosquitoes and other pests at bay. This filter will remove algae and other debris, while also helping to filter out contaminants that may be in the water. They come in all different shapes and sizes, so it’s easy to find one that works best for your pond. Water quality filters are a great investment for anyone with a small to large-sized pond. You can find these from reputable brands like PondMAX, Oase and AQUAPRO along with other pond accessories and filters.
Keep snakes away from your pond
If you live in an area where snakes are prevalent, there are a number of ways you can keep them away from your pond. As a preventative measure, opt to plant strong-smelling plants such as lemongrass near any bodies of water, such as ponds. Any other strong-smelling plants will make for good snake repellent. Be sure to also seal any small crevices or areas around your home that could potentially hide a snake (such as gaps in your decking) and keep grass cut to a short length. If you notice snakes in your area, you can use a number of techniques to keep them away from your pond, including stomping your feet, using a loud noise, or installing a fence. You can also add some cayenne pepper to the water to keep snakes away. Snakes are very sensitive to vibrations in the water, so you can use something as simple as a rake or pole to create waves in your pond. This will create enough vibrations to deter snakes without having to use anything too loud.
Ponds are a great idea in any backyard
Having a pond in your backyard is a great way to add serenity, and value to your property and make it more enjoyable to be in. The various preventative measures listed above are helpful to keep pests at bay with minimal effort to ensure that your pond remains low maintenance and enjoyable year-round. Build Your Pond has many more inspiring pond ideas to spark creativity and show you how to liven your small or large space.