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​Spring is just around the corner, and that means wonderful changes for your Waukesha County pond! As the weather warms up, you might notice your fish starting to get more active, and perhaps some vibrant plant growth is beginning to peek through the surface. Understanding this seasonal shift from winter to spring is key to keeping your pond healthy and thriving.
 
If you’re gearing up for a little pond cleaning—whether you’re diving in yourself or enlisting the help of a pond contractor—don't fret if you see a bit of new algae popping up afterward. This is completely normal as your pond finds its balance during this transitional period.

Now, let’s talk about some easy steps you can take to keep your pond in tip-top shape. While beneficial bacteria and aquatic plants typically kick into gear when the water temperature hits 50°F, there are still a few proactive measures you can implement for a low-maintenance pond.
 
Nourishing Your Plants
As your aquatic plants start to grow, they’ll absorb those pesky nutrients floating around in your pond, which will help keep algae at bay. Until they kick into high gear, those nutrients can just sit there doing nothing, but as plants gain momentum, they out-compete algae for food. This clearing effect not only helps with visibility but also cools the water by providing shade, especially from lovely water lilies.
 
Supercharge with Bacteria
Just like the plants, beneficial bacteria also prefer warmer waters for optimal growth. You can help give your pond a head start this spring by adding cold-water beneficial bacteria. To create a comfy home for these little helpers, consider adding rocks and gravel to provide ample surface area for them to thrive. Utilizing a biological filter with plenty of filtering media can further enhance conditions for bacteria growth.

​Fish Dynamics
As the pond warms, you’ll notice your fish becoming more lively, which might make you eager to feed them. However, until the water temperature stabilizes at 50°F, it’s best to hold off on the feeding. At cooler temps, their metabolism is slowed, and they won't be able to digest food properly. If they can’t digest the food, it could lead to health issues. Once temperatures are right, start with small amounts of high-quality fish food designed for cooler water. Once it warms above 60°F, you can switch back to their regular diet.
 
Patience is Key
Lastly, remember that patience is crucial during this transition. If you’ve got a good number of plants in your pond, the right temp, and are adding beneficial bacteria, you’ll soon see your pond finding its perfect balance.
It’s worth noting that algae thrive in cooler water temperatures, but the magic number for your pond’s ecosystem is 50°F. Once the water consistently reaches this temperature, your beneficial bacteria and plants spring into action, effectively competing with algae for the nutrients that could lead to unwanted blooms.
 
Spring is a beautiful time for your pond, and with a little care and attention, you can enjoy a thriving aquatic ecosystem all season long! Happy pond keeping!