While some types of aquatic life thrive in full sun, most of them need a little dappled sunlight. However, too much sunlight can deplete a pond’s oxygen content, making it less healthy. If you want your pond to look its best, you should avoid excessive sun exposure. Instead, try to place it in a shady area or one that has partial shade.
Algae Thrives in a Shady Pond
If you are worried about pond algae, you can choose a shady pond location. Ponds located in shady areas tend to be cooler than those in full sun, which helps to increase oxygen levels in the water. A shallow pond with some shade can still be stocked with fish and plants. The increased oxygen in the water will benefit the plants.
To control the growth of algae, consider adding marginal plants to your pond. These plants will provide shade on the pond surface and compete for nutrients with algae. Some of the most popular marginal pond plants include bloody dock, aquatic mint, corkscrew rush, and canna lily. These plants will also help clear the water. You should also avoid overfeeding your fish. Uneaten fish food and plant foliage will decay and release nutrients that algae can use.
Although algae growth in a shady pond is significantly less than that in a full-sun pond, it’s possible for a shady trough to grow. A shady pond can still suffer from algae overgrowth if the water circulation is inadequate and there are no water quality additives. A shady pond can still benefit from a shady trough, but it’s unlikely to prevent a full outbreak.
For a shady pond in a sunny location, you can add shade by planting trees and marginal plants in the pond. If possible, add dwarf cattail to the west or south side of the pond. These plants will provide good shade for fish. In addition to shade, the water lilies will provide good oxygenation to the water.
Too Much Sunlight Depletes a Pond of Oxygen
A summer pond has sufficient oxygen levels in the top six to ten feet of water, and the deeper water lacks this essential element. The density of water separates this layer from the colder one, which is associated with the bottom. The thin layer where these two areas meet is known as a thermocline. When too much sunlight enters the water, the oxygen content decreases, and algae and submerged plants begin to deplete the water of oxygen.
To determine if your pond is depleted of oxygen, look for gasping fish. As a rule, the first sign of oxygen depletion is fish that are gasping for air. The presence of gasping fish, and a lack of pellet feed can indicate low oxygen levels. If you see these signs, it’s time to address the problem. A proper fertilization program can help maintain an algal bloom and keep the water clear.
Partially oxygen depletion is easy to recognize, with fish hanging near the surface. In a fish-fed pond, this can also mean the fish have lost their appetite. A lethal oxygen depletion will begin with similar symptoms. The fish will gather at the surface of the water, gulping for air. If disturbed, they may dive, but will generally ignore most disturbances as conditions worsen.
Stratification occurs when layers of surface water are too hot. The resulting mix causes the dissolved oxygen concentration to drop below the threshold level required for life in a pond. Turnover occurs when the surface water is rapidly cooled to its deep water temperature. Cold wind or rain also cause a turnover, and this cooling will deplete a pond’s oxygen levels. If the water is too cold, algae will grow in the resulting stagnant surface water.
The best way to combat oxygen depletion in a pond is to aerate the water. Aeration is essential in preventing anoxia and hypoxia. By bringing the water into contact with air, you can prevent algae and other organic matter from growing in your pond. It’s also possible to monitor bloom density using a Secchi disk, which is a flat disc 25 cm in diameter painted white on opposing quadrants.
Fish Shelters and Caves Protect Fish From Predators
Many backyard ponds are a perfect buffet for predators. A fish shelter or cave can protect your pond fish from the harsh elements. Many fish from cold climates hang out at the bottom of the pond, while others hibernate. A fish shelter or cave can increase the chances of your pond fish surviving the winter. Here are some tips on building a fish shelter or cave:
o Create a hidden, dark, and heavy fish habitat. Use plants and fish shelters to hide them from predators. You can also use a variety of predator-deterring products, such as the ultrasonic animal repellent Yard Gard. Scare Crow is another motion-activated sprinkler that deters predators. Another option is nets to cover the pond surface.
o Install submerged shade structures. These structures provide shelter for your fish without casting shadow on the surface of your pond or the surrounding area. This allows the sunlight to reach the plants in the water. Stones or concrete blocks can be placed in these structures. The fish can hide in the structure. It is a great way to protect your pond fish from predators and still enjoy the sun.
o Add a fish shelter. These shelters are easy to install and are great for fish that do not like the full sun. You can also add fish caves with carefully placed rocks. Although they provide protection from predators, you should also be sure that the shelter does not overshadow the rest of your pond. The pond should still receive ample sunlight. After all, it is what brings koi color and helps grow plants.
Aquatic Plants That Thrive in Full Sun
In addition to their stunning beauty, aquatic plants also provide beneficial ecosystem services. In addition to offering excellent habitat for fish, these plants help the water remain oxygenated. The following list contains some of the most common aquatic plants. These plants thrive in most types of water environments. These species can be found in lakes, rivers, bogs, and garden ponds. Many of them are also used as fish food and for oxygenation.
The common Salvinia, or mini water velvet, is one of the most commonly grown water plants. It forms dense mats on the water’s surface and can become invasive if not properly controlled. While water lettuce is an attractive ornamental plant, it should be thinned once or twice a year to control its spread. Make sure that the leaves of mature plants dry before planting. Otherwise, the water droplets can rot the foliage.
If you have a large space and want to make the most of it, you can plant submersible aquatic plants. These types of plants grow under the water and will float to the surface if the water is too shallow. These plants have a natural ability to filter the water, so they can benefit your aquarium’s ecosystem. For example, you can grow coontail, which grows in USDA zones four through 10 and is a great oxygenator. Additionally, it will help control algae and other plants in your water.
Iris: Iris are another popular aquatic plant. These flowers bloom early in spring and are one of the first plants to blossom. There are thousands of species of iris, including semi-aquatic irises. The blue flag iris is a native of Louisiana. They grow up to 4 feet and have beautiful large flowers in shades of blue or purple. They are not suitable for dry soil.
Frogbit: Smooth frogbit, also known as South American spongeplant, is an aquatic plant that is native to Central and South America and grows in tropical freshwater habitats. It was originally cultivated as an ornamental pond plant in North America. However, it accidentally escaped control and found its way into canals and irrigation systems. Fortunately, it is now a more manageable species. However, some plants are still best in a shady area.