Chapter 3 

Underwater lights will lengthen viewing hours and enjoyment, especially in crystal clear ponds.  Of course, many pond owners work and therefore get much of their pond enjoyment after dark or when doing evening entertainment. A 12-volt system will ensure electrical safety around the pond. 

Lights should be positioned to face away from the prime pond viewing locations to avoid harsh glare. After installation, experiment with different approaches.  Angle upward for perimeter pond accenting of either plants or waterfalls, or angle down to highlight internal pond decor. 

You might be thinking that now you have the perfect environment for plants and fish. But there are some precautionary measures to be considered.  For the plats, be sure to get unfertilized plants as fertilizer will turn your water green, plus cause possible other problems!  And fish gills are very sensitive and will be burned by chlorine from city water, so be sure to first add water de-chlorinated, available at any pet store. REMEMBER; always float your fish in plastic bags, to equalize temperature before putting them into the pond. 

Next, the number of fish can be a controversial subject. There are differing opinions on this subject. It is true, actually, that fewer fish is safer and easier than too many. To do this correctly, you need to know how much water your pond holds. 

For those who will use city water to fill the pond, check your water meter record for the amount of water used. If you don't have city water, you can calculate this by taking a five gallon bucket and time it when you fill it with a garden hose. It will take about 1/2 to 1 minute to fill the bucket. That is how you can calculate how much water you have in the pond. 

Write down the time you start filling the pond and when you finish. Then write it down somewhere so you know how much water you have in your pond. 

Also, remember that about 3 to 5 inches evaporates every week.  You do not need to add de-chlorinator in the pond as long as you don't put more than 20% or more replacement water into the pond.  Chlorine evaporates quickly into the air. 

One rule of thumb when stocking your pond is, allow at least 1 inch of small fish for every 10 gallons of water and for large fish, 1 inch per 20 gallons of water.  It is recommended starting about half the maximum to allow for growth and reproduction of fish. Again there is a rule of thumb on feeding, and that is never feed more than the fish can consume in a matter of five minutes.