Garden State Koi is here to help!
With so many self-proclaimed "experts" on the internet, it is hard to tell what information about pond building, pond maintenance, plants, koi, etc., is accurate. Below, you'll find some of the most common questions our Certified Aquascape Contractor friends hear on a daily basis across the globe. While some may disagree with our pond filtration and natural ecosystem approach to building ponds, we have thousands of "proof of concept" examples across the country where our customers enjoy a low maintenance water garden lifestyle the way Mother Nature intended it to be.
- What is an ecosystem pond and how does it work?
Ponds are ecosystems in that they serve as a biological community of interacting organisms. Your pond becomes a natural ecosystem that works with its surroundings to sustain life, all while providing you with a low maintenance paradise.
- What holds the water?
A Liner. All of our water features are self-contained and filtered. A rubber liner holds the water underneath the stone. We use 45Mil EPDM rubber.
- What type of filter do you use?
We like to work with Ecosystem Filtration. This system uses a Skimmer and a Biofalls that work with the natural cycle of nutrients in the water. If built correctly, they are low maintenance and require very little chemical treatment.
- Does the filter need to run 24/7?
Yes. When you’re working with an Ecosystem, you need keep the water moving through the filter and keep the oxygen cycle going to keep the fish healthy and the algae level down.
- What happens over the winter?
During the fall, we tent our ponds to prevent leaves and debris from building up. During the winter, we remove this netting so it doesn’t collapse, and then remove all pumps and plumbing. We do this to prevent any harm to the fish from super-cooling water and prevent any damage to pipes, plumbing or pumps from freezing. (See What happens to the fish over the winter?)
- How much does pond repair cost?
Pond repairs vary in price and can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. The cost depends on the nature, size, and complexity of your problem and the repair. Garden State Koi is committed to providing the best service, and we will present you with all possible options to repair your pond, along with cost estimates, after assessing the damage.
- How do they work?
Pondless Waterfalls offer the sights and sounds of water without the requirement of a filter or Ecosystem. There is an underground basin the holds enough water for a pump to recirculate the water through the system without drying out.
- Does a Pondless Waterfall have to run 24/7?
No, since you are not sustaining an Ecosystem, Pondless Waterfalls can be turned on & off at your leisure.
- What happens over the winter?
During the winter, we remove all pumps and plumbing to prevent any damage to pipes, plumbing, or pumps due to freezing.
- How do I get started?
Check out our portfolio to get a few ideas of what you like and then check out our pricing guide page. Then feel free to book one of our design and installation consultations.
Once you've booked your consultation, Tom Smith, owner of Garden State Koi, will give you a call to discuss the details of your project and schedule an in-person consultation so you can have your own custom quote and design.
- How much does a Water Feature Cost?
There is a very large range of cost for features. Please check out our pricing guide page HERE.
- How long does it take to install?
These projects can vary depending on the size and how elaborate they are. The average project takes 3-7 days.
- Do I need Electric?
Yes. We will need to plug in pumps, filters, and lights.
- Does GSK clean ponds?
Yes. We provide full Drain & Cleans, Education Cleanings, and Renovation Clean Ups.
- Does GSK teach about how to maintain a pond?
Yes. We offer classes in the spring and provide Education Cleanings! We also have FREE Service & Maintenance consultations, where Garden State Koi's maintenance manager Tom Sandstrom will give you a call to discuss how you can help maintain and care for your water feature.
- Does GSK provide monthly service?
Yes. Check our list of Services HERE.
- What areas does GSK serve?
Our services are available for those in the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania).
- How many fish should be in a pond?
This all depends on the size of the pond and the efficacy of the filter. With proper filtration, we suggest 1” fish per 50 gallons. For example, a 500-gallon pond can fit 10” of fish. Meaning two 5” fish, Or three 3” fish.
- Do the fish need to be fed?
Technically, no. In Ecosystem ponds fish can live off the natural biofilm. However, feeding them fish food will enhance their color, treat for diseases as well as provide pleasure for you and your family as you care for them, and even train them to eat from your hand.
- What should I be feeding the fish?
We have an in-store brand we love, but any standard koi food with good protein and wheatgerm is fine.
- What happens to the fish over the winter?
Fish actually go into a hibernated state during the winter. We suggest you stop feeding fish when the water temperatures are 50 degrees and below.
- My fish is sick, what do I do?
Bring us a water sample. Most fish health issues stem from bad water quality. If you bring us a sample and we can find the root of the issue, we can usually advise you on a treatment protocol. Please note that we are not licensed veterinarians and can only give advice, not provide a medical diagnosis.
- Can koi and goldfish live in the same pond?
Yes. Koi and goldfish are usually fine together unless there is a size difference of 6” or more.
- What kinds of plants go in a pond?
There is a rather large variety of plants that can be used in a Koi Pond or Waterfall! We recommend only buying from an aquatic nursery as many fertilizers are not safe for fish. We like to carry both hardy and tropical plants such as Water Lilies, Iris, Pickerel, Canna, Elephant Ear, Hyacinth, Water Lettuce and so much more!
- Can I add a stream/fountain/bridge to my water feature?
Any addition you make to your water feature depends on what already exists. We recommend setting up a consultation with our experts for more specific feedback of what's possible.
- How much maintenance is required to upkeep a pond or water feature?
The level of maintenance and care your water feature needs is related to the size, scope, and complexity of your water feature. Some are low maintenance and require minimal attention, while others need more. Garden State Koi also offers maintenance packages and services to ensure the health and functionality of your water feature long after installation.
