the HOMES MARKET

Airdrie’s

Realtors

Don Leard (403.807.7205)

Malcolm MacKenzie (403.660.8242)

Brandy Cowan REALTOR

403-993-4441 brandycowan@thehomefront.ca www.AlanTennantTeam.com

Matt Carre REALTOR

403-771-3398 matt@thehomefront.ca www.AlanTennantTeam.com

Alan Tennant REALTOR

403-948-1411 alan@thehomefront.ca www.AlanTennantTeam.com office: 403-948-4111 cell: 402-519-5325 showhome: 403-948-4635 n-harris@telus.net

Pond plants are expensive so choose varieties that are hardy in this area. Pond plant fertilizer can be used and is safe for fish.

Three generations of common goldfish (shubunkins and comets) inhabit this pond year round. In summer, they control the mosquito larvae, add colour and interest to the pond and, if the conditions are right, reproduce. Pond fish need a place to feel safe and hide, so the addition of plants and a few large rocks, bricks or cinderblocks is recommended.

In winter, Staples uses a thermostatically controlled stock heater to keep the water just above freezing, submerges the plants to the lowest level and covers the entire pond and waterfall with a tarp. A pump and inpond filter keep water running and aerated 365 days a year. “Plants start to grow under the tarp,” says Staples. “It’s lush, green and well-started by the time we uncover it.” Fish are dormant in the cold water and therefore don’t require any attention. “We’ve had great success at wintering them outside,” says Ashcroft. “They’ve been outside three

Koi are hardy and also make excellent pond fish. Larger than goldfish, and hungrier, they are hard on pond plants but interesting to watch as they become quite bold. Koi can live up to 25 years and if not wintered outside, require a large tank to keep them healthy.

Pond maintenance is important. “We hop in and clean out the algae, and every two or three years we clean it completely,” says Ashcroft. “It’s nothing to spend 20 minutes at the pond every couple of days, just to root and clean. It’s very relaxing. It’s not work.”

Once started, ponds aren’t an expensive hobby to keep up. Pumps are the biggest expense and the biggest headache. “As old parts need to be replaced,” Ashcroft says, “it’s often hard to find new parts that fit with the old equipment, so we’re constantly adjusting to make things fit.

“Ponds suck you in,” she adds. “But if you like being outside and you like gardening, it’s very rewarding.”

“It’s not a lot of work,” says Staples.“The satisfaction is worth it.” life

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