PondUtah - Recently Updated Pages

PondUtah - Recently Updated Pageshttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/pageSearch/updatedRecently Updated Pages on http://pondutah.wetpaint.comen-usinfo@wetpaint.comTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:53:58 CDTTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:53:58 CDTwetpaint.com60PondUtahhttp://image.wetpaint.com/wiki/logo/image/gPFs3L8ieZofzQwWRxrdvg==16099http://pondutah.wetpaint.comHomehttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Homelambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/HomeTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:53:58 CDT

This is the place to get all of your information on ponds in Utah!

Here at the UWGC, we're all about making friends and helping others learn about ponds. Learn more about us and be sure to visit us at pondutah.

Watch for upcoming events and come to a meeting--we welcome visitors!
Contact randrcobb@comcast.net for more information! You can also email us at the same address if there are any other questions about our club.

Also if you do not feel comfortable about adding stuff or have questions about the Wiki, please email me at mhflowers@comcast.net. If you want to email me your pictures I can add your pond and make you a page. Please Feel free to add any information that you have. It would be greatly appreciated. It takes all the members to make our pond club great! Find everything new for the month on the bottom of this page.

Red Butte Volunteer Project 2008

New this month on the wiki

Pond tour August 9, and 10.

See the Azcuenada pond pictures!!

New information on Goldfish.

Under fish and diseases, read new information about diseases and fish concerns.

Pond photos, Harris pond. There is a Youtube video on how I built my pond.

Look under about UWGC to see what is happening.

]]>2.Upcoming Events/Calenderhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/2.Upcoming+Events%2FCalenderlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/2.Upcoming+Events%2FCalenderTue, 24 Jun 2008 11:52:09 CDTWhat is upcoming for 2008

This years pond tour is already shaping up to be a spectacular event. Mark your calender for August 9 & 10. The pond tour is a great way to get ideas for a new pond, or spruce up your existing pond. Plan on meeting friendly club members who will share their passion for water gardening.

July 17 Applegarth Pond in Riverton – TV coverage about the Pond Tour.

October 16– Banquet and Elections for club members. Let UWGC buy you dinner! Sounds like this will be a dinner that you will not want to miss.

]]>1. About UWGChttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/1.+About++UWGClambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/1.+About++UWGCSun, 11 May 2008 12:06:27 CDT The Utah Water Garden Club.
Is a non profit organization dedicated to helping others discover the hobby of water gardening and all it's aspects. Our unique perspective is from a Utah point of view--how to build, what to grow, when to do it and who to know--as it pertains to Utah ponds.
What's Happening

Visit us at pondutah.com or come visit us pondside!

Get a glimpse of what is going on in our club!

]]>The Harris' Pondhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/The+Harris%27+Pondlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/The+Harris%27+PondFri, 09 May 2008 14:20:01 CDT

Now there will be pictures from 2006 and 2007!

Here are my hardy water lilies that I love to grow. I currently have 7 pots of them in my pond! I will be waiting this year for my yellow and white flowers to bloom.

The algae is really starting to grow this spring!

]]>Azcuenaga Pondhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Azcuenaga+Pondharleighgirlhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Azcuenaga+PondMon, 21 Apr 2008 17:05:18 CDT
]]>Fish Diseasehttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Fish+Diseaselambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Fish+DiseaseSun, 20 Apr 2008 11:41:37 CDTInjuries
Parasites
Infections
Over crowding (too many fish)
Unhealthy living conditions
These illnesses manifest themselves usually in the late fall, winter and early spring when the the fishes immune system is not fully functional.

Unfortunately, these parasites and bacteria become active around 40° F but the fishes immune system does not become active until about 65° F, leaving the fish very vulnerable to attack with no way to fight back and you must fight for him.

Treatment for a sick fish involves diagnosing the problem, then finding the suitable solution.
Success depends on how quickly you act, and how precise you are in identifying the problem and dealing with it correctly.

Koivet.com has an excellent symptom table, along with wonderful advice to keep your fish healthy.
Koicarp.net is a great source for info on koi care, as is Keystonehatcheries.
These are also good sources for cures and pond aids, provided your fish still has time for you to shop online.

You will make mistakes and fish will die, but most will recover and thank you in their own way. If you have questions that need answering and you can not find the answers here try visiting http://Koivet.com and posting your problem on their message board. Fish medication and consultation in Utah can be found at:

Wasatch Koi

or call Advanced Ponds in Sandy, 255-3698

Some more information about diseases

These first four photos from Dr. Erik Johnson of koivet.com:
To the left the photo shows a koi with probable skin cancer.

The open-mouth in the koi shown below is likely due to an abscess in the mouth but it could be something as "simple" as a foreign object caught in the mouth.

Swim bladder infections manifest themselves in many ways, but overfilling seems quite common. Sometimes the fish sinks to the bottom of the pond when the swim bladder is infected-suspect swim bladder infections if sinking fish is what you see.

A parasite infection or worm infection is usually visible- you can see something is wrong without a microscope.

Fish Concerns

Fin rot - Fins and tail appear to be rotting off, with red areas around fins. Treatment- Clean up pond water and treat with rot medicines.

Fish leach - Skin examination shows wormlike leaches. Treatment- Place fish in a container with 15 tablespoons of salt per 2 gallons of water for 20 minutes.

Fish lice - Red spots turn into ulcerations. Treatment- Give fish 30 minute bath of .1 gram potassium permanganate per 2 gallons of water. Treat the entire pond if you cannot catch all the individual fish.

Fish Pox - Pink, white or gray spots on the skin. This often occurs in spring. Treatment- General pond cleaning.

Fungus - Cottonlike growths on the skin. Treatment- Treat the entire pond. Fungus usually attacks weak fish.

Gill flukes - Parasties can cause fish to rub against objects, rapidly move their gills and gasp at the water surface. Treatment- Organic-phosphorus-based medicines, or those designed for the gills, might work. Copper-base chemicals kill any invertabrates, such as crayfish, clams and freshwater shrimp in your pond.

Gill rot - Fish appear lethargic and display red and swollen gills, mucus around gills or bleeding gills. Treatment- A slat dip of 2 tablespoons per gallon of water, or antibiotics.

Sliminess - Fins are held tight against the body and the fish rub against objects. Slimy coating can be on eyes. It is caused by too much ammonia in the water. Treatment- Test the water and treat it with water changes and medications.

Ulcerations - Res sores on the body. Treatment- Purchase a painted on medication. Also put fish into a container with 2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water.

- Pinhead-sized white spots on the body, this is extremely contagious. Treatment- Treat the entire pond over several days to kill free-swimming parasites.

Reference: Protch, O (2008). Spring Pond Keeping. Ponds Magazine , 8,33

]]>7.Fishhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/7.Fishlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/7.FishSat, 19 Apr 2008 20:59:02 CDT

Caring for your Fish Make your pond a nice home and keep your fish healthy. Buying Fish Feeding Fish Disease Salt? Pros and Cons Slime Coat	Koi: A Pond Favorite Koi are in a class by themselves, as you'll soon learn in this section. Japanese versus Domestic Koi Raise Your Own Koi Koi Classification Friendly Koi
Other Pond Fish Let's not forget these other pond favorites!! Gambusia (Mosquito fish) Goldfish	Where to go Visit pondutah.com and check out our pond suppliers section for the best deals on fish and pond supplies in Utah. While you're there, see our Links for more great pond info.

]]>Goldfishhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Goldfishlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/GoldfishSat, 19 Apr 2008 20:08:11 CDT Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are probably the most commonly kept pond and aquarium fish in the world and probably the first domesticated fish. In the west, goldfish are thought of as inexpensive children's' pets costing as little as 20 cents to a few dollars for a pet-grade fish. However it is not uncommon for collectors to pay thousands of dollars for a single well-breed, show-class fish. In Asia keeping goldfish is a very honorable and respected pastime and goldfish are often referred to as living art like bonsai.

Goldfish live, on the average, 5-10 years but have been recorded living as long as 49. They can grow up to 24 inches long, but rarely do so. Most "fancy" breeds won't grow longer than nine inches.

They come in a variety of colors including: orange; red; yellow; brown; blue; black; white; green and purple and can be solid, multi colored or calico. Scales are metallic, matte, or nacreous. Unlike koi, different breeds of goldfish have many variations in body and finage—so much so that different breeds may look like different species. Goldfish bodies vary from long and slender (wild-type) like a koi to almost spherical in the case of the ping-pong pearlscale. Goldfish tails may be single or divided into two separate fins, short or long. Other body variations include: lack of dorsal finage; nasal growths; wen (fleshy head growth); telescope eyes; bubble eyes; and pearlscales.

Because of their relatively small size, goldfish can be kept in shallow water so long as the water temperature is kept stable and cool—in fact, some breeds, such as tosakin, should only be kept in shallow water.

Goldfish, like koi, are social fish and swim together in schools. Although goldfish can be kept with koi, will school with koi, will eat the same food as koi and can even interbreed with koi, they are different species. Goldfish are subject to the same diseases and parasites as koi and can be treated for illnesses much as you would koi. The hibuna (common), comets, wakin, jikin, shubunkins and other long bodied breeds are strong swimmers and very hardy and can be kept with koi. Others short-bodied or "fancy" breeds should be kept with breeds with similar swimming ability and size. Tosakin and bubble eyes are not appropriate for most natural-style or planted ponds and should be kept in specialized ponds (shallow stock tanks) or aquariums to protect fragile body structures and will therefore need winter protection.

It is often thought that all fancy goldfish need to be brought in for the winter as they are not as tolerant of the cold as the wild-body-type breeds such as comets. Though not quite as hardy as a koi, most breeds of goldfish can easily over winter under ice providing there is adequate gas exchange. Goldfish tolerate temperatures below 40F and above 90F but do best at temperatures in the 60s and 70s. If kept indoors, goldfish should be kept without supplemental heaters.

Goldfish are top and mid-water feeders with forward facing mouths (in contrast to the bottom feeding koi's downward facing mouth) and are effective at controlling mosquitoes and other aquatic insects. Though they will graze algae and eat off the bottom, they will not dig through potted plants or eat the leaves as koi will often do.

There are dozens of, if not more, breeds of goldfish—only a fraction of which can be found in the West. Bristol Aquarists Society have put together a collection of descriptions and pictures of the most common breeds. Wikipedia is another good source of information about the different breeds and their histories. The most comprehensive websites about goldfish are naturally Asian as goldfish keeping is much more popular and respected in the East.

]]>Mosquitohttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Mosquitolambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/MosquitoI need itSun, 30 Mar 2008 11:49:16 CDT

]]>Dragonflieshttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Dragonflieslambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/DragonfliesSun, 30 Mar 2008 11:26:57 CDT Dragonflies and damselflies are so good at catching mosquitoes.They consume up to 200 mosquitoes a day. There are more than 450 species of dragonflies that exist in North America alone. They will usually find ponds on their own and do not need to be introduced to yours. Many water garden suppliers and mail-order sources carry the juvenile forms of dragonflies and damselflies. The juveniles may take a year or more to mature. They are carnivorous at this stage, living underwater and feeding on insects and very small fish. The adult live for three to four months and will guard a territory around the pond against other of the same species.
Adults will lay their eggs on the undersides of a water lily leaves or directly on the surface of the water. The eggs hatch in late summer, and the juveniles overwinter in the pond, even in cold climates.

]]>9.Other Stuffhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/9.Other+Stufflambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/9.Other+StuffSun, 30 Mar 2008 11:11:48 CDT Here is some other interesting stuff that our members have added.

Links to other clubs.

Links and local stores to buy pond products and get great information.

Cattail Trivia
Evaporation
Fun facts
Inventions
Jokes
Pond Liabilities
West Nile Blues

]]>Links to great places to buy stuff and get great informationhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Links+to+great+places+to+buy+stuff+and+get+great+informationlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Links+to+great+places+to+buy+stuff+and+get+great+informationSun, 30 Mar 2008 11:00:15 CDT

Blondie's Water Garden - Very awesome site and pictures! Also does web design!

The resource for keeping Nishikigo - Lots of information on koi and koi products to buy.

Pond N Things - Very cute website and many supplies!

Koi Club of The Air - Check out the live radio show!

Doctors Foster and Smith - Has good products for ponds to purchase, fun magazine to look threw.

The Water Garden - Has lot's of great pond information and many products to choose from. You also get points for ordering products and can get discounts on future purchases.

azponds.com - Many supplies to purchase for your pond!

State Stone - Great place do get all of your boulders and stone that you need, so many different varieties and rock to pick from! Phone # 801-262-9323 Address - 4640 So. 300 W. Murray, Utah

American Stone - Another great place to get all your rock needs! Also has an indoor pond with koi and ducks. Phone # 801- 262-4300 Address - 4040 S. 300 W. Salt Lake City, Utah

Marinedepot - Many products for salt water tanks, freshwater, and ponds.

koivet.com- Get some information on your koi.

Koi.com- Buy some koi or read all about them.

Larrysagers.com- All sorts of great information.

]]>Linkshttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Linkslambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/LinksSun, 30 Mar 2008 10:56:52 CDT Links To Other Clubs!

Water Garden Club of South Texas - Very nice site! Also another non-profit organization, nice to see other clubs from other states.

St. Louis Water Gardening Society - Nice pond tour pictures!

Miami Water Garden Society - Check out there ponds and info!

The Dallas Koi Kichi Group - Nice site, interesting facts on koi.

Illiana Water Garden Society - Great photography, check out the pond walk!

Greater Phoenix Pond Society - Check out the photo gallery.

Water Garden Club of British Columbia - Very nice to see ponds somewhere out of the United States!

Central Alabama Koi & Water Garden Society - Lots of information on koi and very cute cursor, check out the site!

Houston Pond Society - Very cute looking website!

San Francisco Bay Area Koi Club - Check out all of the pictures!

Santa Clara Valley Koi & Water Garden Club - Check out the koi shows coming!

North Florida Koi Club - Lot's of koi information and nice pictures!

Tropical Koi and Water Garden Club of South Florida - Check out all the great shows coming up for koi and the pictures.

Gainesville Koi Club - Check out the site it has a great amount of information and fun stuff.

Orlando Area Koi and Pond Club - Nice site check it out!

Florida Koi Society - A lot of information on koi and some good articles.

Midwest Pond & Koi Society - Nice website and a lot of information!

First Koi, Goldfish and Water Garden Club - They are working on their site to make it new, will be ready in about a month.

Salt Lake Koi Club - Very nice site! A lot of our members also belong to this club. Which is great!

Eastern Iowa Pond Society inc. - A great club with nice pond pictures.

Wabash Valley Water Garden Society - Great information on how to start a water garden society.

Michigan Koi & Pond Clubs, Southeast Chapter - Check out the site for some interesting information.

Koi and Water Garden Society of Central New York - Lot's of information about koi.

Triad Koi and Water Garden Society - Very nice gallery of pictures!

Northwest Koi & Goldfish Club - Check out the Koi show champions!

Springfield Water Garden Society - Some really good information to read about.

Waco Pond Society - Check out the projects of the pond tours!

International Waterlily & Water Garden Society - Very nice looking site!

Green River Pond Club - Check out the pond tour pictures, it is really fun!

Delaware Valley Water Garden Society - Really fun to have a club for the east coast.

Water Garden Society Of Oklahoma - Really cute home page!

St. Joseph Water Garden Society - Fun website to look at!

Southwest Koi and Pond Association - They are celebrating there eleventh year, lots of good pictures and information.

Oregon Koi and Water Garden Society - Great website and make sure to checkout the members ponds!

]]>Equipmenthttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Equipmentlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/EquipmentTue, 12 Jun 2007 10:35:21 CDT
Pond Liners
EPDM liners are flexible, rugged, long lasting liners. They are made of 45 ml EPDM rubber. Most liners will carry a 20 year manufacturer's warranty.

To find the dimensions of the liner you need to take, the desired length and width of your pond and add two times the desired maximum depth to each. You'll need some overlap on the pond banks to secure the liner in place, so add an additional 1 1/2 ft to 2 ft to these figures.

Pond Underlayment
Non-woven needle punched 6 oz fabric underlayment provides the first line of defense against liner puncture and tears. Place under the pond liner during pond construction as a barrier against rocks or roots, to prevent costly and time consuming repairs. You can also use carpet remnants and newspaper.

Preformed Liners

Sprayed on liners

Cement bottom ponds

Pumps

]]>3. Pond Photoshttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/3.+Pond+Photosmr.pondhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/3.+Pond+PhotosMon, 09 Apr 2007 19:58:14 CDT
Here in Utah, we have the most gorgeous ponds on our planet! Large, small, deep, shallow or pondless. Some with a multitude of wildlife, some with an incredible abundance of plants, some perfect for snorkeling.

Want to show off your artistic masterpiece? Click "Add a new page" in the Page Toolbox on the left column. If you need help, there is a great tutorial in the Help section of the toolbar in the upper right corner. Be sure to preview the templates to see which one you prefer.

The Applegarth Pond page used the blank template for it's layout. You can choose the Photo 1 or Photo 2 template. You can also choose the text with Photo template. You decide which you like best and start uploading photos of YOUR artistic ability and hard work!

Don't wait too long to add your pond. The list is based on when the pages are added, so if you want to be high on the index, add soon! We expect the list to eventually be 6 scrolls long!
Applegarth pond
Gusta Pond
Harris Pond
The Noyes Pond
The Stokes' Pond

]]>Floating Water Plantshttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Floating+Water+Plantslambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Floating+Water+PlantsMon, 09 Apr 2007 11:11:28 CDT Floating water plants are the ultimate in easy care water gardening!
There is no potting necessary for these plant's. The plants will just drift in the pond. Their roots dangle down into the water, drawing nutrients for the plant's growth. They act as the pond's feather dusters, removing suspended particles from the water. Also these plants are important for shading the pond to protect fish and other wildlife from baking under the hot sun. The plants also provide a way for wildlife to hide from predators. Floating plants are fertile spawning grounds in the spring and hideaways for the young fry that hatch and grow in summer.

Plants that grow on the water's surface have developed special means to keep themselves afloat. Some, such as water hyacinth, have enlarged air sacs in their leaves to keep them afloat. Others, such as frogbit, use repellent waxes to keep the water from being absorbed into their foliage. Still others, such as water lettuce, have water repellent hairs that use surface tension to allow the leaves literally to stand on the water. All floating plants use their ability to float to exploit an environmental niche. Growing in water that is too deep for other plants or that appears only seasonally, such as floodwater in order to grow in water that is rich in nutrients.

Larger floating water plants, such as the sensitive plants, water lettuce, and water hyacinth, grow well in ponds of all sizes. Keep them in the top of a stream or waterfall to aid in biological filtration. Smaller plants are more appropriate for container or container and tub gardens. In large, earthen ponds, it takes quite a few to make an impression. Floating plants are best not permitted to completely cover a pond's surface. Too many plants can reduce oxygen in the water levels that are dangerous to fish and other underwater animals. Very general rule is that one third of the pond's water surface should be covered with vegetation. You can also use rubber rings that you can buy from pond suppliers to keep your floating plants from going into the skimmer, or other unwanted area's.

Most floating water plants grow well in full sun. Many also grow well in part shade, water fern and water lettuce would be an example. Floating water plants are very sensitive to salt being added to the pond, salt quickly dries out the plants. Floating water plants absorb nitrates and phosphates from the water. Water hyacinth and water lettuce, in fact, are so efficient that they are often recommended to aid filtration.

Floaters that require warm summer temperatures should not be placed in the pond until the water temperature has reached a consistent 65 degrees. If the water falls below 65 it can cause the foliage to yellow and form black streaks.

Most floating plants are propagated by dividing off new growth that is produced on side shoots. Once the new growth has developed enough roots to support itself, it can be detached from the main plant. Fish can be a problem because they tug on the plant's roots and tear at their leaves. Koi are probably the most prevalent pest of water hyacinth and water lettuce. Deer, raccoons, and muskrats also like to munch on these leaves.

Aeschynomene flutians, giant water sensitive plant	Giant water sensitive plant has long, 1-3 inch leaves that grow alternately on a single stem. This stem floats on the water, becoming swollen, white, and somewhat furry as it ages. The plant's summer blooming, large 1 inch flowers are yellow and resemble blossoms of the common sweet pea, although they have no fragrance. Leaves are sensitive and close when touched. A quick grower, it is native to warm regions of the world and may be grown free-floating or rooted to the edge of the pond with its stems trailing out on the water surface. It grows in sun to part shade and reaches 2 inches high with a running spread. Giant water sensitive plant propagates by division or cuttings. It may also be grown from seed sown on moist soil, which usually sprouts in a few weeks. To overwinter the plant, make sure to keep it in water that is frost free, preferably above 60 degrees. Mealybugs and spider mites may affect the plants, mostly in winter. Hardy in Zones 9-11.
Azolla, Azollaceae	A true fern, this aquatic has leaves that are fuzzy and finely toothed. A bright green in summer, leaves turn red in spring and fall when the water is cool. Excellent pond cover for fish and other wildlife. Azolla species hold a blue-green algae that fixes nitrogen, fertilizing plants, so be sure to put any that are skimmed from the pond into the compost or use as a mulch in the perennial garden. Azolla species are very sensitive to the number of daylight hours they receive, giving them a tendency to die out during the shorter days of winter. They grow in sun to shade, reaching 1/2 inch high with a running spread. Hardy in Zones 9-11.
Azolla caroliniana, fairy moss, mosquito fern	Fairy moss is native to North America. It can be found growing wild as far north as Michigan and Wisconsin and into the New England states. Plants are rounded, no tirangular, like branches of aborvitae (Thuja). They overwinter by freezing in the ice and thawing in spring.
Azolla pinnata, Christmas tree fern	A species native to South America, Azolla pinnata has triangular shaped foliage that looks something like a flat Christmas tree. It is considered invasive and is prohibited under U.S. federal law. It will usually die in winter since it depends on long hours of daylight.
Ceratopteris thalictroides, water fern	Leaves of this unusual floating plant look like big, puffy leaves of italian parsley. The plant is said to resemble a fern because of its highly cut and serrated leaves. It usually reaches 12 inches high and wide. Any part of the foliage that lies on the water surface sprouts a plantlet and will root to become a new plant. Water fern also grows in soil in a few inches of water. It grows best in full shade, and needs at least part shade to survive. To overwinter water fern, which is hardy in Zones 9-11, keep it in water of at least 65 degrees. Bring it indoors into a warm fish tank. It is not bothered by pests or diseases.
Eichhornia, water hyacinth	Well known for lavender-blue flowers and shiny green foliage, the tender floating aquatic. Leaves are spongy and inflated at the base, making them float in the water. Plants reach about 12 inches high with a running spread. Water hyacinths also make great container plants, just drop them in any pot that will hold water, throw some fertilizer in, and be rewarded with tons of flowers for the entire summer. The thick, long roots of water hyacinths are black and feathered. Trim them back or thin periodically so that older roots do not start to decompose in the pond or clog filtering systems. Hyacinths are grow best in sun to part shade om warm water and will not survive a winter freeze. They are hardy Zones 9-11. So you will want to wait until water temperature is consistenly 65 degrees before putting them into the pond. In southern states, the plants are considered noxious weeds because of their ability to clog waterways. Federal law in the U.S. prohibits their sale in some states.
Hydrocharis morsus-ranae, Frogbit	The common name frogbit is applied to several different plants. Hydrocharis, morsus-ranae and Limbonium spongeanum the two most common and is unfortunately the object of some confusion. Hydrocharis morsus- ranae is the prettier plant, with small, white, three petaled flowers that look like miniature water poppies. Leaves are shiny and heart shaped and have a "floating sac" on the undersides. It is a great plant for the small pond and for containers because it is pretty and easy to grow. Grows in sun to part shade with a running spread, reaching up to a half inch tall. It forms buds that sink to the bottom of the pond to over winter until spring. Hardy in Zones 4-10.
Hyfroyza aristata, floating purple spike	A small floating, creeping grass of warm waters, this plant is ideal for containers and small water gardens. It also works well at the edge of the pond or as a floating cover beneath taller plants. As the plant matures, it develops a burgundy chevron in the center of each leaf, providing additional foliar interest. It is able to float because its leaf sheath becomes spongy. As it does, it takes on a reddish tan color. Its flowers are uneventful, about 2 inches tall, appearing as black or brown spikes in late summer. Grows in part shade to part sun. Hardy Zones 9-11.
Lemna, duckweed	Known as the smallest flowering plant in the world, many species make up the genus lemna, commonly called duckweed. Most duckweed's have leaves that are round or almost round. They are slight round or almost round. They are light green and less than 1/8 inch in diameter, with a single root growing from the undersides of the leaf. The do also flower, the blooms are so Minuit they defy detection by the naked eye. Duckweeds grow in sun to part shade with a running spread, quickly covering water surface. If you have a skimmer these will quickly be sucked in. Good idea to put them in a hoop with other floating water plants to keep them around with the skimmer. Duckweeds grow in sun to part shade. Hardy in Zones 3-11, they overwinter by producing buds that sink to the bottom of the pond. Fish also like to eat duckweed, and it may be have a hard time staying alive in the pond shared with koi or goldfish.
Limbonium spongeanum, frogbit	This one looks very much like the other type of frogbit. But it has shiny leaves that are oval, not heart shaped. It, too, has a floating sac on the underside of each leaf. Blossoms are not very showy, just 1/4 inch, scrizzly mops of pale cream. The plant produces shorter runners, and more of them, than the hydricharis. Grows in sun to part shade with a running spread, reaching 1/2 inch tall. Hardy Zones 4-10. Overwinters threw similar buds.
Neptunia aquatica, sensitive plant	Sensitive plant, so named for its foliage that contracts at the slightest touch, has leaflets that are opposite, growing on either side of the petiole, arranged to resemble dragonfly wings. Its flowers are yellow tufts about 1 inch wide, appearing freely throughout the summer on the running stems. The plant's main floating stem becomes stout, white, and matted as the plant matures. Growing naturally in warm regions, sensitive plant is native to South America. Although it is often sold as a floating water plant, it also grows well rooted in soil at the edge of the pond, where it reaches about 6 inches tall. Situate in sun to part shade. Hardy in Zones 9-11.

]]>The Stokes' Pondhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/The+Stokes%27+PondSuzyQhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/The+Stokes%27+PondRenameMon, 09 Apr 2007 08:21:57 CDT

The hand-built water features of the Stokes ponds!

We decided to take our dry stream and change it into a nice water feature. It was a lot of hard work!

First pond that was ever built, out of a preformed liner! The goldfish like it!

Our second pond we made! All of the plants and fish love it!

Spring is blooming in our yard! The Robins are chirping and taking a bath, soon the frogs and the toads will appear.

]]>Koi Classificationhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Koi+Classificationmr.pondhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Koi+ClassificationWed, 04 Apr 2007 21:46:00 CDTThe word, "Koi" Comes from Japan, and it means, simply "Carp". The true word for the beautiful fish we raise is "Nishikigoi", meaning, "Brocaded Carp". Here in America, we refer to them as koi, quite simply because it's easier. Most of us also identify our koi by saying, "that pretty red and white one" or, "the big one with spots on it", mostly because learning the names for these fish is like learning a second language. A language with no practical value other than to talk with other koi owners about your fish.
But there are names given by the Japanese to describe varieties, as well as adjectives to explain different patterns and such within them. The value in learning these names is evident. Show quality koi that fall under the following categories can be worth hundreds, even thousands of dollars, so knowing what to look for can even be profitable!
Then again, even if you have just a few garden variety, domestic koi you bought from Walmart, at least you'll be able to recognize what your koi may be a cross between, for instance, "That one that would be a Kohaku if it wasn't for that black spot." And who knows, you may have a show fish in your pond and you don't even know it!

Visit www.pondutah.com for an easy lesson on Koi Identification. Or, read here for more in-depth information:

Kohaku A white fish with red markings. Kohaku koi are probably the most revered of all koi by the Japanese. In young Kohaku, the red coloring usually starts out yellow, turning orange then deep red with age. What to look for: Crisp, clean outline of the red markings over pure white. Good body shape. A nice pattern, or uniform color on each side. What to avoid: Any black spots. Small splotches of red are less desirable than larger, well outlined spots.	Taisho Sanke A white fish with red and black markings. Very common, but one with show quality markings can be hard to come by. What to look for: The same characteristics you look for in a Kohaku, but with added, smaller black spots. More red than black is favorable. Crisp outlines. As always, good body shape. What to avoid: Too much black. Speckled or splotchy spots. No black on the face or head, period.
Showa A black fish with red and white markings. Here it gets a bit tricky. A good rule is, if it has black on it's head, it's a showa, if not, it's Taisho Sanke. The thing to appreciate in Showa is the black base. What to look for: Showa will have black on it's head and an interesting pattern that takes up half the face is desirable. All three colors, even better. Nice black outline with red and white overlay is appreciated, thoug h Kindai Showa will show less black. All Showa have black at the base of the pectoral fins. What to avoid: Speckles. Uneven pattern or too much of one color on one side only.	Bekko A white fish with black markings. Simple as that, yet it's still pretty hard to find a good, quality fish. Bekko is not highly prized, but a nice addition to a school of more colorful fish. You can also have the more rare Ki bekko, which is a yellow fish with black markings, or Hi Bekko, black on red. What to look for: Crisp black spots against a pure white base. Balance of pattern on each side. Interesting shapes would add value to this fish. What to avoid: Dullness of black or white. Speckles or too many tiny spots. Odd body shape.
Utsuri A black fish with only one color of markings. This can be a black fish with white (shiro), red (Hi), or yellow (Ki) markings, but only one. If any other colors are present, it is then a Showa. Utsuri often has a stripped appearance which is very attractive. What to look for: Uniformity of pattern. Only one color over deep black. What to avoid: Dull color, especially in the black area. Speckles.	Hakarimuji Metallic koi of a single color. Also known as Ogon, and within this type is the Matsuba, a metallic fish with a net-like pattern. This fish can come in almost any koi color. What to look for: Uniform, unblemished, and shiny color. What to avoid: Any other color or blemish on the head. Poor body shape.
Asagi A Bluish, net-like pattern with red under the lateral line. This fish is pretty specialized, and a very old class which many others stem from. What to look for: The scale pattern is very important and should be uniform. the blue can be a variety of shades. Even redness on both sides, which can also show on the Dorsal and Pectoral fins. What to avoid: Blemishes on the head. Poor body shape.	Doitsu An adjective describing a scaleless koi, or one that has scales only along the dorsal fin area and or lateral line. These fish have smooth skin and can be very bright in color. What to look for: Whatever turns you on! Doitsu refers to the type of scales, so a nice fish would be governed by uniformity of pattern or nice color. What to avoid: You'd probably avoid Doitsu fish altogether if you want to win prizes, but not if you love beautiful fish.
Shusui A doitsu koi with bluish scales along the dorsal line and red below the lateral line. the best way to describe a Shusui is to show it . When small, the Shusui is more blue on top, but this often goes away with age, Leaving only the heavy scales on it's back blue. What to look for: Evenness of red color on each side. Uninterrupted scale pattern along dorsal line from back of head to tail. What to avoid: Blemishes or spots on the head.	Koromo A white and red koi having a robed or net-like pattern in the red area only. Koromos vary a good deal, so look for it's strengths rather than focusing on flaws. What to look for: Brightness and clarity. Netting only in the red area. Nice Shape. What to avoid: Color on the head is ok, but shouldn't be speckled or blemished.
Kujaku Koi with a net-like, robed pattern covering the back over a two colored pattern. Basically, a cross between an Asagi and a Kohaku. What to look for: Uniformity of pattern, evenly robed on back only. What to avoid: Poorly marked face. Spotty fins.	*Ginrin* An adjective used to describe shiny, diamond-like scales. If the shiny scales are gold, it is referred to as Kinrin. Ginrin can occur in any variety. What to look for: Uniformity of shiny scale distribution. What to avoid: Too few shiny scales. (One or two is not enough).
Tancho Adjective referring to a round, Red spot on the head. This can be on Kohaku, Sanke, or Showa. Japanese prize this fish, as it emulates their national flag. What to look for: Perfect roundness centered on the head. What to avoid: Any flaws pertaining to it's variety. No other red. Spot too small, or too large.	Kawarigoi Any koi worthy of mention, but not falling under another notable class. A Utah favorite! There are many koi that do not have a certain class, but can be none the less strikingly beautiful. These are the fish you get by luck, that you buy because they're pretty or that grow from an ugly duckling into a swan!
More to look for: Not too many of us look at the body or fins of the fish we buy, yet in judging koi, it is half the criteria. Good koi should be fattest in the middle, and tapering toward both ends. Males are naturally thinner, but no koi should be too thin. It's head should not be too big or small it's body size. The same goes for the fins. Any deformities or abrasions occurring at birth or from past disease or injury detracts. Judging colors or body shape in small koi takes an expertly trained eye and years of practice. 90% of the time, what you buy at 4 inches will be totally different at 12. An ugly, blackish baby can grow into a handsome Showa!	More info I know. We don't have a lot of koi shows here in Utah. It's very hard to find show quality koi in Utah, as the Japanese keep the very best for themselves or sell them at remarkably high prices. But do use this information to judge your own fish, and take it with you when you go shopping--you just might find a jewel! Visit our friends for more info: Wasatch Koi Koi.com Koi and Ponds

]]>4.Pond Constructionhttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/4.Pond+Constructionlambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/4.Pond+ConstructionWed, 04 Apr 2007 12:15:42 CDT Pond Construction Ponds are made from all sorts of things, from whiskey barrels to water troughs to bathtubs to a hole in the ground. There are many ways to make them water tight from concrete to fiberglass to liners to prefabrication. No one is better or worse than another. There are advantages and disadvantages of each. Here are a few helpful hints or tips on how to create a successful pond.

Pond Placement

The placement of the pond is the most important part of ponding. A pond placed in full sunshine will have more algae problems than a pond in the shade and less oxygen for the fish in the summer, but a pond in the shade will not have good plant or fish growth. What do you do?

Choose a spot where the pond will get morning sun and up to 6 hours of sun each day. If you are going to have a waterfall, it should ideally face north or northeastward. If it must face south or west, plant a tree that will shade the falls in the afternoon through evening. Otherwise, the falls will constantly be covered in algae.

Do not place the pond in the lowest part of the yard. Runoff will carry pesticides, fertilizers and other undesirable chemicals into the pond that will kill the fish and plants.

When placing ponds under trees, realize you may encounter roots. Cutting these roots may kill the tree if the roots are large enough. It is best to put trees in after you dig the hole for your pond. You will end up with an above ground pond or partially above ground pond if the roots are shallow, which makes the pond more expensive to make.

The pond must be level right to left and front to back if you want it to have a nice appearance. An unleveled pond will put the lip of the pond substantially above the water line and the other end will be flooding over constantly.

Digging a pond

Outline the shape of the pond using rope, a hose or spray paint before digging to make sure the pond fits in the desired location.

When digging the hole or making the shape of the pond, keep in mind that the walls of the pond will greatly influence how algae grows in the pond. Straight walled ponds have less algae problems than sloped wall ponds. Straight walls will also give the appearance of a larger and deeper pond.

The bottom of your pond should be sloped (about 7°) so that all the crud at the bottom of the pond will slide to a corner of the pond. This makes keeping the pond clean easier.

Do not use rocks all the way down the side walls of the pond. The rocks will be covered with algae and after spending so much money and time, it serves as a frustration point for you. Use rocks as a toping on the liner by placing them just above the water line. If you must have water contact with the rocks, keep it to a minimal depth. Do not use sandstone or limestone. Sandstone will fall apart during the winter when exposed to water and limestone will contribute to pH increases.

Equipment
Edging

Landscaping and Design

Filtration

Underlayment

Want someone to build it for you? In Utah, try Waters Edge
Need Supplies? Go to Eagar, Inc

]]>Edginghttp://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/Edginglambo102http://pondutah.wetpaint.com/page/EdgingWed, 04 Apr 2007 12:14:32 CDTTurfTurf makes a striking edging for formal ponds set in a flat stretch of lawn. It costs little, is easy to install, and is a good choice for edging an in-ground preformed liner with a lip that is not designed to support much weight. If you are seeding a new lawn, install sod around the pond to prevent soil from washing into the water.

Use turf as an edging only when you can keep the surrounding lawn in excellent condition. A brown or spotted lawn will be a splotchy frame for your water garden. Be aware, too, that having a water feature within the lawn can complicate lawn care. Use fertilizer and pesticides in moderation around a pond to avoid algae growth in the water. If the pond is stocked with fish, use only fish-safe materials.

Flagstone

Flagstone combines well with boulders, gravel, sand, or rock in naturalistic settings. It's easy to install as edging and ideal for a variety of water features, including ones on slopes, because you can stack it. It is also excellent for securing flexible liners in place and it can be mortared for stability and permanence.

Limestone is the most popular flagstone. Its appearance improves as it weathers and as moss and algae grow on it.

To use flagstone, dig a shallow shelf around the pool. Experiment with placing the pieces so they fit together neatly. Local stone is the least expensive and often the most natural looking.

Brick And Concrete Pavers

Using brick and concrete pavers is a great way to tie in with the patios, walks, or other hardscapes in your yard. Depending on the method you use, installing brick and concrete pavers can be easy or a challenge. It's fairly easy to dry lay them in sand, for example, but more difficult to set them in concrete.

Cut Stone

Cut stone is more expensive and more formal in appearance than flagstone, and it looks most appropriate around square or rectangular pools. It is excellent in most formal gardens, and it blends well with gravel, wood, brick, and other materials, both formal and informal.

Boulders

Ideal for naturalistic ponds, small boulders are relatively easy to work with. You'll need help to move any large boulders you want to install, and unless you find a free supply, purchase price and delivery costs will be high.

Patios And Decking

Water features built into a patio or deck put the water at a level where it's easy to enjoy. You won't have to buy separate edging material for the pond, so a deck or patio addition will be relatively inexpensive. Make sure the wood has not been treated with preservatives that can leach into the water and harm plants or fish.

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