Myth #1: A water garden involves a lot of maintenance!
A well-designed aquatic ecosystem (which contains the five essential elements) requires only a few minutes of maintenance per wee
Myth #2: You have to empty the pond regularly!
If your water garden is an aquatic ecosystem in harmony with nature, then you only have to completely empty the pond once a year in the spring. In this way, we imitate the natural cleaning cycle of lakes during spring runoff.
Myth #3: The pond must be at least one metre deep if you want to keep fish!
This is a very common myth. In winter, water freezes only 20 cm (8 inches) deep due to the insulating properties of the soil around the pond. Goldfish and Koi do very well in ponds which are only 60 cm (2 feet) deep. The important thing is to keep an opening in the ice for oxygen to enter the water.
Myth #4: River pebbles and rocks makes it difficult to clean the pond!
On the contrary, the presence of rocks and pebbles support the development of purifying bacteria that breaks down organic matter. Otherwise, it would accumulate at the bottom as sludge.
Myth #5: I want my water garden located in the lowest part of my lot, since the water won’t go anywhere!
This is probably the worst place to put your pond. Surface runoff will deposit a lot of debris in the pond. Moreover, if water gets under the liner, it will lift and create a bulge.
Myth #6: You have to repeatedly test the water in the pond!
Mother Nature never tests her water and her aquatic ecosystems are thriving. A well-designed water garden normally requires no water testing.
Myth #7: A water garden attracts mosquitoes!
Mosquitoes lay their eggs on the surface of stagnant water. The use of a skimmer which draws surface water into a net prevents their development. And if there are fish in the pond, mosquitos makes a nice little snack.
Myth #8: I’m worried about safety!
It’s normal to have safety concerns. However, remember that a well-designed water garden is built in levels, similar to a staircase. On the first level, water comes up to your ankles. On the second level, the water is under your knees. Deeper, it’s a little above the knees. It’s not like a swimming pool. We recommend that you notify your neighbors that you have a water garden as well as educate your children and friends on water safety. If you feel there is a risk, why not choose a pondless waterfall system?
Myth #9: A water garden will lower the resale value of my house!
We all know that when selling a house, a pool is usually a negative feature. However, it is the opinion of many real estate agents that a water garden turns out to be a very positive element. Their ever increasing popularity may even contribute to a higher sales price.
Myth #10: You cannot build a water garden under trees!
It is true that you will have more leaves in your pond in the fall. On the other hand, shade from the trees keeps the water cooler in streams and waterfalls and prevents algae growth. Simply install a net over your pond in the fall to prevent leaves from falling in the water and overloading the skimmer.