Maintaining a clean and predator-free pond is essential for the health and well-being of its inhabitants. Installing netting is a great, less expensive alternative to pond electric fencing. We’ll walk you through the process of properly setting up netting for your pond. This simple yet crucial step will help keep predators out and prevent leaves and debris from accumulating, especially during the fall season. However, it’s important to consider the safety of your aquatic life, ensuring that fish are safely relocated before installing the netting.
Table of Contents
1. Choosing The Right Netting
You don’t need any complex materials to keep your pond free from unwanted intruders and debris. Regular netting used to protect fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries from birds works perfectly. This type of netting strikes the right balance, allowing leaves to be kept out while providing strength to withstand the weight of falling debris.
2. Preparing The Pond
Before installing the netting, clearing the pond of any fish that might get entangled or trapped is recommended. Ensure that the fish cannot fit through the netting’s openings. To simplify the installation process, you can temporarily pin the netting’s first two corners to rocks or other stable objects near the pond.
3. Installing The Netting
To achieve a secure and effective netting setup, it’s crucial to ensure that it is tight. A sagging netting may allow debris to enter the pond. Consider using plastic containers such as milk jugs or lidded totes placed strategically in the middle of the pond to help support the netting and prevent sagging. This arrangement allows debris to collect on the sides and be within reach for easy removal.
4. Securing It Correctly
When installing the netting, make sure there is sufficient overlap on all sides to prevent leaves or debris from falling into the pond. Trim any excess netting and ensure a tight fit. The netting should be taut enough to keep leaves out, yet loose enough to allow easy removal and maintenance. The netting is designed to be unobtrusive, becoming nearly invisible when the sunlight reflects off it. However, it’s essential to avoid letting the netting rest in the water, as it may serve as a platform for pests and leaves to enter the pond.
5. Maintaining It
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your pond clean and free from debris. Leaves that accumulate on the netting should be promptly removed to prevent them from breaking down and entering the water. Check the netting every other day and clear any debris that may have accumulated. Depending on the surrounding trees and foliage, you may need to clean the netting daily. Consistent maintenance will ensure that the weight of the netting does not push it down into the water, maintaining its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Installing netting around your pond provides invaluable protection against predators and keeps unwanted debris out. By following these simple steps, you can create a safe and clean environment for your aquatic life. Remember to relocate any fish before installing the netting and to maintain the netting regularly by removing accumulated debris.