One of the best things about Summer is relaxing by some water and for those of us who don’t happen to have a natural stream or river winding its way through our garden, nor afford a swimming pool, the chances are you’ll be the proud owner of your very own garden pond.

Sitting by the pond on a Summer’s day can provide great entertainment. After just a few minutes you’ll begin to appreciate just how much wildlife is attracted to a pond as you witness all the little creatures going about their business before your very eyes.

Mother Nature does of course need a helping hand from time to time. If you’ve already put some time in with your Spring maintenance, there won’t be much to do and you should have plenty of time to sit back and enjoy your pond.

One of the most important elements of pond keeping during the Summer months is ensuring that there is sufficient oxygen in your pond. Whilst pond plants give off oxygen during the day, the process is reversed at night and therefore during very hot muggy conditions, it is important that pumps are maintained to maximise the circulation of oxygen.

During the Summer months more waste is produced by fish and ponds tend to suffer from higher levels of algae, which means more work for the filter. Whilst the filters should be cleared out only when necessary, it is recommended that cleaning is carried out every 2-4 weeks. Pond filtration media should be cleaned in excess pond water and not in tap water, as this will destroy the beneficial enzymes and bacteria within your filtration system.

Blanket weed (long strands of green woolly algae) can often be a problem during the Summer months. Clear water attracts blanket weed, which can clog and choke the pond. Blanket weed can be minimised by ensuring that two thirds of the pond surface is covered by plants. Excess weed can be removed by hand, by twirling it round a stick and there are propriety treatments available which also work to help reduce or remove it which can be extremely effective.

Some plant maintenance may be needed in Summer, as plants grow and flower. Plants that have already flowered need to be cut back to avoid any rotting vegetation sinking to the bottom of the pond, clogging the filtration system and removing oxygen from the water. Plants which are of particular benefit during the Summer months include Lobelia cardinalis with its handsome dark red foliage and bright red blooms and various grasses which add attractive foliage to the pond. Ferns and Hostas with their highly luxuriant foliage add great texture and set off flowering plants to their best. Water Lilies are at their flowering best during this time of year and no still water pond would be complete without one! Plants enhance the look of any pond and help produce an important environment for wildlife.

All of these measures will ensure a healthy and happy Summer for your pond inhabitants and an enjoyable and rewarding Summer for the pond keeper.