Asked By: Jake, Grand Junction, CO
A: There's nothing like spring cleaning – especially when it gives you a chance to remove some of that icky, slimy scum and debris that's been growing on your waterfall, rocks and gravel all year-long. With the water drained from your pond (after your fish are safe in a temporary tub), you have easy access to those hard-to-clean spots. Here's our two-step solution to scrub everything clean.
Step 1: Power Wash
Without a doubt, power washing with a pressure washer or high-pressure nozzle is the quickest way to blast debris off larger rocks and features. Once your pond is drained, and you've removed large debris and trimmed away dead plant material, start power washing from the top and work your way down, being careful to avoid growing plants and curious frogs. Some of that debris contains viable beneficial bacteria, so it's OK to leave a little behind.
Because all that stuck-on debris is easier to remove when it's wet, start power washing as soon as possible after your pond is drained. Believe us: It's harder to clean off that debris once it's dried out and crusty!
Step 2: Oxy-Lift
Next, use
Oxy-Lift Defense to lift and remove tough debris on larger rocks, waterfalls and streams by pouring it directly on the trouble spots. While you're at it, sprinkle some on the smaller rocks and hard-to-power-wash gravel, too. You will instantly see it start to foam and remove stuck-on scum. After about 10 minutes or so, hose everything down, drain the dirty water and debris, and repeat as necessary; it might take a few cycles for a thorough clean-out.
After your pond is spick and span, your rocks and gravel are in place, and your plants are repositioned, fill it back up with water and add a
Chlorine Remover or Stress Reducer Plus to condition the water and make the freshly cleaned aquatic environment safe for your fish. While your filters and pond are being reestablished with beneficial bacteria, keep your finned pals on a light spring diet.
For more tips on how to perform a spring cleanout, check out our
video that details what you need to do to prepare your pond for the warmer months.