Is Going Green Right for You?
There’s no simple answer to that question. It really depends on your situation. If you have a fairly small-to-medium sized pond, allowing the pond to become self-reliant and only stepping in to do minimal maintenance on it is generally a good idea, especially if you have enough beneficial plants to aid in the process that helps keep your pond clean naturally.
There comes a size that having a completely natural pond is beyond unreasonable. Let’s say for instance you have a very large pond and are trying to help it by adding a lot of beneficial plants including marginals and lotus plants. These plants still have leaves and roots that die and create organic waste, which may end up causing more of a problem than it helps to solve.
Either way—chemical or natural—it is important to research contractors and make sure that the person servicing your pond is a licensed professional and that they make you aware of all options available for your specific circumstance. Because anyone can swindle you, make sure to educate yourself as well. Know about biofilters and other natural ways of cleaning your pond and making sure it stays clean. Know about the chemicals that are used to clear algae and learn about the different techniques. This knowledge could save you a lot of money in that you could learn to do it all yourself and not waste money on a contractor to have his well-paid crew to do it for you.
Pond maintenance is work, yes, but it pays off in that you have a nice, clean and clear pond at which to lovingly gaze. And a little bit of maintenance work just helps you appreciate your pond all the more.
