SPRING

The first sign of spring is first seen in the garden pool when the pond plants start to sprout. By mid April the fish begin to look out for food, feed them with small amounts of food three to four times a day. At around this time of the year the pool takes on a green "pea soup" appearance, to over come this problem, you can use U.V.'s and filters or plant sufficient oxygenated plants to absorb additional sunlight the pool is receiving. If your pool needs cleaning out May is the best time to do it.

SUMMER

The adult fish will normally spawn in the morning, two to three males will chase a plump female through the oxygenating plants, laying and fertilising the eggs as they go. With the increase in water temperature the fish will become more active and will require more food. In July thread algae that appear should be removed carefully. During hot or thundery weather your fish may start to gasp at the surface of the pool, indicating that there is insufficient oxygen in the water. Should this occur, switch on the waterfall or fountain and if possible allow some water from the garden hose to trickle into the pool.

AUTUMN

All dying and dead leaves and plants should be removed. Put a net over the pool to stop leaves from entering and to keep cats and predatory birds from catching the fish. If possible a pool heater should be fitted.

WINTER

Food consumption will start to fall as the weather gets colder. When the ice forms on the pool switch on the pool heater, this will enable any gases caused by decomposing leaves and plants to escape. If a pool heater is not available melt a hole in the ice with hot water, do not knock a hole in the ice as shock waves could stun or even kill the fish.

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