Creating that Perfect Koi Pond

fish: It’s advisable to start out with small, inexpensive koi until you get your pond just right.

size: At least 1,000 gallons of water are needed for four or five koi. The formula for space and gallons is: length x width x depth = cubic feet x 7.5 gallons per cubic foot = volume in gallons.

equipment: Pond kits with aerators, filters, pumps and tubing are available from homeimprovement stores and nurseries.

feed: You can buy koi food and supplement with lettuce, cooked rice, and fresh or cooked shrimp.

safety: Although most koi ponds are built with a low wall around them and no netting over the top, be aware that herons, ospreys, raccoons and other animals may try to eat your koi. The amount of protection you need depends on the number of animals that frequent your yard.

oxygen: An aerator is important to add oxygen to the water in both winter and summer.

plants: There are underwater plants that add oxygen and above ground ones for appearance and shade. Your koi dealer can show you a wide variety of plants that will do well with koi.

temperature: Koi can tolerate the Florida heat but its best to give them some shade. They can actually live in freezing water as long as it’s aerated. When ice forms on top of the pond, they are unable to get enough oxygen, so make sure the aeration is working through the winter.