What should I do to clean a small fish pond filled with ick and brown water?

Question

We've moved into a home where the previous owners did not take care of the pond (approx 3' X 4' X 3') There are 4 goldfish that are thriving in the filthy water which is reddish brown with dark slimy ick that clogs the pump daily. Green Algae is growing on the sides, but I want to get rid of the brownish black gunk without harming the fish. Please Help!

Answer 1

The Green Gardenista recommends Barley Bales - a natural and safe alternative to some of the chemical solutions out there.  The Barley produces Hydrogen Peroxide which kills and prevents algae growth (along with other pond scum as well).  Here's the article for more info:

http://www.greengardenista.com/blog/revi...

Hope this helps!

Cheers,

Chris

Answer 2

As a one-time deal, you might want to transport the fishes do a holding tank or kiddy pool and just clean that pond.

Once you do that, it would be beneficial to install a good pond filter and introduce plans to create a balanced echo system.  You can buy a underwater filter and a pump for under $100 at any home depot.  On the other hand, you can build one cheaply following the instruction from the following site.  I did the exact same thing 3 months ago, and it works perfectly.

Answer 3

Just go to your local pond or aquarium store and get algaecide. Make sure that it says itt is safe for fish and plants. It will get rid of the algae in a few days.Then,clean the filter and add some fresh water to the pond.In a few weeks,add some live plants and a barley straw bale to the water.This should keep the water clear.

http://www.bestfish.com/barlybal.html

Answer 4

I have  a goldfish pond and once it got awful so I took all the fish out and pumped the Water out and scrubbed the Pond and put new water in it.I did get a good Pump and Filter system and all is well.Goldfish are pretty hardy and will do well in a plastic bowl while you clean the pond.My pond has 900 gallons water and it was a job but it was well worth it my Fish are healthy and eat out of my Hand.Good Luck.