Looking into your pond's health starts with a solution sample being sent off to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture (NCDA). When submitting a sample, you will receive information on the nutrient contents of your pond water and how you can improve its fish production. This is very similar to a soil sample for your garden, but ponds have different pH requirements. Acidic ponds are common in North Carolina just like acidic soils. On your solution sample report, it is important to look at your pond's alkalinity. If it is below 20 parts per million (PPM) you will need to make your pond water more basic. To do this you will need to apply lime. Appling pulverized lime will increase your pH and help create a healthy environment for your fish to grow. To figure out how much lime is needed for your pond you will take a soil sample. This can be obtained by nailing a can to a wooden pool or by using a PVC pipe. Let the soil sit out in the sun to dry before putting it into a soil sample box to be submitted to Raleigh. If you have a weed or algae issue currently in your pond you should not apply fertilizer. Fertilizer will encourage weed growth and make it a larger problem. If a fertilizer application is warranted it is recommended to apply in the spring when water temperatures are between 60 and 65 degrees. Water soluble powders are usually the most economical fertilizer to apply to ponds.

If you have any other pond management questions, please call North Carolina Cooperative Extension- Lee County Center at 919-775-5624.

Jared Butler is the Agriculture Agent for North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Lee County.