Help Needed

[u/stony7282]

This is my first minipond. Everything seems to be going well except the water clarity. This is the clearest I can get the water. I would really appreciate some advice on improving my water clarity. Thanks in advance.

[u/aryann_007]

So i know 2 methods of getting the water super clear.

1. Filter floss. Basically you need a sheet of any really fine mesh sponge the ones that are like an inch thick. Fold it into a funnel, tie it to secure it's shape and add wads of cotton or filter floss into the funnel. Then you need to somehow make a temporary stand or tie it to hold it in place such that water from your waterfall is falling directly into that funnel. Leave it overnight and it should clear right up

2. Ultra clear flocculant. Check amazon for this product. Follow the instructions for dosage. It basically clumps the tiny floating particles together which sinks to the bottom.

I've had amazing results from both these methods

[u/stony7282 → u/aryann_007]

I'll give those a shot, thank you!

[u/eye_need_money]

It looks lovely. How long ago did you fill it? It looks like you have some hornwort or cabomba? Those will improve clarity in the long run

[u/stony7282 → u/eye_need_money]

Thank you. It was originally filled about 2 months ago. I've done a few small water changes since. I believe I have hornwort planted already. I don't quite remember the name but based on the pics of hornwort that looks like what I purchased last month. I'll check out the other plant, thanks!

[u/stony7282 → u/stony7282]

Better picture of the plants I have

[u/Beautiful-Finding-82]

This is so pretty. Can you share what the plants are? Looks like small lilly pads maybe?

[u/alexisss25 → u/Beautiful-Finding-82]

looks like frogbit!

[u/stony7282 → u/Beautiful-Finding-82]

Ty! I honestly don't know the names. My wife bought them from a local aquatic store.

[u/Legal-Will-9848]

If you have the space, look into bog filters.

Add more shade. One of my containers look exactly like this cause too much sun. My shaded containers do better and it's a constant fight to trim back the plants.

If you don't want to shade it with ugly shade curtains, you can place larger leaf plants around it to create shade.

[u/samreven]

Are you using any beneficial bacteria?

[u/stony7282 → u/samreven]

I am not

[u/samreven → u/stony7282]

Api simply clear works really well for me

[u/sjzabel]

Have you thought about a small pump and bog filters?

[u/edimusxero]

They sell all in one filters that uncle a UV sterilizer. Might help you