Local landscape design pros share experience with fish ponds Koi or other fish ponds are often used as centerpieces of landscape design and they can add a feeling of tranquility, vitality and relaxation to any outdoor space. When planning your landscape design there are several factors to consider if you want to feature a koi pond. Failing to account for the unique features of your space, the geographic region of your home and other external factors can lead to more headaches than relaxation from your new pond. Peer Landscaping is based in Fort Myers and we have been happily serving the landscaping needs of Southwest Florida for several needs. We use a combination of our know-how with state of the art technology to turn our clients’ vision into a reality. We have installed and planned landscape designs around koi ponds for many clients in the Fort Myers area, and over the years we have learned a few key points to consider when planning the perfect pond. Read on for a few of our best koi pond tips and things to remember when planning your landscaping project. Some people get lost in the details of landscaping the perfect path to their koi ponds, or are enamored with the seating arrangements or flora to be placed around the pond and they overlook a key part of the whole thing: the fish. You want your fish to grow, live in a healthy environment and help to keep the pond clean and there are important steps which must be taken to allow the fish to thrive. The most direct threat to the fish in any outdoor koi pond are predators. While you might not think about this since they seem to be in an isolated environment, these fish are still exposed to birds. There are several species of birds in Southeast Florida which thrive on marine life due to the area’s proximity to so much water, so filling your pond with fish which are commonly eaten by the area’s birds can be a recipe for disaster. We can make recommendations on which fish to populate your pond with, and/or ways to provide natural protection through the design itself. In addition to predatory birds, fish in ponds are in danger of overexposure to high temperatures. Part of every landscape design we draw up with a koi pond includes sufficient shade coverage from trees or shrubs to ensure the water remains at a temperature where the fish can thrive. Choosing to install a koi pond is not a passive addition. While they don’t require constant upkeep like most pets, the koi (or other type of fish you might choose) have unique feeding and cleanliness needs. Make sure you do your research prior to installation and understand the commitment necessary to ensure the health of your fish and the pond. For people who do decide to install a koi pond and heed these simple tips, their pond can be a place of relaxation and can add a lot of character to their outdoor space. If you are considering adding a koi pond, have additional questions or have any landscaping needs in Southwest Florida, don’t hesitate to contact us.