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Want to experience REAL value – Email us at sales@maxx- ex.com or just know more? Call Sales at 412.408.3447 PONDTRADE TMTM Volume 20 | Issue 2 March/April 2015 Serving Professionals in the Pond and Water Feature Industry 30 How to Upset Your Clients Do you love angry customers? Do you thrive on confrontation and miscommunication? Does your business need fewer paid invoices and more checks that come late — or not at all? If you answered “Yes,” turn to Page 46 30, where Michael Stone provides seven surefire ways to tank your pond business! But if you answered “No,” you need his must-read advice on how to avoid these common pond pitfalls. 34 Koromo & Goshiki LANGUAGE OF KOI At a glance, Koromo and Goshiki look like two completely different varieties. But these colorful fish have a fascinating shared ancestry, and at most koi shows they are categorized as one. Here, koi expert Taro Kodama shares the unique history of the koi with “clothes” and the koi with “five colors.” DEPARTMENTS 6 Upcoming Events Renaissance Understudy 37 59 Trade News McDonald’s, Carl’s Jr. and Del Taco have all stepped up their games by 61 Marketplace researching industry trends and adapting accordingly. Can you say the same for your pond or koi company? If not, turn to Page 37, where Eric 61 Advertisers’ Index Triplett shows why “keeping it fresh” is vital to the health of both your water and your business! COLUMNS 41 Whimsy in the Water Garden COVER STORY 7 Publisher’s Perspective 8 In 1988, Gerard Touhey arrived in America with $400 and no plan for the future. Today, he is a world-renowned pond creator whose beloved handiwork is scattered across the globe. In this intimate piece, the indefatigable Irishman tells the story of how he built his career from the ground up — and explains how you too can infuse your projects with personality and whimsy! FEATURES 46 You Don't Have to Mow Water! When Lloyd Lightsey first decided to build a pond in his yard, his sole Reflecting Experience POND CONSTRUCTION motivation was escaping the tedium of mowing the lawn. Over the next 8 40 years, that childish plan would evolve into an expansive career — and From whence does inspiration come? For Larry Carnes, there are two major a new identity! Here, The Pond Monster shares his humble beginnings as sources of inspiration when building waterfalls and watercourses: “head pond de-mucker” at Slocum Water Gardens and offers a touching Mother Nature and master designers! The president of Reflections glimpse of a life well-lived. Water Gardens explains the research, discipline and artistry required to create truly magnificent water features. 54 Placement, Flow and Fish 30 Get Your Feet Wet! Nothing keeps a pond clean and clear quite like a skimmer, and today’s 19 models are more efficient and complex than ever before. But are you using To beginners, entering the world of pond keeping may them to their full potential? On Page 54, pond pro Kent Wallace provides seem like an intimidating commitment. But it needn’t be; the technical details you need to ensure that you’re using the right skimmer with the right materials, you can start learning vital in the right place and in the right way. pond concepts (and building beautiful water features) immediately — without even touching a shovel! Here, Jamie Beyer of Midwest Waterscapes shows you how to use containers to dive headfirst into water gardening. 19 Take a Cue From Mother Nature 28 26 A great pond is far more than a hole in the ground and some water. Streams, rocks, plants, shelves … a naturalistic pond requires these elements and more, skillfully applied in the right proportions! In this informative overview, Aquascape construction manager Brian Helfrich walks 34 you step-by-step through the process of building the perfect pond.

4 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 5 Upcoming Events Publisher’s TM Perspective March 7 - 8 August 13 - 15 PONDTRADE Koi Club of San Diego - 28th Annual Koi IWGS Symposium Show & Water Garden Expo Water's Edge The POND Trade Mission Del Mar Fairgrounds Activity Center Lawrence, Kansas Staff San Diego, California www.iwgs.org an I get a big, heartfelt, “Yeah! It’s spring”? For those of us Publisher in cold-weather states, it can't come soon enough. This March 13 - 15 August 26 - 27 Lora Lee Gelles 888/356-9895 Central Florida Koi Show Holmes Farm Pond and Pet Trade Show issue marks the start of spring, and if you’re anything like [email protected] Cme, I know you’re ready to jump into the new season. Bring it on! International Palms Resort Bear Creek Mountain Resort Orlando, Florida Macungie, Pennsylvania I recently entered one of our articles into the annual ASBPE (American www.centralfloridakoishow.org 877/412-farm (3276) Editor Society of Business Publication Editors) awards contest. Each year they www.holmesfarm.com Peter Celauro choose articles and designs of excellence. As I was filling out the contest April 25 - 26 [email protected] 13th Annual Waterscape Weekend October 21 - 23 entry, I came upon the section that asks you to Garden Pond Expo Hardscapes and GIE+EXPO state the “mission and readership” of your maga- Advertising Sales Have you ever wanted to do something wonderful Lake County Fairgrounds Kentucky Exposition Center zine. I called upon my editor, Peter Celauro, to Crown Point, Indiana Louisville, Kentucky Lora Lee Gelles 888/356-9895 and inspiring? Something that truly makes a help me out with his fabulous writing skills, and www.illianagardenpond.org www.hardscapena.com [email protected] difference, but you missed the opportunity? www.gie-expo.com he delivered by cramming our ongoing mission May 5 - 7 Graphic Design into a nutshell: to shine in the life of a child. National Hardware Show November 7 - 12 Now is your chance Las Vegas Convention Center Pool | Spa | Patio Expo Gelles Graphics "At POND Trade, our mission is to ac- Las Vegas, Nevada Mandalay Bay Convention Center [email protected] tively grow the pond and water feature industry www.nationalhardwareshow.com Las Vegas, Nevada by providing actionable information that em- www.poolspapatio.com Accounts Receivable powers and inspires pond professionals. With August 5 - 8 Lois Spano Visit www.PondsForPeace.org PONDEMONIUM practical, application-oriented content, we aim November 11 - 12 [email protected] and do something significant! Q Center Irrigation Show to serve the industry directly by helping readers St. Charles, Illinois Long Beach Convention Center make informed decisions in their designs and Web Editor www.aquascapeinc.com/pondemonium Long Beach, California building projects. www.irrigation.org/IrrigationShow Grant Gerke [email protected] “POND Trade is written and read by pond Are you attending an event that you think others should know about? Are you hosting an experts and enthusiasts. From Japanese koi event and want more people to come? Send event info to [email protected]. Printer farmers to rock and boulder specialists; from outdoor lighting designers to Pond World Sutherland Printing aquatic botany Ph.D.s; from bloggers to business consultants to purveyors Distributing, LLC Montezuma, Iowa of pumps; these are the people who will shape the pond industry today and into the future. “When our readers pick up the newest issue of POND Trade, they know We have a Correction For your they’ll find tips, insights and inspiration straight from the industry’s best. It’s our Free Subscription job and our passion to make sure they never find anything less." We have a correction to the article by Jennifer Zuri in the November/December 2014 I truly think that says it all … especially the “empowers and inspires ▼ see our issue. The paragraph should have read: pond professionals” part. That's what I'm talking about! This magazine is website www.pondtrademag.com FOR and ABOUT you! Keep that in mind, and don’t be afraid to reach out. Top 100 - First Place Overall: TJB Inc. in Hamden, Connecticut. or call 708/873-1921 We welcome all your comments and suggestions. Top 20 Certified Aquascape Contractors - First Place: Premier Ponds in Burtonsville, Maryland. Well, pond experts and enthusiasts – dive in! We’ve got a lot of great Top 20 Certified Aquascape Contractor Retailers – First Place: TJB Inc. in Hamden Connecticut. content for you in this issue, starting with a fantastic feature about water- Contact Info shaping by Larry Carnes. He’ll teach you the ins and outs of creating natu- Wholesale to the Trade POND Trade Magazine, ISSN 1949-0585 is a trade POSTMASTER: Send address changes to POND Trade Magazine, POND Trade Mag­­­azine ralistic waterfalls and watercourses. • Quality Pond Products • Unbeatable Service publication of LG Publishing, Inc. Material is selected for its interest PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462 P.O. Box 2721 Not all of our pond content is instructional, however. If you’re a fan • Highly Experienced Staff © Lora Lee Gelles, 2015 to the koi, water feature and pond industries, and the publishers accept Orland Park, IL 60462 of history, check out Lloyd Lightsey’s hilarious and heartwarming account Superior product lines including: no responsibility for the accuracy of content. Reproduction Advertising Policies: LG Publishing, Inc. reserves the right to refuse to 708/873-1921 • FAX 760/418-4606 EasyPro • Alpine Corp. • Pondmaster rights by written permission only. of his youth at Slocum Water Gardens — complete with black and white publish any ad. Submission of an ad to LG Publishing does not constitute a [email protected] Aqua-One • Mars • Eco-Labs • Little Giant commitment by LG Publishing, Inc. to publish it. Publication of an ad does not photos! And on page 41, our cover story provides all the color you could ever is published bi-monthly, starting in January, BioSafe • Aqua Ultraviolet • ShoKoi POND Trade Magazine constitute an agreement for continued publication. LG Publishing, Inc. will not be hope for as Gerard Touhey shows you how to put some “whimsy” in your for $41.70 per year by LG Publishing, Inc., POND Trade Magazine, liable for failure to publish an ad as requested or for more than one incorrect See our catalog at PondWorldCO.com PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462. Qualified applicants may insertion of an ad. In the event of an error or omission in printing or publication pond. Between Lloyd’s jokes and Gerard’s Irish witticisms, I don’t think Call or email for a user name and password subscribe at no cost at www.pondtrademag.com. Postage is paid at of an ad, LG Publishing, Inc.’s liability shall be limited to an adjustment for www.pondtrademag.com we’ve ever packed so much personality into one issue! It’s just the thing to the cost of the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being Orland Park, IL and additional offices. For new subscriptions, additional 970-420-7277 cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the get you warmed up for another great season of water and wildlife. 2715 East Mulberry • Fort Collins, CO 80524 copies and address changes, please call 708/873-1921 or email correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall LG Publishing be liable for Fax: 970-224-3664 [email protected]. consequential damages of any kind. Happy PONDering! Email: [email protected]

6 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 Sept. 17, 2013 • Pond World • Pond Trade MagazinePOND 1/4 Trade vertical (3.625”Magazine x 4.875”) 7 Pond Construction

Reflecting Experience project. That requires personal discipline intently studying the art of naturalistic client, and my crew has maintained it ever Great watershaping … especially in tough times, when finding watershaping by studying waterfalls and since. All of us look back on this project one project at a time any opportunities to express yourself watercourses found in nature. Along with with a significant measure of pride. creatively at a high level might be few and naturally occurring inspiration, I examine far between. And it’s particularly true if, the work of the masters (including Idea Editing by Larry Carnes, figuring out how to mimic those relationships on-site. like me, you’ve only recently started your Anthony Archer-Wills) who have elevated The project came to us in the course Reflections Water Gardens Just as important is actually getting the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the field. professional career. their work to the level of fine art. of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show, t’s generally known that superior results in natu- To me, becoming a good or even a great watershaper To a large extent, I think, it’s all about This preparation paid off for me when where I designed and built an elaborate ralistic watershaping require a commitment both means you must have the desire to do something special being prepared when the time comes. I created the project pictured here. The garden display. These clients had called, Ito the study of natural geological processes and to and put forth your very best effort in each and every In my case, I’ve gotten myself ready by project was built for a landscape firm’s and we’d invited them to come visit us at 8 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 9 A crane moved and lifted As construction moved along, the the large feature stones existing grade became our shallow into place. The stones were shelf to meet the engineer’s plan. numbered and mapped out at the quarry.

Starting with a blank slate, contours were cut out. Then the fabric and liner were installed. the show to take a look at our handiwork. that would help blend the pond into its was situated in such a way that large stands bring variety to my pond-edge not a lot of rock material and a They were impressed and let us know they surrounding landscape. Across the water, of (mostly) spruce trees on an adjacent treatments and lend the setting smattering of old construction wanted to have something similar on a prop- we placed a waterfall that was to cascade property would serve as a visual backdrop. a more natural appearance. I’ve debris. Not taking any chances, erty where they were building a new home. into the pond’s deepest water. found that even if you do the we laid down an 8-ounce under- After some back and forth, we even- By the time everything was settled and From Concept to Reality rockwork well and manage to layment fabric to protect the tually landed the project. The landscape construction was to begin, a fairly complex While in many respects this was quite avoid the dreaded “string of 45-mil rubber liner — and in this firm designed the project’s original design had resolved itself down to a reason- a simple pond project, one detail of the pearls” look, things can still look case were able to cover the pond layout. Subsequently, I was tasked with ably straightforward watershape program work was pretty unusual in that we had to artificial if a pond is completely with a single, seamless piece. taking things from outline to fruition — but one that would involve approxi- work within a grading plan that had previ- surrounded by hard edges. So Next, we strategically placed — and, as usually happens in such tran- mately 80 tons of limestone, carefully ously been established to ensure proper lot in this project, the shallow area (and concealed) skimmer boxes sitions, the initial phase of my work selected and shipped from Missouri. This drainage. serves the dual purpose of creat- around the pond’s perimeter. One involved editing the design to reflect stone was to be placed with the utmost care One consequence of this was that we ing a convenient place to enter of them works only to circulate what could realistically be achieved on-site to create a setting that would be perfectly had to raise the water level of the pond and leave the water, while at the water and is plumbed to a return within the client’s budget. at home on the wooded property while still about six inches above grade. This meant same time helping to conjure a outlet hidden on the bottom of In my original design, for example, making a strong visual statement. more natural appearance. the pond. The other two filter the site was to include a pond large and As I moved along, I applied water through biofall units we deep enough for swimming, with a large I’ve found that even if you do the rockwork well and not only the aesthetic lessons I placed behind the waterfall struc- rock formation and waterfall composi- manage to avoid the dreaded “string of pearls” look, learned from studying nature ture. (We opted for this circulation and master water gardeners, but approach primarily because we tion serving as a primary focus. After a few things can still look artificial if a pond is completely iterations of this basic scheme, we eventu- also the practical ones I picked didn’t have enough room to install ally agreed on a simpler program that was surrounded by hard edges. up through the years. The pond the constructed wetlands needed scaled back a bit to fit more easily within itself, for example, is configured for a large biofiltration area.) the setting. Now the pond and waterfall The property itself is fairly large: a in turn that we had to build a small retain- using the “shelf design” method In all, the system carries about were to occupy an amorphous area of 1.5-acre parcel in an upscale Chicago- ing wall around a portion of the pond’s commonly used on many proj- 12,000 gallons of water. There’s about 50 by 50 feet. area neighborhood. About half the space, downslope edge and then conceal it ects. As we gradually removed the ample freeboard in the pond to As we moved forward, we found ways however, was taken up by the new house, completely with soil and our edge treat- top few inches of soil to establish contain the water when the circu- to keep the koi on one side of the pond which is why scale had become such an issue ments. This worked out well in practical the level of the primary shelves, lation system is off, but if there’s and create a beautiful planting area in the and we had to pare back the original design terms, as we made this assembly part of the we used the spoils here and from a heavy storm that causes the other portion. The original plan’s grotto, to make things fit comfortably in the space. beach entrance/shallow area and used it for the pond’s inner contours to system to overflow, water flows to We started our work on-site by contour- build a four-foot-tall berm on a natural-looking feature that will however, was set aside as a matter of scale placement of emergent plants and creation The major construction is completed (top photo), and the pond gets filled as well as budget and gave way to a beach ing the yard and creating a large berm of a small wetland space. the side opposite the beach entry. serve as a temporary waterfall and while working on edge treatments. The stepped stream/waterfall (above) entry and shallows for the emergent plants behind the waterfall. Fortunately, this area It also worked with my usual desire to The soil was mostly clay, with direct the water to an engineered looks beautiful after planting.

10 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 11 swale that runs through the property. As a bonus, the natural shapes of the Certainly, there was some adjusting Basically, this functional overflow area stones we acquired made it relatively easy and improvising on-site, but my process looks like a dry creek bed. to assemble the rocks in such a way that of visualization paid off in a big way once they seemed to be single formations — as we started placing the stone. With very few Stacking Stone though they’d been there forever and had exceptions, the pieces of the puzzle came As was suggested above, the core together in accordance with what A combination of water lilies of the project had to do with stone and sweetflag provides color to I’d imagined — and I’m truly selection and placement. Some the shallow side of the pond. convinced that I set the table for might question going all the way to an installation process that went Missouri to get it, as we have good smoothly and didn’t require supplies of limestone both in Illinois much tinkering along the way. and in nearby Wisconsin. But in As it turns out, the seams neither case do the nearby sources between stones are distinctly have stone with the physical features difficult to read. As I had hoped, or the visual character we wanted. it looks like a single, large First, the Missouri stone has formation fractured through the wonderfully complex surface grada- centuries by freeze/thaw cycles tions, including patches of lichen, and softened by the elements for obvious wind-and-water erosion generations untold. The pieces and richly colored veins. Also, unlike local only been exposed by wind and rain. fit together so well, in fact, that it’s all dry material that comes out of the ground as While at the quarry, I began the process stacked; no concrete is used anywhere in sheets, the Missouri limestone comes out of visualizing how everything would come the pond. We then pulled the liner up in bold, block-like chunks that have almost together on-site. In fact, I numbered key behind the stones and locked the stones in sculptural shapes. This characteristic alone pieces as a guide, thinking about how stria- place with careful backfilling. would save us the need to stack up layer tions and color patterns would align and We went to great pains to conceal the upon layer of local stone to achieve the ways in which I could achieve a convincingly water’s source — in this case, two units required elevations. “monolithic” appearance. hidden at the top of the waterfall. In one

March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 13 A Green Thumb is Good. A Green Brain is Better. What the Pros use!

The stone arrived with a few plants growing The large waterfall stones offered us lots of clefts and in odd places, conveying the appearance of irregularities to work with, setting up the various being on the site originally. multi-level effects that bring a natural air to the setting.

case, the flow revealed a fissure in one of the the quarry, now rose up about three feet So, I ordered an extra truckload of main stone pieces that had become filled above the pond’s level. flatter pieces (from 1.5 to two feet thick) with soil. The water flushed the fissure and It was at this point that we ran into and carefully removed the waterfall stones created an unexpected rivulet of water that the need to make a major adjustment. As and worked them under the structure looks absolutely and naturally perfect. things developed and the homeowners and rebuilt the waterfall and surround- We exploited other fissures in the stone could actually see what they were getting, ing formation. Again, given the naturally to guide flows and break up any monoto- they decided that they wanted the water- flat profiles of the stone pieces, it’s nearly nous sort of sheeting effects. As we moved fall to make a more dramatic statement impossible to tell that we added even an along, we also extended the look of the and asked us to add a couple feet to its inch to the height of the formation. Protect ponds with GreenClean, falls down into the pond itself, placing elevation. This and most everything else we did smaller pieces of stone in the water, and Far from being a problem, this actually on-site revolved around a single touch- the leader in algae control. then around the sides and trailing off into made me happy because, thanks to the stone: it was our desire in everything we Our complete line offers cohesive and the landscape. way the stone was fitting into the scene, did to make our work appear as though we could easily make the structure taller the pond and its surroundings had been effective solutions for algae control Blending In without compromising its natural look. there long before people came along and and prevention. All was going nicely at this point. The In fact, I saw right away that pushing the encroached upon the space. waterfall, made using a single run of taller falls up to five feet would create a substan- To manage such an effect, I applied pieces we’d selected for the purpose at tially more dramatic look. a variety of lessons I’ve learned through Easy to Use GreenClean’s superior formula was designed to keep water healthy without heavy metals. Proven With easy-to-follow directions GreenClean "I have used this product in my Koi pond for the works on contact so you can experience past year with excellent results. It is much better immediate results. than several other similar products that I have previously used." Organic "I have never found anything that works even GreenClean is EPA approved and USDA NOP close to GreenClean. I am sold for life!" (National Organic Program) compliant. It can "I have used this product for 5 years and we be used around people, pets and wildlife. absolutely love it. Works very well and not harmful to the fish and keeps the pond free of Made in the USA stringing algae." We proudly manufacture our products at state of the art facilities in the United States. 14 POND Trade Magazine 1.888.273.3088 • www.biosafe.netpondtrademag.com Various aquatic and marginal plantings are allowed to naturalize. thing ponder the next BIG think about your business www.ponderyourbusiness.com

TT-SERIES PUMPS Software Management for your Pond or Landscaping Business Starting at $49.99/month The plantings blend from land to water and the perimeter is disguised, avoiding all bare rock edges. Pond and landscaping the years: steps such as backfilling the soil make small adjustments as you go. businesses struggle with behind the rocks along or near the edges to In addition, I see client education as a business management complete the impression that the stones are key factor, both in managing expectations because the software tools part of a natural outcropping, for example. and in encouraging them to think in natu- This simple detail enabled us to use terres- ralistic terms. If they’re fully engaged on available to trial plantings in such a way that they appear that second level (as these clients were), them are to be climbing over the stone to reach into then they’ll be more likely to make wise expensive, the water; on the flip side, it makes it appear decisions about plantings — or, say, about complicated as though the aquatic plantings are pushing revising the elevation of a waterfall — that and don’t to reach beyond the water and fuse them- make sense with respect to the overall quite fit their selves with the rockwork and soil. design. business Ultimately, it’s all about obscuring The satisfaction I find here comes from model or boundaries and leaving the observer guess- the fact that I was able to apply what I’ve method of ing about where the body of water stops and learned about nature and the practicalities operation. the landscape begins. As I see it, this is where of construction ... and from the certain Ponder is a good planning and visualizing meet impro- knowledge that, as time passes and the software solution that’s easy visation. You have to look at nature enough landscape develops around the pond and to use and accessible to develop an intuitive feel, but at the same waterfall, the impressions we wanted to time, you need to implement deliberate make will only become more convincing anywhere over the Internet using a computer, a handheld I’ve had a chance to strategies to piece everything together and and beautiful as time goes by. a TT-SERIES PUMPS FEATURE: device such as an iPad or a show off the sample to several of smartphone. • Large threaded inlet and outlet for less restriction and greater flows our more knowledgeable customers • Quarter-turn volute provides access to impeller without the use of tools & the feedback on size, features & that wonderful, friendly, tool-less ability About the Author Ponder manages: • Heavy-duty pre-filter with large openings and increased surface area to get into & maintain these pumps Larry Carnes is the president of Reflections Calendar resists clogging has been overwhelmingly positive. Water Gardens in West Dundee, Illinois. Larry began Billing Also, the solids handling ability is a his career as a student of art and developed an inter- Construction Contracts • Three vane hybrid impeller improves flows and passes solids easily real bonus. est in landscaping. He worked for several companies, Service Jobs Employees - Deb Spencer gaining knowledge in tree care, patio design and Retail Sales Labor Hours • Energy efficient asynchronous motor is up to 30% more efficient than Water’s Edge, Kansas installation and landscape architecture. He renders Email Marketing Profits the competition concepts for his clients that are pieces of art as much as they are working designs. After assisting a pond builder Automated Notifications WILL DELIVER UP TO 9,000 GPH in creating a unique in-ground pond/pool for his family, Larry’s landscaping interest AT THE BEST EFFICIENCY turned to water features. Larry has taken Genesis 3 courses with Anthony Archer-Wills, A software solution by IN THE INDUSTRY learning to design and create natural-looking ponds and water features. Reflections Water Gardens focuses on high-end residential and commercial projects with naturalistic ATLANTIC WATER GARDENS | 4494 ORCHARD STREET | MANTUA, OHIO 44255 | (P) 330-274-8317 (F) 330-274-8790 watershaping. To learn more, visit reflectionswatergardens.com. (TOLL FREE) 1-877-80PONDS | [email protected] | WWW.ATLANTICWATERGARDENS.COM

March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 17 Container Gardens

In this close-up of the top of a jar, Helvola is the hardy water lily. Frog-bit and Salvinia are the small floaties. The purple flower is a terrestrial plant called blue mist spirea. Get Your Feet Wet! Use containers to learn basic pond concepts

by Jamie Beyer, most people really enjoy. The plants can Midwest Waterscapes attain this richness due to their access to an unlimited amount of water. here is a style of water feature for almost every garden, no matter Choosing Containers how small. All a person needs is Choosing a container is the first and most Tsome space outside that receives sun most important consideration. Anything that is of the day. But how do you build a water glass, plastic, ceramic or sealed wood could garden without a hole in the ground? Just work. Of course, if the container has holes, find a container! the holes will need to be sealed. A container Even large landscapes will benefit from that does not have holes is even better. the addition of container water gardens. A There are containers made just for use water garden in a container is one of the as water gardens. Most of these are thick easiest types of water features to create — plastic or pottery that is heavily glazed on and can be very satisfying. We will want both the inside and outside. I have heard to keep this type of water feature simple, that these heavily glazed pots are called which we’ll discuss later. And they’re “jars.” They can be pricey, but are very versatile; they can stand on their own or decorative. Containers glazed just on the be placed on top of a table. For many, this outside are commonly available and they less-permanent type of water garden can will work fine if properly sealed. be the first introduction to the world of In fact, most people do choose to use a aquatic plants. The lushness and tropical container designed for other purposes. Good look of aquatic plants has an appeal that examples of interesting containers are urns, A Dwarf Papyrus standing among Water Lettuce.

March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 19 crocks, half whiskey barrels (a plastic liner examples of floaties are Water Hyacinths, The most difficult aspect of using marginal placed inside will seal it, if necessary), and Salvinia, Azolla and Floating Heart. plants in containers is getting the plant at even glass pie dishes. Try to avoid anything Since most of these containers do not have the proper water level. Most marginals look made of metal. Of course, steel contain- much fish excrement and/or decaying organic and do the best with only an inch or two of ers can rust. New galvanized containers matter for plant uptake, we need to add and any copper container can be toxic to nutrients. Liquid aquatic plant fertilizer life, although old galvanizing that has been can be added to the container to keep dulled with weathering should be fairly safe. these plants looking good. Containers as small as a quart of water work Potted plants also work well. Two well, but may only hold one kind of float- varieties of water lilies, Helvola and ing aquatic plant. These small containers do Indiana, are very small, hardy variet- require more attention due to the need to ies that I like because they stay small add water more frequently. and are very floriferous. Lotuses of various sizes can be used. A variety of Picking Plants lotus called “small bowl” is suitable for Displaying beautiful aquatic plants is the smaller containers, and the larger the reason the container is set up, so what varieties of lotus can be devoted to a types of plants work best? Almost any kind container all by themselves. Water lilies and Even really small containers work easily for aquatic plants. This frog container holds approximately 1.5 cups of water. of floating plants are excellent for contain- most lotuses can safely be placed directly on Since it is so small, water needs to be added every day. ers — especially the small “floaties,” like my the bottom of the container. Their leaves Water Lettuce and Salvinia work well in this situation. good friend, Deb Spencer, calls them. They will be able to reach the surface. water over their crown (over the top of their do not require being planted in a pot and Marginal plants like Cannas, miniature pot). Of course, the plant pot needs to be they obtain 100 percent of their nutrients cattail and Taros are also excellent candidates completely immersed in the container; other- from the water. They are easy to plant, too for containers because they add the vertical wise, with the pot showing, you will have a — just toss them into the container! Good element and give a very lush, tropical look. faux pas. Very tacky. To get the plant at the

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March/AprilReliablility_Ad_HlfPg_WGN_01.26.15.indd 2015 1 POND Trade Magazine1/26/15 1:49 PM21 Easy Care also absolutely necessary for the container to be level. If it is not level, it will not The ease of maintenance is the best part of a water feature without a water look good. The uneven water level in the pump. Keep it filled and make sure to add container will highlight the unevenness of chlorine remover if adding more than an the container. inch or two of treated water at a time. If Debris that may fall into the water you are just topping it off, then the chlo- will need to be kept to a minimum. Tree rine remover is not necessary. The chlorine leaves or decaying water plant leaves need dissipates quickly and is diluted in the rest to be removed. A lot of decaying organic of the volume of the container. You will matter or uneaten fish food can cause the need to add chlorine remover when first water to have a green, single-celled, free- filling the container or when adding a lot floating algae bloom. So, feed the fish only of water at once. a very small amount. They will also supple- Place the container in a spot that is “up ment their diet with natural foods. When close and personal,” as I like to say, for feeding, all the food should be gone in less easy viewing. On a deck, next to a sitting than a minute. Some fish owners will not bench, on either side of a door or along a feed their fish anything, but if you do feed path are ideal places. The container needs them they will be friendlier. You are the to have direct sun for at least 50 percent of giver of food and they will love you and These companion jars (containers) have Helvola hardy the available daylight for the plants to do want to be close to you when you peer into water lily in them. The small jar holds about 1 gallon of water and the larger one holds about 2.5 gallons. well. You will get full potential of blooms the water. If you don’t feed them then you from the lilies, along with the lush, tropi- will hardly ever see them because then you are a “predator” to them. right depth, I recommend using a “stand” These pots are commonly available from cal foliage. If given less sun, the blooming This relatively small container is plastic but has the under the plant pot. I like to use fired bricks water gardening retailers. Remember, a wide plants will not have as many blooms. Yes, Trim the plants back if they overgrow “terra cotta” look. Red-stemmed Thalia is a fast grower, the container — give excess plants to especially when nutrients are added to the container (not concrete since it will alter the chemistry pot should be used fo rtall, marginal plants you may get a couple of blooms, but the every week. Here, shepherd’s hooks are holding onto of the water) or small, black plastic storage to keep the plants stable in windy condi- plants will be more “leggy” as well. It is friends or add them to the compost pile. the container to keep it from tipping over in the wind. crates that can be cut to the right height if tions. Narrow, deep plant pots are not a needed. Wind can create problems with good choice for aquatic plants. Most terres- upright plants, so I also recommend using trial plant pots are the narrow and deep style. wide plant pots for tall plants. They can work, but are not the best choice. Water Lettuce gives a good anchor to the Pots with holes can be used, but do cover the marginal Green Taro. Variety is Key holes with landscape fabric to retain the soil. choose to not add fish, then you will want to The most important aspect of using Use regular topsoil, to which aquatic plant add Mosquito Bits or Mosquito Dunks to the fertilizer tablets have been added, as a plant- aquatic plants in containers is to include two water. These floating wafers contain bacteria ing medium. Do not use potting soil, which or three different forms so that the container that will kill many kinds of aquatic larvae, can have additives that float or can cause has balance and interest. This is just plain including mosquito larvae. The water is still good garden design. Be sure to include an anaerobic conditions underwater. After the plant is planted in its pot, cover the rest of safe for pets, people and any other life. aquatic plant that has leaves that float directly Normally, I would not add a water pump. on the surface, like a water lily. Then add the top of the pot with a one-inch layer of pea gravel to keep the soil in the pot. The pump is not necessary to keep the water an upright marginal plant, like a miniature fresh as long as we have the plants, which are cattail. Finally, you can add a floating plant, critical in keeping the water fresh. Of course, like Water Lettuce. Containers with only Livening Things Up the reason we are setting up the container in one plant can also look great, depending In containers that have a volume of 15 the first place is to display aquatic plants. You on the container and the plants. Miniature gallons or more, it’s fun to add a couple of can add a pump, but most water plants do cattail in an old-fashioned crock looks very goldfish that you can purchase for only a not do well when water is constantly splash- STILL #1 nice, as both the crock and the cattail have dollar or two. As long as you only add one PONDS, BIRDBATHS & FOUNTAINS upright forms. A lotus in a container that is or two small fish (one inch or so) in this ing over the upper surface of their leaves. So buried in the landscape can look magical ... size container, you do not need to aerate if a water pump is added, then a much larger like a miniature pond. the water. The plants are critical in keeping container should be used so that plants can be All but the floating plants should be the water fresh and aerated enough for this kept away from the splashing water. Adding a planted in individual pots placed within kind of fish population. These fish will eat all pump to create the sound of water is appeal- the container. Use the style of pots without mosquito larvae, as well as other insects that ing, but when plants are present it is more www.MicrobeLift.com holes; they will not leak soil into the water. may show up. In smaller containers, or if you appropriate for larger features. Providing Aquatic Solutions Since 1976

EL_15002_AD_Microbe-Lift_Pond Trade HALF PAGE.indd 1 1/19/15 6:11 PM 22 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 23 Adding Mosquito Dunks into small water feature containers is an easy way to kill all mosquito larvae. If fish are in the containers, then Bassinger Fisheries adding these doughnut-like dunks is not necessary. Koi & Goldfish Farm

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design considerations that are based on the entire pond. The large rocks look large from the pond, which will help make a by Brian Helfrich, desired size of the pond. because of the (relatively) small rocks that natural transition from the pond to the Aquascape Inc. surround them. If the entire pond is filled other landscaping. If this method is used, Large Ponds with large rocks, things will look out of simply have the water flow back to the ith today’s busy schedules When designing large ponds, usage proportion. The same goes for using only main pond as a stream or waterfall. and the country’s slowly needs to be considered. Why is your small rocks. The best ratio is 1:2:1 (1 rebounding economy, customer interested in such a large pond? part small, 2 parts medium, 1 part large). Skimming the Surface Wmore people are yearning to create Does he dream of lakefront property? Lots However, your rocks along edges should You’ll also want to make sure that outdoor living spaces that help them of fish? Swimming? Keeping in scale with vary from that 1:2:1 ratio with other rocks there’s enough room to place your skimmer unwind, de-stress and reconnect with the property? A few other that are specifically set to entice people to their families and nature. things need to be consid- Backyards around the country ered when you’re designing Take a Cue from are being transformed into true para- a larger pond. Remember, dises, often with a focus on outdoor the only difference is in other entertaining. And the single outdoor the size of the project. element that creates the highest The process is basically the sensory experience is a water feature. same; the components are Not only can you see it and feel its just larger or more numerous. transformative powers, but you can MHow to hear the water running from both Nature Smaller Ponds dream pond inside and outside the house! The design your customer's sound of water draws you outside Building smaller-than-average ponds with its magnetic qualities, luring can be challenging because everything has them. Sizes of rock are equally as impor- on the end of the pond. Skimmers are children as well as adults to enjoy and to be squeezed into a much smaller space. tant as placement. Avoid the dreaded neck- essential in drawing in surface debris and explore more of what it has to offer. Skimmers and biological filters are still lace look (a ring of pearls). Designing your customers’ dream used in the small pond, and a waterfall is keeping it from decomposing and settling on the bottom of the pond, producing pond should take into consideration still built to provide aeration. Since the Planting the relaxation and enjoyment they ponds are smaller and therefore contain noxious gasses. Along those same lines, want to experience from the water less space, the placement of each compo- The next thing is planting the pond. leave some room for the waterfalls, which feature. Bring the feature up close to nent needs to be carefully planned. Make sure you leave enough room for should be kept in scale with the size of the the house so they can hear the water plenty of aquatic plants, as they not only project. Thus, larger boulders and berms when the windows are open. Ponds The Edge Treatment help naturalize the pond, but they also play need to be created. a huge role in keeping the pond healthy should have interactive areas for One of the most important parts of pond by removing excess nutrients. Don’t forget Designing Your Stream feeding fish and dangling feet in the design is the edge, and it’s important to tran- about the option of plant pockets spaced water. But above all, the pond should sition naturally into the surrounding land- This is most people’s favorite part of the throughout your pond so that pots can be work with Mother Nature and look as scape. There are several different ways to treat project, and it provides the greatest interest hidden and plants have somewhere to root. natural in its setting as possible. the edges of a large pond, but the common and interaction. Have your customer help goal is always to hide the liner and create a to decide on the twists and turns. Streams The Shape of the Design transition from the pond to the terrestrial Rock On! are highly versatile, and they create nature’s Let’s start with the shape. Using areas of the property. Be sure to leave plenty Rocks and gravel play a critical role in music as they change gradients and cross the irregular flowing lines is critical in of room for landscaping. I love when you an ecosystem pond by housing beneficial landscape. Streams can be followed by path- the planning stages. Homes, drive- can’t tell where water ends and land begins bacteria, and they’re a great way to protect ways and traversed with stepping-stones and ways, patios and decks are just a few because surrounding landscape cascades over your liner from UV light. bridges. Leave plenty of room for aquatic plants which of the items intertwined with a water the edges of the pond and stream. Stones can be worked into the pond’s Streams are fairly easy to build, but can help naturalize the pond and make it look like it’s always been part of the landscaping. garden design. Ponds vary greatly in On large projects, the perimeter stones perimeter, creating a huge planting area. become very difficult if a few rules aren’t shape and size, and there are many are typically larger, but not around the They can also be located further away followed. When designing streams, the

26 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 27 Use a variety of stone sizes around the perimeter of the pond to make it look natural and provide the greatest aesthetic appeal. main thing to look for is elevation changes the water. Interactive water features will are more pond-like, allowing fish to swim that can work for or against you. Elevations get the greatest responses because they’re up into them, while shallow streams are Looking for working for you will have the slope coming fun. We’re all drawn to water for many fast-moving and produce beautiful sounds. toward the viewing area. You can simply different reasons. A winding stream will give you the great- Exciting carve out the hillside to create a natural est shoreline for your buck. Combining a area for a watercourse. Be sure the stream The Benefits of the Stream long stream with a pond is the best scenario. New Products traverses across the slope to increase the The shoreline is where everything And don’t forget about the filtration and oxygenation of the water. Crashing falls will to Sell? add life-giving oxygen to the anoxic pond depths. And larger projects should always have a stream for this purpose alone.

Building Shelves Into Your Pond There are several reasons for building Considering the Surroundings of any size. You should always know what shelves into each and every pond: your customers want before you start Always bring a portion of the project Creating ledges allows easy digging. Then you can build off their ideas, Safety – right up to viewing areas such as a deck or and you’ll give them the pond they’ve access in and out of the pond for mainte- patio. This is extremely easy to do, and it’ll nance. This is much better than the tradi- only complement the present structures. always wanted. a tional sharp dropoff in which someone can In cold areas, leave a soil buffer to allow slip and get injured trying to get in and out. for some expansion near paver or flagstone Stability – Terracing is much more patios or walkways so the base does not stable and it reduces the risk of the walls collapse into the pond. Decks are easy to About the Author collapsing into the pond. work into the pond design because they Brian Helfrich Pondscaping – Shelves create areas for can be cantilevered over the water, giving is the construc- aquatic plants. Aeration them a dock-like feeling. tion manager for and Pond Dealers Maintenance Aesthetics – The shelves create interest A complete environment can also be Aquascape Inc. He’s Products on the pond’s bottom as well as giving it a built around a simple pond. Building new given hundreds of Wanted! 2300 South Old Missouri Road, Springdale AR 72764 • 1-866-471-1614 (T more naturalistic appearance. Outdoor Water Solutions, Inc. hardscapes can help create the perfect spot pond construction www.outdoorwatersolutions.com oll Free) • 1-479-756-1614 Efficiency – Shelves create a more effi- and the ultimate exterior living space, classes and seminars cient utilization of materials and installa- complete with a pond and a seating area across the country and • Full Line of Wind, Solar tion practices because it’s easier to build a alongside. It will complement the perfect is considered to be one of the premier and Electric Aeration waterfall builders in the nation. Brian’s series of small walls over one large one. planting balance. Once you install a pond, Systems. pond designs have been featured in Accessibility – Shelves provide ease of it’s much easier to gain future work from numerous publications, including Better • Systems for both LARGE accessibility to areas of the pond. that same customer. Homes and Gardens special interest & SMALL ponds! If you’re just getting started with water publications and Nature’s Garden. Human Interactions garden installation, or even if you’re an old Brian was a contributing author for If nobody is around to hear, see or pro, it is important to keep these design "The Pond Builder’s Bible," published interact with a water feature, it might as elements in mind when designing a pond by Aquascape Inc. well not exist. Ponds and streams need to be designed with people in mind. Take Terrestial plants near the pond help transition the water garden into the surrounding landscape. Place advantage of human nature and cater to taller plants in back and shorter plants in front. Increase the shoreline of a pond by including a meandering stream. Be sure to add marginal plants to your customer’s needs and wants. It may soften the edges and provide additional filtration. be as simple as aiming a waterfall toward the master bedroom window, or placing a viewing area and exposure, and to create a happens. The greater this area, the greater bench in the right spot. One important tip: more natural-looking streambed. the enjoyment you’ll get from your feature. do not put the pond in a low-lying spot Views from the home and surrounding The shoreline is where the marginal plants of the yard that already gathers water, no Outdoor Water Solutions seating areas are always targeted first when interact with the terrestrial plantings and matter how convenient it seems. Allowing Springdale, AR 72764 designing streams and falls. If the budget where we feed fish, and it’s the path we “outside” water to seep into a pond could 1-866-471-1614 allows, start the stream far enough away follow during walks. bring in nutrients that could cause exces- [email protected] from the viewing areas so people are drawn So how do we increase this shoreline in sive algae blooms or other adverse circum- www.outdoorwatersolutions.com into the landscape to explore the source of a small space? With streams. Deep streams stances for your pond and fish.

28 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 29 Sound Advice client is upset about the price. After all, And the last — but one of the great- didn’t the contractor do everything the est — mistakes that can be made is not client requested? writing detailed contracts for your jobs. Clients don’t know what things cost. I took a call last week from a contractor About the Author Frankly, most contractors don’t either, asking how to deal with an owner who is Michael Stone has used his until they sit with pencil and paper and refusing to pay overhead and profit on a experience to help How to Upset Your Clients estimate it. Before making any changes on job his company completed over a year thousands of general a project, estimate the cost, write a change ago. The amount due is over $100,000. contractors, new home work order, get it signed and have it paid I asked the contractor about his payment builders, remodelers and Seven ways to cause problems for your business before the additional work is done. That schedule and he said, “We don’t have specialty contractors build way, there are no surprises. a written contract, but I do have XX stronger, more profitable number of emails from the owner telling businesses. Michael is by Michael Stone, many happy (and paying) clients! on time. If you’re going to be late, call to the author of “Markup & 6) Not Enforcing Punch List us to do the work.” He then told me that let the person know why and to tell him Profit; A Contractor’s Guide Revisited” Markup & Profit his attorney was working on the problem. 1) Not Returning Phone Calls or her when you will arrive. Procedures and “Profitable Sales, A Contractor’s This is a major complaint. It’s not Have you ever gone to collect your I asked if his attorney specialized in Guide” and has taught business hen your clients are upset, two unique to contractors, but it’s part of our final check only to find blue tape or construction law, he said, “No, he’s a management, sales and/or estimating things can happen: you don’t 3) Not Building the Job According reputation and that’s not good. to the Contract yellow Post-it notes stuck to everything personal friend.” classes. Michael also provides make the sale, and you don’t the client isn’t happy about? There’s It is the little things in this business. coaching and consulting services. getW paid. And while there are plenty of ways It’s not good when a potential client What I see in some arbitrations is a an outline on how to handle the punch If they don’t get done, or aren’t done Mark has an entire section of his blog to upset your client, these seven are among can’t get a contractor to call him about situation where the contractor discovered list in our book, "Markup and Profit; A properly, they’ll eat your profit quickly. focused on Employee Issues. You can the most common. Avoid these disastrous a project. It’s even worse after the sale is at some point that he underestimated the Contractor’s Guide Revisited". If you Do them right and you will be paid on find it at www.markupandprofit.com/ mistakes to ensure that your business enjoys made. If your client has a question, or isn’t costs of a job. He’s about to lose money, so blog/employee-issues. sure about something, or simply doesn’t he goes into damage control mode to try to follow the procedure in our book, this time and in full. a like what is going on in her home or figure out ways to cut the cost of the job. won’t happen to you. For more information, visit www.mark- www.markupandprofit.com building, the best way to turn her concern Obviously there are all kinds of ways upandprofit.com/newsletter/things-cause- [email protected], into a full-fledged fight is to ignore her. to cut cost, but most of them result in 7) Not Writing Contracts problems-or-how-upset-your-clients. 888/944 - 0044. Calls from potential and existing clients clients not getting the job they wanted or should go to the top of your to-do were expecting. That’s a surefire way to list. The time upset a client. spent dealing with their 4) Not Building the Job According questions to the Plans is far less I can’t tell you how many times I have than the seen this exact scenario happen on jobs. time spent Someone fails to look at the plans, or cleaning up willingly ignores the plans and decides to the messes you build the job the way he thinks it’ll look make when you best. Or, he finds an error on the plans ignore them. and instead of checking with the owner/ architect/designer/whoever drew the 2) Not Showing plans, he attempts to fix the problem on Up On Time for his own. Bad idea — and one that’s guar- Appointments anteed to get you in trouble. Consider every appointment you make 5) Not Writing Additional Work a promise to the person Orders you’re supposed to meet. This is one of the major reasons that When you show up late, contractors go out of business. The client you’re breaking your requests a change and the contractor promise. That’s no way to goes ahead with the change. At the end start a relationship. of the job, the contractor compiles all When you set an the changes on one change work order. appointment, be there — And then the contractor wonders why the

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Visit our website to view our 2015 catalogs: www.easypropondproducts.com/catalogs Language of Koi Photo 5: Ideal Ai condiltion popular one is Kuro Goshiki (as seen in whole piece of art, having perfect Ai on the Photo 1). When they are born, they may entire Hi plates is almost impossible. So just look like a regular Goshiki. As they although this koi has some weak points, she mature, the Asagi ground turns into a is very beautiful and valuable. Photo 1: A new complete black, leaving the Hi bright, neon variety of Goshiki Budo goromo does not really have Ai, red. Because the contrast of the red and as its Hi is mostly covered with indigo and Koromo black is so beautiful and striking, they are has become purple. So the key is how well not only popular but also a regular show- the Hi is covered and looks even. The Budo winner. At the All Japan Koi Show, they goromo in Photo 4 is a good example. sometimes win over Gosanke. & 2) Kohaku pattern If you like Kuro Goshiki, please make sure you check the bloodline. Goshiki has Because Ai appearance is the number Goshiki one priority in this variety, they do not Goshiki Sanke and Goshiki Showa as well. necessarily have to have an excellent Kohaku Shared ancestry, different looks Appreciating Koromo and pattern. But good a Kohaku pattern is Goshiki always an additional plus to this variety. Although Koromo and Goshiki share When appreciating Goshiki, we need to by Taro Kodama, develops Asagi scales similar roots, they have developed differ- pay attention to the following: Kodama Koi Farm mainly on Shiroji (white ently, so the appreciation points are a little 1) Asagi ground condition ground). different. This condition can vary. Some may be oromo and Goshiki are two separate koi vari- When appreciating Koromo, we need to very light, especially when they are young. eties, but at almost all the koi shows, they Clothes and Five pay attention to the following: Some may be black like Kuro Goshiki. But it is are categorized as one. At a glance, they Colors 1) Ai appearance important that the ground condition is consis- Kmay look like completely different varieties. Their Ai means indigo. Koromo in Japanese tent all the way. Some Goshiki may develop Photo 2: The old version of Goshiki roots, however, are the same: Asagi and Kohaku. means clothes, so you The condition of the Ai on Hi like Koromo. It is OK if it devel- Because the Goshiki variety has advanced so have some idea why they Ai appearance on Hi is ops beautifully. Breeders are trying to remove much (as you can see in photo 1, above right the life of this variety. are called Koromo: they any Ai development from the Hi because the photo), this shared ancestry may be hard to Ai condition as seen look as if they are wearing contrast is more beautiful that way. believe. However, if you look at the old clothes! Goshiki means five in Photo 5 (above, 2) Clean Hi version of Goshiki (as seen in Photo 2, colors, and it may be hard to right) is ideal … but Because the skin ground of Goshiki on the opposing page), you can see a understand the roots of the name. Goshiki was origi- it is very difficult to tends to become dark or black, clean Hi is lot of similarity. Simply speak- nally developed by crossing Sanke and Goshiki. Goshiki find this condition ing, Goshiki and Koromo both Sanke was the first version of this variety (see Photo 3, on every part of the critical. The cleaner it is, the more beautiful develop Asagi scales on a page 36.) So there were five colors: red, the black and Hi plates. In the the contrast will become. Kohaku body. white of Sanke, and the blue and indigo of Asagi. Now photo, her left 3) Kohaku pattern The difference between you see how they got the name of Goshiki, or five colors. shoulder has less This is the same as Koromo. the two is that Koromo Koromo now is a general category name of several Ai. Her right When I joined this industry, I develops Asagi scales different varieties. You have heard of Ai goromo, Budo shoulder has never felt Goshiki was beautiful, nor only on areas of Hi goromo and Sumi goromo. (In Japanese, a “K” sound a large Sumi imagined Goshiki could be this (red), while Goshiki turns to a “G” sound after a vowel.) We hardly see Sumi dot. These beautiful and popular. The popular vari- goromo, as they are not as beautiful as the other two are not really eties have always been Gosanke and and breeders do not breed them. Ai goromo are the ones desirable. Shiro Utsuri, but now it seems Gosanke that have a Kohaku pattern and Asagi indigo scales in a As a and Goshiki are the popular ones. I can beautiful half-moon shape, only on the Hi plates. see the huge efforts of breeders behind Budo goromo are the ones that develop the indigo this and get excited with the even Asagi scales fully on the Hi (as in Photo 4, left.) The Photo 3: In this young Goshiki, greater future potential of koi in general. mixed color looks like purple or grape. Budo in Japanese note that the ground Maybe 20 years from now, another means grapes. There are also Koromo Sanke and is light but very consistent.The Hi variety that we do not even pay Koromo Showa varieties, but they are very hard to find. is very clean and Photo 4: Budo goromo If you find them, you are very lucky. bright. This gray attention to now will turn out to be ground will become Goshiki also have several versions, but the most completely black amazingly beautiful and popular. over time.

34 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com POND Trade Magazine 35 Marketing Marketing Koromo and Goshiki may not be that easy, Stepping Up as there are so many different versions. I think it requires some study of each variety and bloodline as well. At least please buy these varieties from trusted breeders, like the ones I mention below. Then, you can introduce them to your clients with confidence. I recommend Sakazume Koi Farm and Takano Koi Farm for Ai goromo and Budo goromo, and Hiroi Koi Farm, Kawakami Koi Farm, Kan’no Koi Farm and Aokiya Koi Farm for Goshiki. a

About the Author Taro Kodama is president of Kodama Koi Farm, the largest importer and distributor of quality Japanese koi in the U.S. With locations in Japan, Hawaii, New York and New It's moments like this that make every speed Jersey, Kodama Koi Farm carries bump and learning curve along our journey over 35,000 Japanese koi from the top breeders in worth it. Here, my son fine-tunes a waterfall Japan. Taro Kodama, along with his father, Mamoru spillway on a dedicated koi pond. Tancho Koromo like this one (above, left) are very hard to find. I have not seen Tancho Kodama, not only provide winning show koi, but Koromo in the last five years at least. Goshiki like these (above, right) were originally they also conduct many koi seminars. developed by crossing Sanke and Goshiki. by Eric Triplett, gobbling it up and changing The Pond Digger their eating and buying habits. Renaissance (Pun totally intended.) cDonald’s has been McDonald’s realized that

Leak-Proof Ponds selling virtually the if they didn’t change with the with HERCO Fish Pond Coating Understudy same menu since I times and provide “healthier” wasM a kid: burgers, fries, shakes choices and designer coffee, HERCO Coating is Ideal for all Types of Ponds and chicken nuggets. But they would leave money on the Seals and Leak-Proofs Block, Brick and Concrete table, lose a big market share Safe for Fish and for the Environment Step up your pond suddenly, in the last several HERCO Coating Promotes Healthy Aquaculture years, their menu has new and ultimately lose customers. Easy to Apply ∙ Fast Curing ∙ Durable ∙ Long-Lasting construction knowledge “healthy” items to choose from, including salads, HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Black) $125.00 gal. fruit and chicken wraps. HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Grey) $140.00 gal. HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (White) $140.00 gal. Mickey Dee’s even has HERCO H-55 Rubber Coating (Clear) $140.00 gal. “designer” coffees now. HERCO CCFW Crack Filler (White) $ 24.00 ea. When a major player HERCO CCFC Crack Filler (Clear) $ 26.00 ea. like McDonald’s changes HERCO TC-700 Cleaner $ 65.00 gal. HERCO PSC Primer $ 69.00 gal. their menu after 50 years of the same stuff, you have to wonder why, right? The answer is pretty simple. Not to be outdone, Carl’s People are researching, learn- Jr. has lettuce wrap hamburg- HecHt RubbeR ing and changing their minds ers, Del Taco now offers Turkey coRpoRtation about what they want to put Tacos as a healthy alternative and Since 1944 in their bodies. With all the Starbucks offers fresh fruit and information on the Internet at salads on their coffee menu to our fingertips, consumers are Phone Orders and Tech Advice: 1-800-872-3401 ● Online: www.hechtrubber.com ● Email: [email protected] capture market share. Did you

36 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 37 Keeping It Fresh additions of new fish or an overfeeding problem caused by a fish sitter. An extremely simple yet often-overlooked technique for keeping water healthier in your Step Up Your Knowledge of All About the Author pond is a water change routine. Implement Pond Construction Philosophies a system for your clients to easily do water Eric Triplett owns and operates The Pond Digger changes with the installation of an advanced In other industries, such as medical, automotive and education, it is a require- Inc. Waterscape Design and waterfall filter with an air-assisted cleaning Construction ment to continue learning in order to keep cycle. Or, plumbing a tee and ball valve in Company, based line after the pump can make a water change up with advances in technology. You’re not in Yucaipa, so easy a child can do it. This terrific mainte- still using a flip phone, are you? California. nance routine is most often seen in the aquar- If we follow that example in the pond With a focus ium world, but really should be adopted by world, we will be doing a great service to on Information, the pond community as well. The nutrient- our industry. Any Business 101 class will Education and Inspiration, it's rich water removed from the pond can be used tell you that if you are not growing, you are stagnating ... and in the business world, that easy to see why to irrigate nearby landscaping, and the clean he has nearly water you would typically water the landscape equals “out of business.” 9 million views with can be added to the pond. Win-win. By empowering yourself with the on YouTube. The Pond Digger Moving bed filters harness the power knowledge of how each of these systems and specializes in ecologically friendly, of “supercharged” beneficial bacteria that technologies work, you can improve water low-maintenance waterscapes for convert dirty water to clean water. The quality — and most importantly, keep fish and aquatic plants ... but more Dual Helix Waterfall filters (upper left) with an air assisted cleaning cycle beneficial bacteria on moving bed media a pond clean and clear for many years to importantly, for people. provides excellent filtration and easy maintenance. Keeping your crew moti- vated, learning and earning (upper right) is paramount to a Renaissance Pond are highly effective at consuming the waste come. You will help not only yourself, but www.theponddigger.com Division. Remote Life Support Systems (lower right) offer technology and ef- produced by koi, and are very effective at also clients, future customers — and most [email protected] ficiency. High End Goshiki Koi (inset). handling fluxes in ammonia levels due to importantly — koi. a 800/522-5043 know the junk food quick-stop convenience conversation with potential new pond pond, a filtration system installed below the store 7-Eleven now offers a line of health owners. They want to know the “healthiest” gravel can break down and consume debris, food, designed by world-famous Beachbody choice for the koi that they plan to acquire, reducing maintenance while improving trainer Tony Horton? or they want to upgrade their existing koi water quality. habitat to something healthier and easier An effective, fish-friendly pond skimmer, The Internet Has Consumers to maintain. Their Internet research has flowing at the optimal speed with a correctly Stepping Up taught them that these beautiful creatures working weir, helps to remove debris that What should this tell us as pond can live more than a hundred years if kept hits the surface of the pond before it can get designers and contractors? Our consumers in a healthy, well-maintained environment. waterlogged and sink to the bottom. are stepping up and learning. Our clients As a pond contractor, you want to Another simple add-on, an aerator, can are studying, absorbing content and infor- give your clients all the right information have significant impact on your pond habitat mation. Consumers want better, healthier to keep their koi healthy enough to live a as a whole. A properly sized air diffuser run and longer-lasting choices. This applies very long time. Keeping water quality as by an aerator or air compressor can change to every aspect of their lives. And it spills pristine as possible is the first of many steps the flow of your entire pond. Positioned down to their pets — and more impor- to make this happen. Options for a healthy correctly, aeration creates a current that can tantly, to their ponds. habitat with easy maintenance can create move debris along the pond bottom, where Watching YouTube and Hulu, you add-on sales for your project, helping to it can be picked up by a bottom drain or should notice the ads for products to help boost your bottom line. even a skimmer. keep your pets healthier so they can live On the topic of bottom drains, a simple longer lives. Consumers are emotionally UV, Filters, Skimmers and Air add-on to a pond designed with a bottom driven to provide the best possible diets UV units at the right wattage control not drain system would be a settlement tank and environments for their pets — and only algae, but also undesirable bacteria to or sieve to separate solids. Removing fish that includes their koi. help prevent bacterial infections. Tangential waste, plant material and excess food before pond returns help keep areas from stagnating it is ground up by the pump and jammed Step Up Your Koi Habitat and allowing debris to build up. This helps into your filter media? It’s really easy to with Life Support keep better water quality. explain the benefits this system offers to a This has become a common topic of If there is gravel on the bottom of the koi habitat.

38 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 39

Cover Story h W W i SY in the Water Garden How to infuse your installations with personality

by Gerard Touhey, shallows where I had released my International Water Features old friend, I could only hope he was still there and I could bring t all began over 20 years him back home. ago with a goldfish that had He was gone. In the wake of my outgrown our aquarium. It had experience I was resolved to never grownI so large that swimming and have to leave another fish friend on turning in the tank was difficult— his own in the wild. if not impossible. A larger tank was not in the picture at the time Growing like a Goldfish as we continued to build our inte- We built our first pond in our rior decorating and painting busi- Easton backyard garden in 1995. ness in a small house in Easton, Since then, Water Features by Pennsylvania. So, the poor fella Gerard has installed and worked on had to go. over 200 water features, including With apologies and a ponds in Disney World, Mexico, sorrowful parting, I released him France, Ireland, Chicago and other into the nearby river one afternoon, Illinois cities as well as Boston and thinking it to be the most humane the surrounding Lehigh Valley area. way to say “goodbye.” Upon his As an appreciator and collector introduction to the wild new world, of unique pieces of art, I began to he just stayed there in the shallows, experiment with placement of some looking up at me and seemed to be of the pieces of statuary in and saying, “Don’t leave me!” I finally had around the water garden several to walk away, miserable and crying years ago. The colorful ceramic like I was at a dear friend’s funeral. fish heads came from a small shop Returning home, I was struck in Dublin, Ireland. I would bring with a solution when I looked into back one or two of these “one-of-a-

the garden! I could dig a hole in the kind” pieces on every trip home to The decorative ceramic fish heads all came from backyard, line it, fill it with water build ponds or visit family. Many a small shop in Dublin that I would visit (often and move my goldfish outside! were resold to customers visiting along with fellow pond builders) every time we went to Ireland for pond installations. Literally running back to the river my water garden displays at my

Photos by Dan Lenner March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 41 home. (I don’t really “know” art … but I wetland filter and statuary throughout. in most features is a 1:2:1 size. (One fourth do know what I like!) Altogether, the visitor can see five distinct of the rocks should be in the smallest size As a rule, most pond contractors visit water features when visiting our gardens. range, one half in the mid-sized range, and the customer’s premises as part of a “design one fourth the largest size range — all by consultation” to discuss location, size and Our Philosophy weight and not volume.) If the feature requires four tons of stone, the quantities type of water feature desired. We begin with the idea that a water would be: 1 ton small, 2 tons medium and We don’t. If a customer would like a feature should look as natural as possible. It 1 ton largest. This provides for the most design consultation, we set up an initial should appear as if the pond or stream or falls natural appearance in most cases. appointment (at no charge) for them to were there before the house or garden was Then the Real Fun Begins! Driftwood, logs, stumps and branches along with moss can be added to provide some “naturalizing” and “softening” effects prior to planting aquatics and terrestrials in and around the feature. For many, this completes a perfect, naturalistic installation of waterfalls, streams, cascades and ponds. Many customers enjoy this We had a local fabricator build this piano to our type of installation for decades without specifications out of stainless steel and aluminum any further additions. But for those desir- before powder-coating, so it will last for years! ing a more personalized installation, there is even more fun ahead! children, turtles or ducks and recall the the garden are the Celtic Crosses. They and slightly nautical touch to the scene trip to Aquascape’s Pond College, where I represent another strong connection to and makes me think I could be camping Now for a Wee Bit O’ Whimsy! worked with other pond builders, attended my Irish homeland and provide a focus for on the lake. The fire gently crackling in Perhaps it has to do with my love of classes and purchased all the statues on reflection. the nearby koi-shaped chimera enhances unique works of art ... including our water display! Birdhouses and bird feeders, whether the sense of being in the out-of-doors — features. Perhaps a career as an interior The “Jump for Joy” frog in especially with the sounds of decorator/designer/painter inspires the the waterfalls remains a garden the waterfalls masking the noise appreciation of the whimsical. Or it could centerpiece and perhaps the of the neighborhood! be that my Irish heritage leads me to look “Chief of Whimsy” in our pond. Lighting not only extends for delightful surprises in the garden as well The “Dancing Frog Couple” enjoyment of our pond and as within the walls of our home. Or, most keep us company near the deck! waterfalls into the evening likely, “I like the things I like” and want The decorative ceramic fish hours, but it is a must for them to be a regular part of what I enjoy heads all came from a small shop softly accenting additions of daily! Thus, the things with which I deco- in Dublin that I would visit statuary and favorite pieces rate our home display features are things I (often along with fellow pond in and around the pond. Just simply like to look at as often as possible! builders) every time we went to like installing different pieces The photos here are all of our Water Ireland for pond installations. and experimenting with their Features by Gerard home display water I would bring a few home with placement, lighting is another gardens, on a narrow lot in the heart of a each trip as carry-ons so they easily adjusted enrichment of The “Jump for Joy” frog in the waterfalls remains a garden residential area in Easton. When I am on would not be broken. the garden space. It is always centerpiece and perhaps the “Chief of Whimsy” in our pond. The Waterfall Piano instal- There’s no limit to the imaginative elements you a good idea to leave a bit of my deck feeding the fish, or in the glider by can add to a water feature! This playful pair would the brightly painted chimera in the shape lation was inspired by a display be perfect for a family home. extra wire tucked away and come to our garden so they can see firsthand built. “Volcano Waterfalls,” or steep berms of a large koi next to the “swim pond,” built by Brian Helfrich and crew zip-tied or taped up when the wonder and beauty of what is possible in at the headwater of a feature, absolutely kill a or looking out my kitchen/dining room at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show. colorful or rustic, make a great addition installing a fixture to allow for a small space. We feature our “piano falls” natural appearance. Although steep berms at window, these artistic additions in and We had a local fabricator build it our spec- to the spaces around your water feature adjustment of lights. as well as another fountain and a pondless a waterfall can be “softened” by stone or soft- around the water features bring me joy! ifications out of stainless steel and alumi- and provide enhanced habitat in urban waterfall at the entry to our home property. scape that meet the eye at a higher elevation They also serve as a reminder and are num before powder-coating, so it will last areas. Just be sure the bird feeders are far Thematic Considerations As we go to the side yard we see the deck- than the start of the falls, the stream course mementos of the good times I have had for years! (A wooden feature like the one enough from the margins of your pond to A fellow pond builder has a customer side pond; cross the glass bridge over the must still be dug into and not be elevated working with other pond builders in used at the show would deteriorate in a few avoid unwanted feed or other bird related who retired from the Navy. He decorates pond to the deck; and work our way back to above the surrounding landscape. Ireland or the U.S. over the past 20-plus seasons.) “products” from getting in your water! his pond with small replicas of subma- the “large swimming pond,” with falls and The ratio of stone sizes that works best years! I see the bronze statuary of the Among my most favored pieces around The Old Canoe lends an “outdoorsy” rines and other naval vessels. A musician

42 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 43 A Long, Smashing Journey material that would not be subject to might want to incorporate a deterioration in moist environments. The year was 2008. I was taking a class dur- invited via Aquascape to build a pond at Disney “piano fountain” in their feature. ing one of my many trips to Chicago when I World in Florida for the annual flower show at And when placed in the water, they The familiar St. Francis statue is thought to myself, “Why not bring Aquascape Epcot Center. What an amazing week! Being should pose no danger to the fish in the About the Author often a common addi- to Ireland?” Next thing you know, I had a few there, doing that pond through any weathering process. tion around ponds Gerard Touhey guys and an 11-by-16-foot pond kit on a plane work, it was crazy One example: We received a is the owner of to build my first Aquascape pond in Ireland! to think that I — and very fitting for two pond companies: Waterfeatures frantic call from a customer whose Before I knew it, I was shipping containers had come from people of faith. Chihuly by Gerard fish were dying. It turned out that over to Ireland and flying back and forth every Ireland with no Glass, glass sculpture or in Wilson, other week, working here and there and even job — really, with a string of paper lanterns had been Pennsylvania, no future and no colored glass globes are in France. blown into the pond. The toxins and International clue what I was another embellishment in the dyes that dissolved into the Waterfeatures I’ve been in the pond business for 16 years, and going to be or we have seen many of water were responsible for the loss of Ltd. in Ireland. boy, what a wonderful, smashing adventure do. And then, not our clients add to the it’s been! To think that I get to play in the dirt several very large koi! Gerard came long after, I was margins of their features. and move rocks around and get paid for it is building a pond in Whimsical themes in and about to the United Pottery and ceramic crazy, but that’s what I do. It’s pure joy, fun and Disney World. the water garden may not be for States in 1998 sculpture of all types excitement, and I am at my happiest when I am everyone, but they bring delight to with $400 in building my ponds. are also fitting additions When the pond me — and many of my custom- his pocket and season comes to a for adding a whimsical My adopted mother gave me $400 and a round- started his first close each year, I ers as well. Certainly, my tastes in trip plane ticket to come to America in 1988 so touch to the garden — pond business miss it so much … but the off-season is a great water garden decoration are not that I could get a chance at living the American especially when they are of special soon after. time to travel to see family and friends, both common to all builders or custom- dream. Wow — what a gift. I can now say I am meaning to the customer. After attending several classes on how here in the States and in Europe. I love to tour ers, so experiment with adding a living it, and it’s smashing! to build natural-looking ponds using around Ireland and see all its beauty: going for piece here or there. If you don’t like walks, looking for rivers and waterfalls and just Keep Your Pond the Aquascape system, he became it, you can always move or remove it Ponds Around the World taking in Mother Nature. I also enjoy going out Inhabitants Safe! Among my most favored pieces around the garden a Certified Aquascape Contractor in I have installed a boatload of ponds in to nice restaurants and are the Celtic Crosses. They represent another strong easily, experimenting until the scene 2004 and has been on a long, exciting Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, Mexico, eating lovely food — and, of course, a good Keep in mind when adding connection to my Irish homeland and provide a focus you craft is pleasing to you and your journey ever since. To date, he and his for reflection. France and Ireland. Several years ago, I was pint of Guinness as well. pieces in and around the water customer! a team have built a couple hundred ponds. feature that they need to be of a

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FP_half Page_2015.indd 1 12/8/2014 2:32:57 PM 44 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 45 Memory Lane

Randy Slocum poses as the fishermen's model on the Victorias.

at all! (Of course, I now see that my father and my father discussed how the pond This formal water garden (above) mesmerized not only me, but also all who walked from the back of was teaching me the value of tackling a should be built of concrete and how the the store to enter the greenhouse and reach the job rather than avoiding it. I was working Slocums could supply all the aquatic gardens. harder to keep the mower from running plants we would need. However, it would than I would’ve worked just using the be up to us to build the pond! While that at that very moment he was strategiz- thing and getting the job done!) they gave my father the how-tos of pond ing with the Slocums to create a job that construction, I was paying little attention would not pay me! It would, however lead You Can’t Mow Water! to all that was going on. I was mesmerized to extensive knowledge of aquatic plant One Saturday, while pushing the mower life … it would build in me the charac- and brainstorming about how to escape How times have changed! ter required to build and care for a water Mr. and Mrs. Slocum stand in front of the It once was a very big deal garden … and it would lead to a lifelong entrance sign that welcomes visitors. this torturous ceremony (which my family to be the Water Lily Queen. seemed to love watching from our air-condi- passion for ponds. tioned house), I made a striking realization: Of course, none of that could happen you don’t have to mow water! All the lakes before I learned to appreciate the wondrous around our town had grass growing along joy of having a pond! So, every Saturday the edges, but not out in the center. And afternoon for the next few months, I was delivered to the Gardens by my father You Don't Have to even that shoreline grass was allowed to grow naturally! A plan began to form. (after mowing the evil grass, which was I humbly asked my father if I could dig now laughing at and taunting me). After Mow Water! a pond. To my surprise, his answer was working on a few special projects at the “Yes.” What’s more, he promised that we Gardens throughout the summer, I was How Slocum Water Gardens birthed a Pond Monster could go see someone that very day who finally allowed to build our first water would help us with the project! garden at home. Of course, we could only go after I cut until the dew dries at 10 a.m. — which is also by Lloyd Lightsey, the grass … and I couldn’t get that lawn The Hows and Whys of when the humidity reaches 90 percent and the The Pond Monster mowed fast enough! I was thrilled, think- Water Gardening temperature climbs to a heat index that would ing it would be my last time doing it. (Yes, By this time, my father (who had ’m often asked how I got into kill Tarzan. This, in turn, turns your body into I was young and dumb.) retired from 15 years with the U.S. Navy’s building water features. Well, your own flowing water feature — an effect that When I finally finished and show- nuclear submarine division to become the it all boils down to some grass. doesn’t stop until you make your last pass with ered, we drove to Slocum Water Gardens, by this wondrous place and daydream- stationary engineer at our local hospital) IWhen I was 13, my brother the lawnmower two hours, one gallon of gas and ing about that evil grass at home being where I would meet three people who have had a set idea in his mind about how a joined the Army and left me 30 gallons of sweat later. greatly influenced my life: Perry Slocum; replaced by cool water. pond should be built. But I had begun a in charge of mowing the lawn It didn’t take long before I developed a real his son, Peter Slocum, who still owns transformation into someone who cared every Saturday. Of course, in hatred for our grass. I also learned that my Slocum Water Gardens; and my friend From Escape Plan to Life Plan more about the way water flowed, moved, Central Florida the grass never father was the most amazing lawnmower repair Randy Slocum, who has branched off into Had I been paying attention, I would shaped and transformed than simply how stops growing. What’s more, man; no matter how I tried to break the thing Slocum Ponds and Water Gardens. have learned that my father put a lot of it supported life. I didn’t buy into the in the summer you can’t cut it down, he was able to have it running in no time That fateful Saturday, Peter Slocum stock in apprenticeships. So much, in fact, theory that “water is just the means to the

46 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 47 This lower-front natural-bottom pond was The view as you step out of the store overlooks the water gardens, dug and maintained for the Victorias only. with the natural-bottom ponds along with the concrete lily pools. end of growing aquatic plants” — a theory really smelled worse than the grass I was so about give you the molecular breakdown taro, papyrus and a variety of other plants. Unfortunately, as I soon learned, I had Perry Slocum used his skills as a photographer to capture the simplicty of the blooms, using the shadows I heard frequently from the Slocums. desperately trying to kill at home! of any given plant in a language that I still The Slocums estimated that the job also removed all the plants. and reflections in his black-and-white shots. Now, don’t get me wrong. I really was don’t understand. Why we need the Latin should take about four hours to complete. I heard words that day that I had trying my best as a volunteer employee at Pulling Weeds … And Then name of each plant, I’ll never know. So you can imagine how proud I was when never heard before, and I don’t think all Slocums sat me down and explained the the Gardens. But I was starting to realize Some One Saturday morning, I was told to I walked into the showroom after just three of them were Latin plant names! I didn’t real purpose of pond weeding and how that grass was a plant, and I was learning At the beginning I had no knowledge remove all the weeds from one of the back hours, covered from head to toe in a very realize just how fast those old timers it was different from harvesting. And the how to take care of water plants. What’s of the difference between a weed and a ponds that was not viewed by the public, nor smelly substance, and announced that there could move until I saw them rushing to good news of the day: they promoted me more, all these water plants needed to be plant to keep (terminology I still use to from the showroom or the greenhouse. This was not one weed left in that pond! And that put all the plants back in! to the prestigious position of head pond taken care of outside, in the heat. And they this day). The Slocums, however, can just pond was for cultivating cattails, arrowhead, was true; I had removed every weed. After that regrettable incident, the de-mucker and chief pond sanitation

48 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 49 working the weekends and learn- stone is very brittle and hard, ing more about the construction like glass. Also like glass, it will of the ponds than the plants that cut the dickens out of you. It has were in them. I also learned how, holes in it, which can create an through the presence of the plants, awesome water effect by them- the water could become the living selves. But if cemented in prop- entity that we all strive for and erly, it can be used to create a attain the clarity that everyone really cool Polynesian look. Add expects today. in some low-voltage lighting at The patience required to night, and it looks like a volcano. build a soil-based pond is some- We also used broken slabs thing that many do not have. We Perry Slocum had one major rule: Never use or of concrete to make stair-step move his waders. It was time to run and hide would dig out the ground, place if you did! But it was always wonderful to see waterfalls, and even an old claw- new 32-mil liner in the hole and him so happy when wading among his lilies. foot bathtub was used once! then throw a quarter of the dirt Anything we could get on the water would become amazingly clear. It This waterfall (above) was built for the series of five ponds that would flow to the bottom pond, where one of the first Slocum bucket filters was developed. Peter back in. We’d also add some cow manure, cheap was fair game. Slocum (middle) replenishes the holding tanks in the store. Mr. Slocum would often recruit local friends and their children (right) to pose on the wondrous Victo- peat and a blend of fertilizer from the local would stay that way until we harvested the One Sunday, I went to a flea market rias that were grown at the gardens. After handling the thorns on them, I agree with with this little one’s attitude! mines here in Florida, which made the plants, fish or clams. Then, the de-mucking and found 10 or 12 cast iron frying pans job would begin all over again. officer! While the job was every bit as to learn just how proud I could be after when I realized that some of the plants I water look like a mud pit. that were rusty and cracked. I asked my smelly as it sounds, it also involved lots of cleaning and repairing those back ponds. was helping with might end up in places However, once we added oxygenat- dad if I could buy them and weld them ing plants and freshwater clams that were Waterfalls and Repurposed together to make a custom water feature. water, which was far cooler than that nasty The back side of the Gardens was becom- that I would visit when I got older. obtained from local lakes or harvested out Materials Miraculously, he agreed. We went home grass at home. ing my playground, and any area that was Soon enough, those days on the back of the other ponds, things started to turn My passion for waterfalls began in the and welded the pans’ handles onto a 3-inch prepared to hold water could be used to ponds prepared me to work on the front around. I’d put in a few dozen goldfish back ponds at the Gardens, where I was pipe, cascading around the pipe in a circle. Building Momentum cultivate and harvest aquatic plants that ponds. When that time arrived, I thought I (to decrease the mosquito population) and allowed to play — I mean, work — with Each pan poured water into the next. It

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50 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 51 … with absolutely no grass to cut!

Becoming the Monster Perry, Peter and my Dad taught me some valuable lessons in those first years of working at the Gardens: work hard, love your passions and dream until the smile can’t be taken off your face. I took them all to heart, and that’s how I became known as the Pond Monster. Those men taught me to attack a project like it should have been done yesterday. And now, I can find no better satisfaction than seeing the image in your mind or design come to Still hanging with the Slocums, with Randy to life … using your own flesh and bone to See our complete line of water treatments, my right and Peter to my left. Even though the turn an idea into reality and make it match premium koi food, and other accessories to main gardens are gone, the Slocums still grow make your koi pond the best it can be! and sell their legendary namesake lilies, thanks what your mind’s eye sees. to the growth of Winter Haven and the widening Today, I’m thankful to know that I was Please visit the website for complete product information: of the highway out to LEGOLAND (then known as Cypress Gardens). taught by the best. I’ll always have their presence there, watching me as I take each ikukoikichi.com the first water effects ever added to our step in this life. I know how blessed I am to pond at home. have worked with some of the best teachers Speaking of home: by the time I even- in this industry, and to have the Slocums tually purchased a house of my own, that and others consider me The Pond Monster. childhood home of mine had a 12,000- After 41 years of ponds, I can tell you that gallon pond in the front yard and several if you work hard, love your passions and (877) 412-FARM (3276) water features and effects in the backyard dream until the smile can’t be taken off your face, you’ll be blessed as well. So always rock on and let the water flow!a

nference Co November 9 – 13, 2015

Long Beach, California

About the Author n

o

i

t

a Take advantage of pond-focused networking c

u

d

E at the Water Features & Lake Management Common Interest Group meeting.

Lloyd Lightsey, The Pond Monster, has been building, engineer- ing and just plain loving the water feature industry for nearly 41 years. He loves playing with life-sized Tonka trucks and throwing dirt and rocks all day with his crew. Lloyd has an awesome wife, Karrie, his “partner in life and business” who will soon be announcing her own line of pond accessories. Lloyd and Waves of Innovation Karrie have been “digging the pond life for the four years we’ve been married (pun intended).” www.irrigationshow.org

52 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 53 water drains, this isn’t a big issue because all all can be modified to some degree to meet for much larger debris-trapping ability of the water exiting the pond goes through the needs of a koi pond. and longer maintenance intervals between Best Practices the skimmer intake in a high volume. In Koi ponds don’t require skimmer water cleaning. The Aqua Niche Skimmer systems where other outflow sources are in for the entire turnover rate as water garden Pool skimmers can be plumbed directly place, however, a better weir is necessary to skimmer systems do. Although submers- to the front of an external pump, but a allow the skimmer to actually do the job of ible pumps can be used, direct suction to prefilter between the skimmer and pump is skimming and not just act as an upper water an external pump is generally preferred outlet. Helix Pond Skimmer because of external pumps' increased effi- Custom Installation ciency. With water garden skimmers, direct Grabbing the Gunk suction can be accomplished using the inter- Skimmers always contain some type nal filtration of the skimmer as the prefil- of trapping system to catch the debris as tration system, protecting the pump from it passes through. Water garden skimmers debris. Add a bulkhead for a 2-inch or larger have a net or a basket to catch the large line directly from the back or bottom of the debris and then have a system of pads, skimmer to the pump and you’re ready to matting or brushes to trap the finer particles go. The unused space where the submers- and do some initial bio-conversion. Water ible pump would have gone can be utilized garden skimmers also have a large area to by adding more media for increased prefil- contain a submersible pump and, in general, tration. If prefiltration is handled down- Placement, are not designed for more efficient external line, a plate can be designed to fit the shape advised to pull out the heavy solids before pump systems. Pool-type skimmers house of the skimmer housing and inserted in the pump. Gravity flow to a prefiltration just a basket because there is no biocon- place to hold additional pool-type baskets tank is the better method because the prefil- Flow and Fish! version or fines filtration that needs to be for a higher flow rate. These can be used in tration tank can be larger and more effective. done in the skimmer and because swim- conjunction with the original basket or net This can be accomplished with the addition Choosing the right skimmer for your pond ming pools don’t use submersible pumps. or as stand-alone baskets. Modifying water of 3-inch or 4-inch bulkheads for larger lines Each has advantages and disadvantages and garden skimmers in this fashion allows between the skimmer and pre-filter. Pool

by Kent Wallace, the pond bottom. Ponds also generate a film on Living Water Solutions the surface created by oils from plant debris, fish, food, dissolved organics, et cetera. Even a pond that is completely protected from the elements etermining the best skimmer for a can produce this film, creating a dingy look particular project and how best to use it can be a challenge. Choices for skim- to the water’s surface. A properly functioning skimmer pulls this film off, keeping the surface Dmers come from both the water garden indus- clear. try and the pool A skimmer works with the use of a weir: a SERIES: industry. The use floating door that pivots at the bottom with a Best Pond Practices of a pond skimmer top edge that is suspended just below the surface This is an installmentof started with water of the water. The incoming water is forced over an ongoing, multi-part series. gardening as a the top edge, creating a high level of tension Be sure to watch for further way of moving the installments in future issues! at the water’s surface. The closer the weir edge submersible pump is to the surface, the better it will create this out of the pond and into a protected space, away surface tension. There are many types of weirs, from the fish and plant debris. This created a but they’re all designed around the same goal: form of prefiltration with leaf nets and Japanese removing surface debris. matting to separate out the larger debris ahead Many water garden skimmers create poor of the pump. surface tension and have poor skimming ability due to a weir with little buoyancy or side chan- Skimmer Basics nels that open up to the skimmer’s interior as the The primary job of a skimmer is to pull the weir opens with water flow. In “skimmer only” Examples of weir operation large, floating debris off the surface of a pond ponds that don’t incorporate other water outflow before it has a chance to saturate and settle to types like bottom grids, bottom drains or mid-

54 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 55 Skimmer Options it pulls from the surface. The circular weir is also fish-safe because it floats up and Three pool skimmers on the market have a large basket and are very suitable down vertically and doesn’t pivot like a for pond application. The one with the conventional weir that can trap a fish. This largest basket and the largest throat size (9.5 is safe for even small koi or goldfish when inches) of any pool-type skimmer is made the water flow is kept at a reasonable rate. by Waterco. This skimmer also comes with The Aqua Niche uses a large, B-37 basket a beige lid assembly, which makes a pleasing and comes with a 1.5-inch side outlet or blend with landscape or top cap easier. The a 2-inch, 3-inch or 4-inch bottom outlet. This pool skimmer was modified for Waterway Renegade series also has a large The newest skimmer on the market is gravity flow with 3-inch outlets. basket version, and the Pentair Bermuda the Helix skimmer, which uses the circu- This Savio skimmer was modified for an extra basket. skimmer has a large basket and also comes lar weir technology in an external housing. skimmers are designed for direct suction-to- pond’s edge is limited, such as in the side in black. The larger basket and gravity flow The circular weir can be adapted to other pump operation and usually have 1.5-inch of a raised pond or in a corner. Pool skim- to prefiltration make these good choices for pool-type skimmers, and eliminating the or 2-inch outlets. These small outlets are mers are much easier to work with aestheti- more formal applications. conventional weir door by the use of a highly restrictive and not suitable for grav- cally, and the vinyl liner versions have a Another skimmer option is the “Aqua retrofit kit makes them more fish-safe. ity-flow systems, which require 3-inch or mechanical clamping faceplate for use with Niche” skimmer. This is a free-mounting Many conventional weir skimmers 4-inch piping. Gravity-flow application can pond liner or spray-applied coatings such skimmer that is supported by a pipe directly have been modified to accept horizon- be achieved by cutting off the lower portion as polyurea. Wide-mouth versions are also in the pond and incorporates a floating, tal bars just below the water level as of the skimmer body and adding an adaptor available, but aren’t necessary because it is circular weir. A floating, circular weir is “fish guards.” Fish-guard bars should be for either 3-inch or 4-inch. the actual throat size that is important and the most “fish-safe” design currently on the mounted horizontally and not vertically not the tapered inlet shape to the face. market. The circular weir’s shape actually to allow debris to flow under and over the Why a Pool Skimmer? Never leave the basket out of a skimmer. has a weir lip approximately 15 inches in bars without getting caught. One advantage of a pool skimmer is the This can be dangerous for fish, and the circumference and floats extremely close to Most of the skimmers I have replaced LIKE us on facebook! smaller footprint and lid. Pool-type skim- floating debris must still be removed by the surface. This creates a very high level of over the years have been crushed in by the www.facebook.com/pondtrade mers are a good option when space at the hand from the pre-filter tank. surface tension because of the thin water line surrounding soil over time. A concrete

56 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 57 collar around the surface perimeter can time unless done properly. plumbed into it for regular maintenance. To see full press releases and additional news items, go prevent this and is a good practice to put in The skimmer door can also be closed for a to www.pondtrademag.com/tradenews Trade News place when possible. Many pond skimmers Proper Bottom Drain few seconds each week, forcing all the water get distorted by soil movement created by Requirements possible through the drain line in an effort to landscape growth and human traffic. A bottom drain line into a skimmer is flush the line and keep it flowing. Atlantic Water Gardens Introduces All-New LED Spout Lights Fasteners for skimmer faces, as in all a gravity-flow concept. A 2-inch line will Choosing the right skimmer starts with Designed to work in both formal wall spout and bubbling fountain pond-related devices, should be stainless steel gravity-flow approximately 900 gph with a proper placement and flow. Then consider- applications, Atlantic’s spout lights install easily to beautifully illumi- 1-inch difference between the pond surface ations are made for fish safety, debris volume, nate the stream of water flowing from your wall spout or bubbling up from your fountain. Available in warm white and color-changing level and the water level in the container ease of maintenance and aesthetics. Knowing Choosing the right options, these lights enable you to carry the enjoyment of your to which it flows. A 3-inch line will flow your options makes the skimmer installation skimmer starts with proper water feature long into the night. MSRP: Warm white New Lake Product Catalog from approximately 1,800 gph with a 1-inch fit your pond’s particular needs. a – $89.99, Color-changing – $120.00 Aquatic Edge placement and flow. Then difference. It is virtually impossible to create Aquatic Edge has unveiled their new 2015 Lake a 1-inch difference in a skimmer, although a For more info: considerations are made for Product Catalog. Along with original products like smaller level of difference can be achieved if James Chubb, National Sales Manager Breakdown Booster and Muck Monster, this year’s fish safety, debris volume, 616/914-9953 done properly. The internal water level drop About the Author offering also includes new products Ultra [email protected] ease of maintenance and requires a restriction at the skimmer face and Kent Wallace was born and Pond Dye, Clearwater and Polar Vortex to www.atlanticwatergardens.com aesthetics. a relatively high flow rate from the pump. raised in Las Vegas. give pond and lake managers a perfect selec- The skimmer weir opening must be kept Kent spent most of tion of all-natural treatment products. small to restrict the flow and the weir must his adult life in the By utilizing these products, manag- or plastic. Some popular commercial pond be very buoyant. automobile industry ers can streamline their treatment skimmers come with fasteners that are not One of the best weirs for this is the old- at independent shops programs, which makes mainte- stainless steel and begin to rust in a matter school bellows weir, thanks to its stiffness. and dealerships, along nance contracts easier to spec and of days after installation. Be cautious with The drain line should be at least 3-inch with working at his own bid. Clients will be happy and these fasteners and replace them when you in any but the smallest of pond systems. shop as a race car lake managers will see increased come across them. Stainless steel nuts and While a 1-inch drop is difficult to achieve, fabricator at age 24. Then, in 2001 a profits. You can download the catalog at www.AquaticEdgeConsulting.com, which bolts are readily available and will prevent a half-inch to quarter-inch drop is achiev- neighbor asked Kent if he could build her includes all product labels, retail pricing and fastener failure and the necessary replace- able. A half-inch drop will allow a flow rate a koi pond like the one Kent’s father had. From that point on pond building a handy chart that specifies conditions of use ment later on. of approximately 900 gph through a 3-inch became his new passion. This first pond for each product. Contractors and distribu- The practice of installing a bottom line. The drain line inlet should be in front he built was submitted to Better Homes tors can contact Aquatic Edge to request drain line into a skimmer has become of the pads or matting in the skimmer & Gardens Magazine and won Best New EcoSeries Fountains from Airmax wholesale pricing. Send email to Sales@ popular recently. This is largely an unsuc- to protect the pump from pond bottom Courtyard Nationwide in their special AquaticEdgeConsulting.com, or call Airmax has set a new standard in floating fountains cessful marketing ploy — and a waste of debris, and the line should have a cleanout interest publication. 724/953-5539. with the introduction of their EcoSeries ½ HP Fountain. This EcoSeries Fountain offers best-in-class spray patterns, flow rates and pump efficiency. This energy-efficient, one-half-horsepower fountain outperforms most other three-quarter- and one- horsepower fountains avail- able today. The EcoSeries efficiency, performance and “no tools” design will make this fountain a favorite for both the end user and the installer. The EcoSeries comes standard with three premium spray patterns, a 100-foot power cord with underwater quick disconnect, a GFCI-protected control panel with timer New Tranquil Décor Mag Drive Pumps and photocell for the optional LED light sets, a three- EasyPro Pond Products has added new mag drive pumps to their family year warranty and a maintenance-free motor design. of Tranquil Décor water feature products. These pumps are ready for use The EcoSeries Fountain options include 150-foot, in fountains and bubbler features with flow rates ranging from 85 gph 200-foot and 250-foot power cord lengths; additional to 1,000 gph. The mag drive design is compact and energy-efficient. All premium spray patterns and LED light sets. models incorporate a built-in adjustable flow control to dial in the exact To learn more about the EcoSeries™ 1/2 HP flow rate for any water feature. Floating Fountain and to see it in action visit For more information or to request a full color catalog, call www.airmaxeco.com/ecoseriesvideo 800/448-3873 or visit easypropondproducts.com

58 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com March/April 2015 POND Trade Magazine 59 Advertisers’ Index Trade IPPCA Needs You! MARKETPLACE Trade News Aqualife...... 13 There have been big changes at the Aquility Systems, Inc...... 57 International Professional Pond Companies Atlantic Water Gardens...... 16 Association, and I thought you should be the first Bassinger Fisheries...... 25 to know. First, I regret to announce that Dave and Gloria Jones have voluntarily removed them- Billy Bland Fishery, Inc...... 61 selves from the Executive Committee, the govern- Biosafe Systems LLC...... 14 ing body of the organization, and the Board at Carlisle Syntec Systems...... 20 Large. I would like to publicly thank Dave and Danner Manufacturing...... 2 Gloria Jones for their years of dedication and EasyPro Pond Products ...... 32, 33 service, to IPPCA and to the industry at large. Fielding Pumps...... 44 Their establishment of an impartial Certification Aquascape Sets Date for Fountain Bleu...... 18, 61 PONDEMONIUM 2015 Program for contractors, the successful campaign to blunt the incursion of EPA Water Sense regu- retail members. I am personally developing Best GC Tek ...... 56 Aquascape Inc. has set the date for lations and the integration of NAPP membership Practices PowerPoints in English and Spanish to Hecht Rubber...... 36 Pondemonium 2015, the water garden have all served the industry well. Under the Jones’ help our members grow their businesses as they Helix...... 12 industry’s premier business training and guidance IPPCA has taken giant strides forward; promote interest in the water feature industry Premium Pond Leaf Nets networking event. From August 5 to 8, Holmes Farms, Inc...... 53 now the Board of Directors will shoulder the and IPPCA. wholesale and retail distributors, contractors, and retailers Industrial Test Systems...... 51 administrative and executive duties of IPPCA The website (www.ippca.org) will be updated can attend Aquascape’s training event P.O. Box 712 Irrigation Association...... 53 without them. At my request, Gloria to accommodate the new content as designed to help grow their water feature Orchard Park, NY 14127 Kasco Marine...... 31 has agreed to assist with secretarial soon as funds allow, as befits businesses. duties during the transition. our status as a state- and 716 662-2785 ph/fax Kloubec Koi Farm...... 61 “Our goal with Pondemonium is to Dave has stepped away “with a federally recognized 501(c) [email protected] KW Solutions ...... 61 offer leading-edge construction and train- clear conscience, leaving IPPCA (6) non-commercial organiza- www.pondnets.com Little Giant...... 64 ing events,” says Greg Wittstock, founder in good hands.” tion. Finally, though the phone Mainland Mart Corp...... 52 and CEO of Aquascape Inc. “Ample time We are very pleased to announce number will remain unchanged, a for networking is provided in addition to KW Solutions, Inc. Matala USA...... 39 the appointment of Rip Sokol to the Board, new mailing address is being secured. classroom sessions and hands-on training Maxxflex...... 3 joining Mark Lawson, Gil Belcher, Mark The most important thing that’s still missing events. “ Medo...... 45 Gibson, Pieter Van Westervelt and me. An icon from the all-new IPPCA is … you! We need you, Pondemonium 2015 offers something Microbe-Lift...... 23 of the Industry, Rip needs no introduction; we to join and revitalize the only trade Organization for everyone, whether you’re just getting are delighted to add his talents and experience to by, and for, our water feature industry. Drop Niji-Yama Koi Wholesale...... 50 started with water features or have numer- the Board. Together, we are aggressively expand- me a line at 631/827-7353 or send me an email OASE Living Water...... 63 ous years of experience under your belt. ing our educational and certification programs, at [email protected] to be included Odyssey Systems Ltd...... 58 To learn more about Pondemonium, log and IPPCA builds on sturdy foundations. To our in the next Open Meeting, when we’ll discuss onto www.pondemonium.com. For more Outdoor Water Solutions...... 29 Certified Professional Pond Contractor program where we’re going together. Make no mistake – information about the Q Center, visit Performance Pro Pumps...... 21 we are adding a new Certified Professional Pond IPPCA is YOUR organization, and it’s not going www.qcenter.com. Polytank, Inc...... 57 Retailer initiative, headed up by President Elect anywhere without you. I’m looking forward to Pond Pro 2000...... 49 Mark Lawson, to provide and promote best hearing from you! For the full press release, go management and construction practices for our to www.pondtrademag.com/ippca-needs. Pondliner.com...... 24 Ponds For Peace...... 7 Pond World Distributing...... 7 Laguna’s Advanced Series of Pressure Flo Filters Keeps Ponds Pristine Pond Zinger...... 48 SICCE USA...... 55 Laguna is releasing an improved series of Pressure Flo Filters. smoothly, the Pressure Flo Tranquility Ponds...... 17 The high-pressure, 1,000 to 4,000-gallon UV filters are designed system includes a revolu- with enhanced filtration features for clean, pristine ponds. Click- tionary Backwash-Cleaning Tsurumi America...... 52 Fit fast connectors make setup simple and cleaning the filter System that completely cleans quick, clean work. the surface of foam filters. An The new Pressure Flo Filters include improved UV bulbs indicator makes it simple to tell (13 to 36 watts) guaranteed to KILL algae and eliminate green when the filter needs clearing. Extend your national visibility - water. An LED indicator shows when the lamp is running. Durable pump handles atop the advertise in

The Pressure Flo 2000 – 4000 models also include upgraded filter quickly and easily clear foam TMTM biological media (BioLava) to improve biological filtration. The filters of debris without opening large, porous surface of the BioLava rocks promotes the growth the filter or getting hands dirty. PONDTRADE of beneficial bacteria and has proven to be more effective at For more information, contact your Rolf C. removing ammonia than traditional bio balls. Hagen representative, visit www.hagen.com or call Don’t miss out on this Call Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 To keep internal filtering equipment clean and running 800/225-2700. Market Place advertising opportunity. See our website: or [email protected] www.pondtrademag.com/advertise/marketplace 60 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com POND Trade Magazine 61 FINAL THOUGHT...

"Where are the croutons?"

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