November/December 2018 US $6.95

TM

POServing ProfessionalsND in the PondTRADE and Industry

www.pondtrademag.com Japanese Design A journey through the modern, western Japanese Garden p. 56

Solid as a Rock p.8 Keep it Clear p.21 Lotus Lowdown p.54 Beautifully simple water gardening

WHOLESALE PRICING AND SERVICE We support your business with very competitive pricing and a large variety of equipment from multiple brands. Most orders ship the same or next business day. YOU BUILD EDUCATION Our customer service representatives are always happy to help with any technical assistance and are able to TRANQUILITY provide professional advice on products, design & construction. We also offer pond training & WE PROVIDE YOU THE certification classes. HUGE INVENTORY We house over $1,000,000 of inventory from over forty top SUPPLIES TO CREATE IT manufacturers in our warehouse. We handle most warranty issues for you, no need to contact the To learn more, contact our Dealer Support Team at 800-353-3444 manufacturer. or email us at [email protected] WE SHIP EVERYTHING BUT THE WATER

WWW.PONDLINERWHOLESALE.COM © 2018 by Rolf C. Hagen Inc. Laguna is a registered trademark of Rolf C. Hagen Inc. (866) 219-3561 PONDTRADE TMTM Volume 23 | Issue 6 November/December 2018 Serving Professionals in the Pond and Water Feature Industry 28 Be Still My Pond, Part 2 In our last issue, Kent Wallace recounted the design and build of a formal, still pond with Foo Dog statues for a client in the arid climate of Las Vegas. Don't miss Act Two of this story, with the team bringing the design to fruition with a sophisticated network of plumbing and filtration techniques.

36 Japanese COVER STORY Crafting a western-style Japanese garden requires more of an understanding of philosophy than the ability to follow a "how-to" guide. Jerome Skuba takes us back through thousands of years of tradition in order to grasp the simplicity, uniqueness and environmental awareness of this waterscape design. 28 48 Atlantic Professional Conference Did you have the opportunity to attend Atlantic Water ' second annual Professional Conference in Cleveland, Ohio? We certainly did, and we've got 21 the photos to prove it. Publisher Lora Lee Gelles has the recap of some of the highlights of this year's show. 54 Lotus Lowdown Ten Mile Creek Nursery caught the lotus bug back 8 in 2009, and today, as operational manager Laura Bancroft explains, it's one of their best sellers. See why growing the popular water plant may not be as FEATURES daunting as you once thought. Solid as a Rock POND CONSTRUCTION Keep it Clear LANGUAGE OF KOI 16 8 21 Natural disasters and stop-work orders are not While bacterial infections in koi can be frustrating usually components of a successful construction to deal with, they don’t have to have a negative project, but in this case, they motivated Jerry impact on your short koi-selling window. Casey DEPARTMENTS Romano to craft a breathtaking boulder feature LeFever profiles steps to maintain a healthy 36 that would become his showroom's centerpiece. environment and reduce stress in your stock. 6 Upcoming Events 62 Trade News Marketplace 16 The Fear Factor 26 An Attitude of Gratitude 64 There is little more worrisome for a water feature This past August, Aquascape celebrated its 20th 65 Advertisers’ Index contractor than pricing themselves out of business. year of Pondemonium, its annual networking and Fear not, says Tom Grandy. He explains how to training event. Jennifer Zuri takes a look back reasonably raise your rates without losing business. at this year's highlights. $ COLUMNS $ 7 Publisher’s Perspective $

54

4 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 5 Upcoming Events Publisher’s Perspective 2 018 March 22 - 24 TM Central Florida Koi & Goldfish Show October 31 - November 2 Avanti Palms Resort Hotel PONDTRADE International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo Orlando, Florida Mandalay Bay Convention Center www.cfks.org Staff Page 66 Las Vegas, Nevada www.poolspapatio.com May 7 - 9 Publisher ot your attention with that headline, I bet! As I was National Hardware Show finishing up designing this issue, I came to the "final" December 3 - 7 Las Vegas Convention Center Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 Irrigation Show 2018 Las Vegas, Nevada [email protected] page, page 66, which shows a beautiful photo with Long Beach Convention Center www.nationalhardwareshow.com Gthe catch phrase "Time to Reflect." Now that the leaves are Long Beach, California Editor falling, colder weather is setting in (at least for us up north) and www.irrigation.org August 21 - 25 Jordan Morris the calendar year is coming to an end, Pondemonium [email protected] 2 018 The Q Center I'm sitting back reflecting that it has St. Charles, Illinois Advertising Sales been a good year. I think most of you January 9 - 11 www.pondemonium.com would agree that pond building has MANTS Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 Baltimore Convention Center [email protected] been on an upswing, and the economy Baltimore, Maryland is doing well. LET US www.mants.com Graphic Design We've had a great year at POND Gelles Graphics February 19 - 22 [email protected] Trade, too. We've been fortunate to Expo have a wide variety of in-depth, innova- Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center TURN YOUR Accounts Receivable tive articles this year, with a lot of new Shawnee, Oklahoma www.wgexpo.com Lois Spano writers and perspectives. Our second [email protected] annual Water Artisans of the Year March 2 - 3 contest was a huge hit, and it's hard to DATABASE 32nd Annual Koi Club of San Diego Koi Show Web Editor Del Mar Fairgrounds Grant Gerke believe the results of our third contest are just two issues away. But Del Mar, California [email protected] rather than look too far forward, I think it's important to continue www.koiclubofsandiego.org to reflect on the here and now. INTO Are you attending an event that you think others should know about? Are you hosting an Printer Case in point, I'm really excited about the Japanese Garden event and want more people to come? Send event info to [email protected]. Sutherland Printing Design feature on pg. 36. We've been trying to run an article on Montezuma, Iowa this topic for more than a year, and Jerome Skuba did a great job covering the topic. I worked closely with Jerome on the photogra- DOLLARS For your phy, and he had me visit and shoot several locations. Hey, you don't Moving? Let Us Know have to twist my arm to do that! Japanese gardens are so welcoming If you are moving, please update your address with Free Subscription us so we can update our records. and peaceful, and it was my pleasure to have a small hand in this see our issue's cover feature. Use the forms from the post office, or drop us an website www.pondtrademag.com email at [email protected] with your old Jerome's article is just one of eight fascinating features we've schedule your free call and new contact information. lined up for you in this issue. In the pond construction department, or call 708/873-1921 to see if you qualify Jerry Romano recounts a harrowing sequence of events that led to the creation of a true gem when it comes to larger-than-life water features. Flip the page and check out the "miracle boulder" that www.mypondtent.com Contact Info POND Trade Magazine, ISSN 1949-0585 is a trade POSTMASTER: Send address changes to POND Trade Magazine, now adorns Jerry's company showroom. 215.805.8257 publication of LG Publishing, Inc. Material is selected for its interest PO BOX 2721, Orland Park, IL 60462 POND Trade Mag­­­azine © Lora Lee Gelles, 2018 For you business owners who may be struggling to keep your to the koi, water feature and pond industries, and the publishers accept P.O. Box 2721 no responsibility for the accuracy of content. Reproduction rates competitive, Tom Gandy has an eye-opening feature about Advertising Policies: LG Publishing, Inc. reserves the right to refuse to Orland Park, IL 60462 rights by written permission only. publish any ad. Submission of an ad to LG Publishing does not constitute a 708/873-1921 • FAX 760/418-4606 raising your hourly wages on pg. 16 that might make you think commitment by LG Publishing, Inc. to publish it. Publication of an ad does not POND Trade Magazine is published bi-monthly, starting in January, constitute an agreement for continued publication. LG Publishing, Inc. will not be differently about the subject in the future. Also, don't miss Laura 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 Bancroft's "Lotus Lowdown" at the end of the issue for everything 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 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 you need to know about this easy-to-grow aquatic plant. the cost of the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being Orland Park, IL and additional offices. For new subscriptions, additional cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the copies and address changes, please call 708/873-1921 or email correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall LG Publishing be liable for Happy PONDering! [email protected]. consequential damages of any kind.

6 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 7 Pond Construction

Solid as a Rock Making the most of challenging circumstances

by Jerry Romano, eted design, which includes multiple spill- an enormous tree onto some live wires. At Liquid Designz of New Jersey way bowls, urns, gorgeous driftwood, large the time, no displays were located there, as rocks and colorful plantings along with a it served as nothing more then a place for us ur Liquid Designz showroom is Jersey-shore theme of thick rope running to receive stone deliveries. I didn’t realize that situated on a fairly busy, double- through three sets of pylons. The other because the tree was partially located on my Olined county road in Northern side has our latest “insane,” floating 1-ton property, the power company was only obli- New Jersey. It presents a perfect opportu- boulder that you see pictured here. gated to cut the parts of the tree that were nity to showcase some of our beautiful work However, it was a bit of a journey to get hanging on the wires and clean any debris as close to the road as possible, so passing to this point. off the road. I wasn’t home at the time, but traffic can view one or both of our two I was ready to lose it when I noticed every displays flanking the corners of our property, Mother Nature Strikes branch, limb and trunk that was thrown onto approximately 150 feet apart. It started about three years ago when a my property. On one side we have a lovely, multifac- storm blew through the area, knocking down I decided to remain calm and was fortu-

The vertical support boulder (left) and 1-ton boulder were finally set and secured. The calm (or mayhem) caused by this act of nature (middle) set off the sequence of events that followed. The vertical support boulder (right) was secured and positioned during the cement pour.

8 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 9 Water in Motion: Our finished project (above) dazzles during the day. The vertical support boulder (above, nate enough to be able to move everything Making Magic Unfortunately, the town shut down all I knew he did, because I was the nice guy right) was transported down to its final location, where it would be positioned, leveled and secured while the out of the way with our MT52, except for the construction after we finished installing the who asked him to get off his machine and footing was being poured. The liner was in and folded back at this stage. So, the project had everything — a large largest piece of the tree. It was lying mainly huge reservoir and ground water pumps, as give us a hand with our 35-by-100 liner for pond with massive boulders, a wetland filter the water table was high. the negative-edge reservoir. It was a blister- in the woods adjacent to our property, but it with a small stream running to one end of ing 98 degrees in a wide-open area. “Please extended about 10 feet onto my property. I the pond, a 90-degree, 9,000-gallon reser- Bringing it Home don’t ever ask me to do that again,” he said. turned this negative into a positive and built voir that wrapped around a huge, porcelain We laughed a bit on the phone, and a small, cool-looking pondless waterfall with tile patio, and massive seating boulders up So as things were being worked out water originating from inside the large piece of close and personal, where the pond falls at the hospice location, I certainly wasn’t then I explained my vision to him regard- tree section on my property. It was nice for a into the negative edge. going to hang around. I told my contrac- ing this "insane" design concept. “I have to while, but I tend to get bored quickly. All this, and yet the coolest part of the tor buddy I was going to build the Miracle be part of that,” he replied. Fast-forward about three years, and I project was not shown on the plans at all. Boulder at our showroom right where that So, the team was set. It was Matt, Paul was cleaning out a residential pond for my Fortunately, the CEO trusted me, and when darn tree came down. “Sure you are,” he (my foreman at the time) and, of course, largest commercial client, the CEO of a major he heard the words “Miracle Boulder,” he said. Two days later, the initial little pond- yours truly. Little did I know what chal- hospital in New Jersey. He told me they were figured it went well with the unfortunate less feature I had built there was ripped out, lenges were ahead of us. looking to do something fairly impressive at theme of a hospice location. This project and I started my search for the right-sized the hospital’s hospice location, which sits on was being constructed for the countless materials to complete this “insane” design. Getting to Work 25 acres and backs up to a natural wetland. families of loved ones who would soon be It would have to be slightly scaled down and First off, Paul and I ripped out the old I would be working with another hospital passing on. The Miracle Boulder was to be completely pondless based on the grade of pondless design and cut back the huge tree contractor I was already close with, who had situated as a circular pondless feature set up the property and the location of the design. about another 6 feet so I could visualize an amazing crew of guys. I was very excited to start the 50-foot stream, which would Don’t get me wrong. I was very disap- my new design. We started with a boulder about the opportunity. lead back to the pond on the other side. pointed regarding the stop-work order. and a very rough, stacked stone retaining The first thing on my list was to ask the The Miracle Boulder was to be 8 feet above However, while I was working at the hospice wall in a semicircle. Once the wall was CEO one simple but telling question: “Did the water and natural looking. This was the location, I had run into Matt, a very nice guy completed, I needed Matt to use his small you want Six Flags or Disney?” Without any farthest point out in this huge, open field. who owned an excavating company called excavator to break up the hard clay and With the top boulder precisely measured, drilled and cut via our cardboard template, there were three hesitation, his answer was — you guessed it Larger plantings would have followed. Hartman Excavating. I decided to call him deep base of an old fieldstone retaining wall, critical alterations necessary to secure and position the rock to mesh perfectly with the support boulder. — Disney. “Good choice,” I told him. Did you catch that? Would have followed. and ask him if he remembered me — which along with years of tandems and tri-axles

10 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 11 Our initial pondless design (left) was a creative response to the tree that had crashed down. A portion of our insane design (right) was never completed. This 90-degree, or wraparound, vanishing-edge reservoir was the only phase that was completed due to a very high water table. However, it was the stop-work order of this project that led to the amazing design and adventure featured in this article. compacting the area with countless stone The footing was excavated, lined, protected no portion of the liner would be cemented deliveries. He was very busy at the time, so and ready for a short pour of concrete, which over. The vertical rock was set perfectly. after he broke up the soil, it was all hands on was a nightmare in and of itself. We chained it to Matt’s front-end loader deck to start digging out the reservoir, or so It was time to reach out to Matt again, and let it sit overnight. One crucial step was I thought. as we needed him to set the vertical rock just complete, with more to soon follow. I realized that the 6-by-6-by-2 footing, after the concrete was poured. I had the verti- Now that the liner was in and the verti- which would be situated in the center, had cal rock strapped perfectly, and it was ready cal support stone was securely in place, it was to be formed and excavated first. Once that to go. Unfortunately, the shoot would not time to precisely measure, cut and drill the was complete, we followed up with our reach our footing area. The only thing we area on the underside of the large, slab-style Liquid Designz unique, thick gray underlay, had to do was pull up the liner so I could stone that would be placed on top. We could followed by the 25-by-50 main liner. We then get in close with the MT52. I also made it only pray that those holes lined up with the added another layer of the thick gray fabric. very clear to my foreman to be careful that vertical stone where our galvanized steel

November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 13 pins were recessed. Again, it would require Let’s just say that one company gave me a perfect. The design, though small in actual Matt in his machine, my foreman and yours price to build our manifolds for $10,000, real estate, was our most challenging to truly on the ground. We had one side of and that wasn’t happening. The easy part date. Its beauty during the day and night, the boulder labeled “Street,” which was our was determining the correct pumps needed with water and no water, is the most grati- guide. As precise as our cut and drilled holes to create such a strong water push, with fying part to me. a for the steel pins had to be, we were almost serious flow at low head. The real challenge The gold standard in aquatic plant excellence. dead-on. The boulder was to be recessed onto was determining how to create a two-sided the vertical stone while we lined up the holes curtain of water so the vertical structure Plants grown in our new state of the art facility with the steel pins. The plan was to have could not be seen at all while running. A About the Author by growers with over 60 years of experience. Matt position the boulder over the center of series of 30 jets had to placed close, but not Jerry Romano founded Liquid the vertical stone while I would slightly spin too close, together to achieve the look we Designz LLC in We have an extensive selection of plants ready and hold it with the MT52. My foreman was were going for. 2005. He didn’t to plant or market. our eyes. It took a few shots, but we were Obviously, on our next install, there will always feel that • Marginals triumphant. It was such a relief to get this be a 360-degree visual, so the pumps will be building water portion of the design completed. that much stronger. We will use many more features would • Water Lilies jets, and we will move up to two 4-inch be his relentless • Lotus Challenges Abound passion. After lines, opposed to two 3-inch lines. • Floaters & Oxygenators Some acute aggravation followed. Our final challenge came after our first receiving All American honors Remember how we were rushed with the test run. I had to figure out how I would • Combination Planters control the splashing outwards while the as one of the top punters in the nation, short pour? Well, as I went out the follow- he decided to pursue his dream of intense water pressure was hitting the ing morning to start pulling out the liner punting in the NFL. After a number to gauge our reservoir excavation, I real- underside of our floating boulder. To make of invitations to camps, he realized ized a section of our liner had gotten under this work and form that illusion, the water that this particular dream would not a portion of the cement. To say I was livid from the jets had to be perfectly straight come to fruition. He soon realized he would be an understatement. So with a little on the way up and again on the way down could have the best of both worlds by demo, sawing very carefully, I was finally able — similar to bumpers on a pool table, if developing Liquid Designz LLC during to free the liner. I did not have to compro- you will. This took a bit of creativity. The the week while punting footballs on mise the footing, of course; I just had to cut underside of the rock surface obviously had Saturdays. Eighteen years and eight away a fair amount of excess concrete. to be cushioned in such a way. I had the teams later, he was inducted into the Minor League Football Hall of Fame Next, our reservoir was hand-dug with perfect solution and I nailed it the first time. in 2015. Meanwhile, he has grown the aid of our Bosch electric jackhammer There's unique creativity, and then Liquid Designz LLC into one of the and formed a 600-gallon reservoir in a there's “way outside the box” creativity. most recognized water feature compa- horseshoe shape. Once completed, the most But none of it matters unless the design nies operating in the northeastern difficult part of the design was up next. comes to fruition and the execution is United States.

Whether you have a retail store or do installations exclusively, we have solutions for both. From pre-planned assortments to customizable solutions, we can help take the guess work out of Call it "insane" or a "miracle." Either way, this assembling a healthy balanced mix. Contact us for a catalog or to schedule a salesman visit. feature certainly defies your everyday design. 1.800.788.8547 • www.netherlandbulb.com • [email protected] 14 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com Hourly Rates

by Tom Grandy, Grandy & Associates

early everyone in the trade industry cringes a bit when it comes time to raise his or her hourly rate. Is the new rate too high? NWill it be too far above our competition's rate? Will our customers leave us? Is it really OK for me, the owner, to make more money? Besides, is raising my rate really fair to our customers? These are the kinds of questions that often go through the minds of most company owners as they go through the mental gymnastics of whether to raise their hourly rate. The fear factor of raising our rates — even when completely justified — is huge.

The Corporate Strategy Has your insurance agent ever called you with fear and trembling to ask if it was OK to increase the cost of your policy? No, of course not. They simply sent you the bill with the new rate and didn’t think twice about it. The new, higher-priced invoice was simply sent to you, and you had to pay it — like it or not! What about McDonald’s? When was the last time McDonald’s took a customer survey to see if it was OK to raise the price of a Big Mac by 50 cents? Right, they never asked. Why didn’t they ask? The answer is simple. They run a profit and loss statement every month on every product they serve. When the profit margin begins to slip on the Big Mac, what $ happens? The price goes up. If they didn’t raise the price of the Big Mac, profits would begin to fall, and stockholders would be yelling. If the rising costs were not passed on to their customers, profit would not only fall, but eventually, they would also lose money The and go out of business. That is not a good situation for McDonald’s or their customers. $ McDonald’s has total confidence in their product. FEAR Factor They know they have a great product, and they know customers will pay the price — whatever it may be — when they come through the drive-thru. The Have the courage to customer doesn’t drive to McDonald’s because they raise your hourly rates $ have the lowest-priced burger in town. They come

16 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 17 to McDonald’s because they love their product Now, some of you could be thinking, “Gee, price shoppers are not your customers. The the years. When a contractor does quality Charge what you need to charge in order to — in this case, the Big Mac. The price goes up, Tom, I can’t raise my rates even through I am now contractor who wins the bid war with the work, does what they said they would do and cover costs and generate a reasonable profit. the customer pays the new price, and McDonald's totally convinced it is costing me money. If I do, my price shopper actually loses. You get the job, shows up on time, price is not even on the You will be glad you did! a maintains their profitability. The principle seems rates will be higher than most of my competition. and not only can you not make money on it, Top 10 list of considerations. That’s right simple enough, but most trade company owners My customers won’t pay it, and besides, I really but it keeps you from doing other profitable — if you consistently do these three things, work. price fades from being one of the determin- The next thing the customer wants is for ing factors in having your company do the About the Author Fear is a very powerful thing. It tends to paralyze us in the sense that you to do what you said you would do. You work! Tom Grandy has more than 35 when we are afraid of anything, we tend to do nothing. When it comes have described the repair, remodel or instal- years of experience in industry and small to running a business, doing nothing or failing to make necessary lation of the pond. Just do what you said you Find & Charge Your Rate business. He has worked as the general were going to do. manager of a service Remember that the fear factor of raising changes can literally put the company out of business. The third thing the customer wants is for company and is the you to want you to do what you said you your rates is not on the part of the customer. founder of Grandy & It is on the part of your company. still struggle when it comes time to raise their don’t think I am worth what I will be charging.” would do when you said you would do it. Associates, a firm that Fear is a very powerful thing. It tends holds seminars, two day pricing. This article is designed to help readers Hello, is anyone listening? Your costs of doing If there is one common complaint among to paralyze us in the sense that when we are workshops and one-on- overcome the fear factor of raising their rates. business went up. Raising your pricing is not — I customers in every trade across the country, it is the fact that contractors do not show up afraid of anything, we tend to do nothing. one consulting for busi- $ repeat — is not an option. It’s a necessity! When it comes to running a business, doing ness training. Grandy & Don’t Be the Mule when they say they will be there. If you told nothing or failing to make necessary changes Associates also writes The Three Keys the customer you were going to start on the Do you remember the old story about the mule can literally put the company out of business. articles for numerous trade publications. new pond Thursday morning, be there. If Tom routinely presents at national and and the two-by-four? The mule had to be hit with Today’s customer is looking for three things. Do the math, find out what you really $ you told the customer you would be at their state conventions. For contractors who the two-by-four to get its attention before it would First, they want quality work done. If you have home to make the repair between 10 a.m. need to charge per hour and recalculate your are serious about profitable growth, respond to a command. Well, fellow contractors, seen the results of the studies, you will quickly and noon, be there. If you must change the rate at least twice a year. Once you find out we also offer our two-day “Planning for consider yourselves having just been hit with a two- notice that 80 percent of the population still wants time, that’s fine, but call the customer and what you need to charge, charge it! Don’t be Profit” at numerous locations across the $ by-four. Your costs are going up, and your pricing quality work done. The other 20 percent are price communicate with them ahead of time. afraid. Remember, improper labor pricing is country. Go to www.GrandyAssociates. needs to at least cover the increase, if not exceed it. shoppers and are not your customers. I repeat — I have found a rather startling reality over the No. 1 killer of trade companies today. com or call 800/432-7963.

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18 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 19 MADE IN THE USA Language of Koi

Antibiotic injections are a highly effective tool in the fight against bacterial infections. STILL #1

FRESH NEW LOOK! SAME TOP QUALITY FOOD! Keep it Clear How to recognize & prevent bacterial infections

PONDS, BIRDBATHS & by Casey LeFever, quickly progress to an open, typically circular hole Blue Ridge Koi and Goldfish in the fish’s body. Eventually, the ulcer will work its way through to the organs, causing death. Fin acterial infections are among the most rot typically starts at the edge of the fins and works unsightly and frustrating health issues that koi dealers and keepers alike are Fin rot can be Blikely to experience in their journey. As a seen here on the dorsal fin. dealer, arming yourself with information on the causes, prevention and treatment of bacte- rial infections not only can keep your stock healthy, but it can also build trust and confi- dence in your customers.

How They Present Bacterial infections manifest in koi in three ways — ulcers, fin rot and mouth rot. In each Microbe-Lift Products are now Enforced by Our MAPP Policy! instance, the bacteria are eating away and destroy- its way inward, although you may occasionally see ing tissue on the body of the fish. holes in the middle of a fin. Mouth rot, which Ulcers begin as a red, raised patch of scales on eats away at the tissue around the mouth area, scaled fish or as a small, circular, bluish-white spot commonly starts with abrasions or damage to www.MicrobeLift.com on scaleless fish. Left unchecked, the ulcer will the mouth. This is usually from the fish rubbing Providing Aquatic Solutions Since 1976 November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 21 against nets or the sides of the eliminating or reducing the tank, opening a pathway for the underlying cause will only result infection to set in. in recurring infections.

The Two Offenders Things to Look Out The majority of bacterial For infections in koi are caused by If your water quality is poor one of two bacteria — pseudo- for an extended period of time, monas and aeromonas. Both with parameters far outside the pseudomonas and aeromonas acceptable range for koi, this are naturally occurring and can stress your fish and lead ubiquitous in pond and tank to infection. Measuring water water. They are always there, parameters, understanding what and your fish are always exposed you’re seeing and knowing how to them. You can never rid an to bring them back to accept- aquaculture system of them able levels is key, not only in completely. bacterial infection prevention, Although removed from the market, it is still possible to make your own medicated food (left). Proper filter cleaning techniques (right) are an important part of When discussing bacterial but also in the overall health of bacterial issue prevention. infections, I often liken pseu- your fish. domonas and aeromonas to Overcrowding or overstock- Control Your Levels well. Your mechanical filtration removes you about bacterial infections and how common viruses in humans. solid waste from the water column and to treat them. Here are some options ing a tank or pond can also The levels of pseudomonas and As a living, breathing being quickly lead to bacterial infec- traps it in the filter. The filter must be for treatment. But remember, treating is moving about the world, you aeromonas present in a pond or tank tion. Not only does it stress the cleaned and flushed periodically in order only half the battle. If you don’t combine are regularly exposed to viruses. can vary greatly. Just because it’s natu- fish, but overstocking a pond to remove the solid waste and send it treatment with reduction or elimination When you’re healthy, with rally occurring doesn’t mean that it has with more fish than the filtra- down the drain. Infrequent cleaning of of the initial cause of the bacterial infec- a fully functioning immune to exist at a high level. Taking the proper tion is equipped to handle can the filter means that solid waste cannot system, you don’t get sick. But steps to keep the bacteria levels in check also quickly get you into trouble be trapped by the filter media, resulting when your health decreases, will go a long way toward preventing with the quality of your water. whether it’s through physical or Like all living beings, koi environmental stress, malnutri- require a balanced diet in proper Key Tip: Prevention vs. Treatment tion or any of a number of other stressors, your immune system quantities in order to remain As a retailer with limited tank space and a short selling season, you may want to consider removing infected fish immediately and focusing your efforts on preventing problems in weakens, and the likelihood of healthy. If your fish are not getting the nutrients they need your still-healthy stock, as opposed to devoting time and tank space attempting to treat you becoming sick increases. and cure fish that are already sick. Similarly, koi are exposed or not enough food in general, their health will decline, and Fin rot on to aeromonas and pseudomo- the tail bacterial infections may be just infection. nas all the time. When the fish in more waste in the water. An improper are healthy and their immune around the corner. Bacteria feed off the solid waste Unchecked parasite infec- excreted by fish, and too much solid cleaning technique can result in solid systems are fully functioning, waste from the filter getting sent back tions, they will only come back. they don’t become infected. tions can also drain the waste in the water column will result Ultraviolet (or UV) filters use ultravi- resources available to a fish’s in a bacteria load that is too high to be into your tanks, where it’s harmful and But, if their immune systems stressful to the fish, instead of down the olet rays to control the growth of organic are compromised in some immune system, weakening considered healthy. A common mistake drain, where it belongs. bodies in your system water. UV filters manner, their natural resistance the immune-system function comes from hanging several nets in a will not have any curative effect and will Water changes are also a valuable tool to the bacteria can start to fail, and increasing the likelihood tank and keeping fish in the nets with not solely prevent bacterial infections in the fight against bacterial infections. which often leads to infection. of a secondary bacterial infec- nothing swimming in the tank under- from occurring, but they will help to Regular and frequent water changes can There are many different tion. Some parasites like anchor neath. The solid waste from the fish reduce the bacteria population in your help to control and lessen the bacteria stressors that can compromise worms, fish lice and flukes can in the nets sinks to the bottom of the water and should be considered a part of load in a heavily stocked system. At or weaken a koi’s immune even punch tiny, microscopic tank and collects there. This is a breed- your long-term solution. system and increase the likeli- holes into the protective slime ing ground for harmful bacteria, but it is times, we water change 10 to 20 percent Medicated koi food was recently hood that an infection will set coat on a fish, presenting an easily solved by keeping a few larger fish per day in a heavily stocked system. removed from the U.S. retail market by in. Identifying, understanding opportunity for the harmful under the nets to keep the waste stirred the FDA in the fight against overuse of and reducing or eliminating bacteria to bypass the protective up and headed down the drain and into Solve the Problem antibiotics. However, it is still possible From top to bottom: An advancing ulcer is present on the body of a scaled fish. A bigger ulcer is seen on a doitsu (scaleless) fish. Fin rot these stressors is key. Treating layer and begin eating away at your filter, where it belongs. So, you’ve got bacterial infections in in some instances to obtain a veterinar- advances on this fish. An ulcer presents on a scaled fish. the infection in the fish without the tissue underneath. Properly cleaning your filters is key as your fish, or you have a customer asking ian prescription for antibiotics that can

22 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 PONDPOND Trade Trade Magazine Magazine 23 23 be top-dressed onto pellet food and fed difficult and expensive, and it is generally to maintain a healthy environment and to fish with bacterial infections. reserved only for high-value (whether in reduce stress in your stock. Be prepared While medicated food can heal fish money or sentimentality) fish. to treat any issues that do happen to arise, BREAKING that have just started to show minor Tricide-Neo is an antibiotic dip and you can maintain steady fish sales symptoms of infection, it will not heal fish developed at the University of Georgia while engendering trust and confidence with advanced infections. The real advan- for prevention and treatment of ulcers in your fish customers. a tage of medicated food comes in the form in koi. Although I do not have personal NEWS! of prevention. We have regularly used experience with Tricide-Neo, I have medicated food in a population of fish heard accounts from enough hobbyists to The 2019 Season Kicks Off where a small percentage showed signs believe in its effectiveness in the treatment About the Author of bacterial infection, and we felt that of bacterial infections. with Exciting News in The Pond Casey LeFever the majority of the population were not When possible, heating pond or tank is co-owner of NextDayKoi.com and part of the & Water Feature Industry sellable because of their high likelihood water up to 78 to 82 degrees can be benefi- third-generation of developing infections. A two-week cial in the fight against bacterial infections. Anjon Manufacturing & Savio Engineering have future ownership application of medicated food ceased any Not only are bacteria less active at these united to become the premier manufacturer of of Blue Ridge Koi professional pond & water feature equipment. further infections from developing. After temperatures, but the warm water also and Goldfish, a brief observation period, the fish can be gives the koi an immune-system boost. the largest and We’re proud to announce Savio skimmers, deemed sellable once again. Warm water alone will not prevent or heal longest-running waterfalls, filters & weirs are, once again, It is also possible to inject fish with bacterial infections, but it can be a helpful koi farm in the all MADE IN THE USA! antibiotics in order to halt a bacterial tool in combination with other treatment United States. He infection. The most common antibiotic options, particularly antibiotics. was brought home Quality & availability are better than ever! used for injection is Baytril, which also While ulcers are unsightly and frustrat- from the hospital and weighed in a requires a prescription. While injection ing to deal with, they don’t have to have feeder goldfish bucket at just a few is the most effective method for treating a major negative impact on your short days old, and he has been around fish For over 20 years, we’ve built Anjon Savio set the industry standard on a simple, winning concept – offer for engineered pond equipment a bacterial infection, it is also the most koi-selling window each year. Take steps ever since. the best products in their category, in 2002. Our Skimmerfilters price them competitively, stock & Livingponds waterfall filters changed the paradigm for inventory to meet peak demand & serve customers with quality in the pond industry. A waterfall filter UV joins our our knowledgeable sales & service team. patented skimmer UV option in 2019. Great Anjon Manufacturing Serves Pond & Water Feature Distributors, Irrigation & Landscape Suppliers, O -Season ® Sale Item! ARCTIC Garden Centers & Nurseries With More Product Lines Than Any Manufacturer. Blend You Now Have Access to the Widest Range of Proven, Innovative Products, In-Stock at Competitive Prices. The Next Ge neration of Cold Water Bene cial Bacteria Arctic Blend® prevents poor winter water conditions, losses and stresses that can cause spring outbreaks of pathogenic outbreaks. Just one easy treatment every other week and your pond and sh will be in perfect condition in the spring!

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24 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com Throughout the day ,“deep-dive” sessions Aquascape Contractors who are experts in applications in residential settings. More Pondemonium Recap covering topics from accounting to opera- their featured topic. classroom workshops were available for tions to marketing were provided by a Friday morning, Greg Wittstock, owner those not attending the tour. The afternoon variety of Aquascape experts. and CEO of Aquascape, presented his featured a panel discussion of former recipi- Early-morning educational and annual inspirational Pondemonium keynote ents of the Aquascape Water Feature Artist networking discussions known as Cup of address to a packed room of water feature of the Year award. The Pondemonium An Attitude of Gratitude Coffee roundtables started the day on both professionals. Classroom sessions followed Blow-Out Bash, complete with live music, Friday and Saturday. A variety of topics the keynote and focused on construction, food and human foosball, brought the A look back at Aquascape's Pondemonium 2018 were discussed by industry experts from business operations, retail and marketing annual event to a close. around the world. Presentations and discus- topics. The evening came to a close with a Pondemonium 2019 is slated for Aug. by Jennifer Zuri, ing sessions and workshop classrooms. “An including Stanley Genadek of Dirt Monkey sions included water feature construction, special Casino Night fund-raiser to benefit 21 – 25 in St. Charles, Illinois. For infor- marketing techniques, human resource the Aquascape Foundation. mation on Pondemonium and Aquascape Aquascape Attitude of Gratitude” was the theme for University. this year’s special anniversary event. Hands-on training events were the focus practices, accounting principles and more. Saturday’s events included a local pond training provided throughout the year, Many sessions were moderated by Certified tour exploring a variety of water feature visit www.aquascapetraining.com. a his year, Aquascape cele- Thursday, with a custom decorative foun- brated the 20th anniversary of Daily Summary tain water feature installed by Certified Pondemonium, the water feature Pondemonium opened Wednesday Aquascape Contractors at the Q Center T with a first-time Digital Marketing Summit training facility in St. Charles. Foremen industry’s premier training and network- ing event. Hundreds of contractors, retail- that focused on bringing water features to and those new to pond building attended This Year's ers and distributors were in attendance life through video, vlogging and digital a morning classroom session followed by a from Aug. 22 – 26, 2018 in St. Charles, marketing. Several high-profile vloggers hands-on waterfall-building contest in the Winners

Illinois, to participate in hands-on train- were in attendance to provide expertise, afternoon to apply the skills they learned. Awards were presented throughout Pondemonium, with Aquascape Top 20 contractors and Top 20 retailers receiving “Top Frogs.” Four individu- als also received the following coveted annual specialty awards: Certified Aquascape Contractor of the Year – Chris Tallarico of NJ Pond Guys LLC in Jackson, New Jersey. (top, left) Businessman of the Year – Jaak Harju of Atlantis Water Gardens in Denville, New Jersey. (top, right) Artist of the Year – Dan Harp of Mark The Pond Guy in Sumner, Washington. (bottom, right) Conservationist of the Year – David and Kristen Austin of Waterpaw in Boyne City, Michigan. (bottom, left)

26 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 27 Best Practices

(Still) Be Still, My Pond Part two of crafting that 'still-pond' look

by Kent Wallace, with a slab poured below ground level to support Living Water Solutions the airlift bioreactor tanks that were to be buried. A surface slab was formed and poured for the upflow sand and gravel filter placement. The 6-foot-deep, elcome back to the second half of 500-gallon prefilter tank was set in a concrete slurry the story of Chad’s dream pond. As to conform to the shape of the tank bottom. The I mentioned in the previous article, total weight of all four tanks when full is more than Wwhich appeared in the September/October 2018 issue, Chad’s formal, “still” pond is mostly 11,000 pounds, so the slabs for each of these is 6 gravity flow with only the upflow sand and inches thick and reinforced with rebar. Once the gravel filter operated with a traditional pump. I tanks are set, the plumbing can begin. The plumbing for a large gravity-flow system was attempting to create the most state-of-the- may appear challenging, but there is a benefit to art pond possible. a carefully laid-out system. The object is to layer “State-of-the-art” to me means using the all the piping in one main trench as efficiently as least amount of energy possible. This consists of four 4-inch lines for the possible for the amount SERIES: bottom drains, four 3-inch lines for the vertical of work done and creat- Best Pond Practices returns, six 1 ½-inch return lines, one additional ing a passively managed This is an installmentof 4-inch line from the sand and gravel filter to the system with as few compli- an ongoing, multi-part series. upper pool, three 2-inch lines from the skimmers cated pieces of equipment Be sure to watch for further and mid-water drain, four ¾-inch lines for the as possible. This is one of installments in future issues! aerated bottom drains, two ¾-inch auto-fill lines the reasons I have been and one 3-inch drainage line connected to each using my version of the radial separator concept filter in a row. Once those are installed, the ¾-inch for prefiltration. A radial separator is an old-school lines for the airlifts and the aerated bioreactors settlement tank with a twist. Traditionally the along with the lines for the water-flushing system radial separator was used in aquaculture, where a for each filter are laid on top. It’s a great feeling constant water level can be managed. I advanced when you see all that piping being covered over the concept with my floating circular weirs, so a with dirt. fluctuating water level is possible. A 500-gallon Almost the entire system is designed without tank can flow up to 20,000 gallons per hour with a valves. The 4-inch drain lines into the radial sepa- water level fluctuation of 6 to 7 inches. rator use stand pipes inside the center chamber of the prefilter to shut off each individual drain, and Plumbing the Tank the outflow from the filters is regulated by pipe To start, a line was marked along the wall size to balance the lines. The three 2-inch lines behind the filtration area to establish the finished water line. In gravity-flow systems, this is a critical Opposite page: The finished pond (top) looks just like Damon’s original drawing. The piping (bottom, left) was step, and everything gets measured from that mark layered in the trench. The finished polyurea (bottom, right) forward. The hole for the filter tanks was excavated, is shown with Laticrete applied to the top 6 inches for tile.

28 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 29 from the skimmers and mid-water drain until a new pump arrives, depending on finish. The use of Bond-Kote speeds up can each have a ball valve to balance the its designated use. For instance, the pumps the whole process. The polyurea can be flow if needed. For large drain-downs, the for the airlifts are very important, whereas applied as soon as the Bond-Kote is cured. skimmers can be shut down, and the water the pumps for the bottom drain aerators This can often be the same day or the can be drawn all the way down to the mid- are less important. following day. Bond-Kote seals the chem- water intake. The only other valves are the ical moisture in the concrete away from 2-inch outlet ports for cleaning each filter. Shooting the Shell the polyurea. Paul Parszik from Artisan Each filter is tied into a single 3-inch line Aquatics applied the polyurea and was The shotcrete crew was there until dark that goes around the house and ties into there two weeks after the shotcrete shell finishing up the basic form. A week later, the sewer cleanout for draining. was formed. the Bond-Kote finish was applied. When The air pump station is located inside Laguna Pools was to apply a 6-inch using polyurea as the sealing surface, the existing pool filter area across from upper tile edge to the surface of the poly- the filtration. This made the electrical concrete needs at least a 28-day standard urea on the inside perimeter below the hookup easier, but there was still a set of cure time before application. The surface top cap. Not much of anything sticks to eight ¾-inch air lines that needed to be needs to be parged smoothly, with all the polyurea once it’s cured, so we coated the organized — one for each bottom drain roughness removed. Coating the surface top 6 inches of polyurea with Laticrete aerator, two for the airlifts and two for the with a mortar or cement mix doesn’t work 9235. Laticrete 9235 is a waterproofing aerated biofilters for the six 80-lpm Medo as well as Bond-Kote. Polyurea has a reac- sealant on its own, but it’s made specifi- air pumps. Two air pumps are for the four tion to the moisture in concrete and can cally for tile and mastic installation. The bottom drains set on timers. Two pumps pinhole during the first coat. This is dealt Laticrete substitutes for the stainless-steel for the two airlifts and two more for the with one pinhole at a time, so preventing lath normally applied to polyurea as a pair of bioreactors make up the other four. pinholes from the beginning is essential. mechanical attachment. The Laticrete Using the same air pump for each device The chemical makeup of Bond-Kote has was applied just a couple of hours after makes the system more reliable. If a pump something in it that polyurea likes, rarely the polyurea was finished, which allowed fails, you can decide whether to swap it for creating pinholes. This makes the process them to bond together permanently. one of the other pumps or leave it alone go more quickly and creates a much better It’s a simple formula: polyurea likes

The upper pool (top) has pillars for the Foo Dogs and laticrete on the top 6 inches of polyurea. When I say, "No hard 90s" (left), I mean it!! The fish are in (right), and aerators are working.

30 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 31 Laticrete, and Laticrete toward the surface. You system first. I added Ponddigger beneficial likes tile mastic. know when it’s on, because it starter bacteria and 1 gallon of ammonia to violently disturbs the surface the pond, which shot the ammonia reading Final Assembly when operating. Along with off the scale. Now we had to be patient. After While Laguna worked on the auto-fill lines, the char- about a week, we started to see nitrites. A few the finishing touches for the coal filter serves the power days later, we started to see some nitrates. pond, pool and barbecue, we flushing lines for the filters Chad had contacted Shawn McHenry of assembled the components of and has a small valve at the Mystic Koi, who agreed to fly up and help move his fish the following weekend. During the filters and the air pump end of the manifold as a test that second week, the ammonia readings station. Chad and I decided sample port to see when the started to go down drastically, as the nitrites to add a charcoal filter to canister needs changing. and nitrates climbed. A couple of days before the incoming water line so The last touch was craning Shawn arrived, the ammonia went to zero, he didn’t have to constantly in the Foo Dogs. Luckily, and the nitrites were low, but the nitrates were the lot behind the pond was add dechlorinator with each high. On the last day before Shawn’s arrival, vacant at the time, allowing water change. There are two the nitrates went to zero, eliminating the need crane access. With the Foo lines for filling the pond. for another large water change. The daytime The first is the auto-fill, and Dogs installed, we could temperatures are at their highest in Las Vegas the second is a line that goes start filling the pond with during August, so they moved the fish in the directly into the pond. This water. The pond ended up at middle of the night, when the temperature makes filling faster than a volume of 16,400 gallons was slightly cooler. waiting for the auto-fill, and when fully operational. Chad This was a fun project, because we made it I had it placed just below the was anxious to move his fish, look exactly like the original drawing Damon “One of these things is not like the other.” surface with a schedule-80, but with more than 15 large Lang of Green Planet Landscaping created, 45-degree fitting aimed koi, we wanted to “kick” the and I was offered the opportunity to build the functional part of the system as I saw fit. This was one of those projects that makes you feel thankful for the opportunity. a NOTICE TO INDUSTRY: Canada stops ALL imports of Koi from Israel due to KHV! DON’T TAKE THE RISK - BUY ONLY AMERICAN BRED KOI! ! READ MORE AT: https://www.kloubeckoi.com/blog/ ! About the Author Kent Wallace was born and raised in Las Vegas. Kent spent most of his adult life in the automobile industry at inde- pendent shops and dealerships, including his own shop as a racecar fabricator at age 24. Then, in 2001, a neighbor asked Kent if he could BUY DIRECT FROM THE BREEDER! build her a koi pond like the one Kent’s P Healthiest Koi in the USA father had. From that point on, pond building P SHIPPED TO YOUR DOOR Year-Round Availability became his new passion. That first pond P he built was submitted to Better Homes .com Overnight Shipping & Gardens magazine and won Best kloubeckoi P 1375 Baxter Avenue, Platinum Koi Cuisine Courtyard Nationwide in their special- interest publication. P Amana, Iowa USA HUGE Indoor Facility livingwatersolutions.com 319.846.2077 Call today and ask about our Health Certificates 702/845-6782

32 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 33 800-448-3873 www.easypro.com [email protected]

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800-448-3873 EASYPRO.COM Cover Story Japanese Garden Design A journey through the modern, western Japanese Garden &

by Jerome Skuba, History of Japanese Gardens Zoen Sekkei-Sha & Associates Moving through the Japanese garden is a journey, which is also the destination. In a land where space he beauty of water in the wild is unparalleled. is precious, the art of landscaping and garden design Creators of Japanese gardens attempt to has been taken to very high limits of expression, capture the brilliance of water and consider with distinct formations that engage an aesthetic and Thow it will ultimately resonate with the viewer. philosophy that are completely unique from Western The Japanese refer to their gardens as Tei-en, traditions. Rocks and ponds are two of the most which translates as both “wild nature” and fundamental elements of the garden whose use can “controlled nature,” two opposing characteristics. It be traced back to prehistoric times. They are derived is in the exquisite balance of these two fundamental from “sacred spaces,” which predate the first gardens qualities that the Japanese garden finds a universal by at least 1,000 years. voice. The early gardens of Japan were not created From the grandeur of gardens seen in Han for aesthetic reasons; instead, they were sacred places (China), Japanese designers scaled the gardens to fit meant for prayers and rituals. However, they did the topographical and special conditions of Japan. contain powerful aesthetic components that would The gardens are smaller, with more concentrated be discovered and brought to the forefront in the effects that are reduced to the essence of nature. The future creation of gardens. fundamental relationships and intricacies that exist My fascination was with an aesthetic that is very among water, rocks, trees and sky express them- close to my own understanding of Tei-en, with Earth selves in the form of lakes, ponds, rivers, streams serving as the sculpture where the natural world and and waterfalls. the sparing hand of human presence mutually create Early Japanese garden builders also seemed, a contemplative environment. Tei-en combined with in my opinion, to be intuitively attuned to the niwa, the literal translation of “garden,” forms the variety of archetypes of the natural landscape. basic framework for stone, water and plants, the three The archetypes are the source images, some say, ingredients for designing a western Japanese garden. that reside in our subconscious mind. The well-

A waterfall cascades into a calm pool, as viewed from a stone bridge. (Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, Illinois.) November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 37 The reflectivity of a still surface draws into view the sky and surrounding landscape, concentric circles from raindrops, wind ripples and small waves, emphasizing the many moods that a pond can present.

known garden writer Julie Movement vs. Stillness Moir Messervy has identi- The reflectivity of a still fied seven archetypes that, surface draws into view the in some way, shape or form, sky and surrounding land- constitute all garden designs scape, concentric circles from and the feelings associated raindrops, wind ripples and with them, such as the sea small waves, emphasizing (immersing), the cave (nest- the many moods that a pond ling), the harbor or cove can present. All the possible (embracing), the promon- moods of weather effects on tory (extending), the island water are highly prized when (separating), the mountains seen from a small pavilion or (transforming) and the sky residence, sheltered in nature, (transcending). but not of nature. This The abundance of water tension between the natural flowing from mountain and human-defined elements streams provided clean, clear seeks to improve the quality water for use in ponds. The of life of the beholder. sites specifically chosen for Movement and stillness ponds allow water to flow are essential aspects of nature. through, flushing out stagnant Out of these two elements, contaminants — a cleans- great were created, tracing back to streams with ing action without using any tributaries, and finally to a mechanical means. mountain spring source. This This technology utilizes perspective offers a rich spec- gravity, only knowing that trum of design options to scale water always flows down hill. down into a garden setting. Water levels were efficiently Such ideas about nature controlled through a system of were imported from Han dams and weirs. The garden (China) and Korea in a builders drew upon the tech- process known as accultura- nology of wet rice culture, tion, where understanding which utilizes the intricate and reinterpretations are systems of channels for direct- tailored to fit the context of ing water from one growing the old culture within they terrace to another, flowing are now placed. This gives the down the mountain slope. indigenous elements of culture

Opposite page: An artfully composed stone arrangement of a pond shoreline (Como Park, Saint Paul, Minnesota). Top: A very refined, small residential garden with water basin. Right: An upstream view of a still-water pool created by a dammed stream (Anderson Japanese Gardens).

Photo by Evan Gelles November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 39 new meaning. Imported ideas found a reso- maquettes to flesh out what can and Building the garden in phases that are nant familiarity with the early Japanese needs to be done. I then roughly quantify broken down into affordable annual garden builders’ ancient animistic percep- what materials and plants will be used amounts, we can build a garden over a tions that natural objects — rocks, ponds and estimate a cost range from the high period of several years. Longer periods and islands — are not inanimate, but sacred to low end. This helps determine the size of construction in many cases can allow spirits. Animism is a belief where every- of the garden desired and what kind of a customer to evolve into a master plan. thing is thought to be alive and thus deeply resources the client is willing to devote to This approach requires a great amount of respected. Perhaps they were some of the a project, ultimately giving me direction patience. first proto-ecologists? to proceed. I take a sculptural approach in creat- The tradition of the Japanese garden as A large part of the plan is to have a ing a garden as it is being built. Remaining a seamless progression of accumulated ideas fully disclosed idea of the long-term costs open-ended allows for intuitive decisions formed over the course of 1,000 years has of the garden after it is built. The costs that are subject to change as construction assumed a refined, understated simplic- of maintaining a high-quality Japanese progresses. This is how an artist brings life garden will exceed the cost of building the ity, with extraordinary attention to detail to the design of the garden — working up garden many times over. Knowing this on and composition. Every part is vital for the from the details rather than adhering to a the front end determines the affordability creation as a whole, with careful placement master plan. The final plan that ends up on scaling and the customer’s commitment of the parts that make up the entirety. Every paper ends up being an as-built plan that is to follow through with appropriate main- archetype found in nature can be found completely accurate. tenance over the years to come. For main- somewhere in a Japanese garden. taining a high-quality Japanese garden can be like maintaining a high-end golf Engineering Simplicity Japanese Garden Design course, so proceed with caution! Building a Japanese garden is an art, I start the design process by making Occasionally I encounter clients a craft and an engineering project. The rough concept sketches or 1:1 scale with champagne taste and a beer budget. garden designer must be fluent in all

A Chrysanthemum flower (opposite page) inspired a stylized water basin (Minnesota Landscape Arboretum). The distant waterfall (above, left) is seen from the pathway and bridge. A Japanese Maple grows on the far side of the garden (Anderson Japanese Gardens).

November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 41 Photo by Magdalena Wells

spo »Control your pond & garden with an app« OASE Easy Garden Control (EGC) System* allows complete control of product the necessary skills to master- loaded with water basins, stone in and around your pond with your smart phone or tablet. Connect to the fully make everything work in , pagodas or statuary of OASE Cloud to control your EGC system anywhere in the world! concert and last at least a genera- any kind. Less is more in this tion. Skilled trades are also vital case. Otherwise, one destroys the for building beyond the scope of simplicity that is vital for a tran- the individual garden designer. quil space. The designer functions as a Plantings are kept to a fairly project manager, too, as leader limited palette of green leaf of the team’s progression toward Japanese maples, flowering cherry, completion. pines, cypresses, azaleas, magno- Assembling high-quality rock lias, rhododendrons, boxwoods, often takes time and a keen eye Japanese yews, ground covers, for picking and choosing from a ferns and several species of mosses. quarry or gravel pit. Unique, beau- Choosing dwarf plants for the tiful stones need to be avoided, garden only creates a “munch- since they call undue attention kin garden,” where the only thing to themselves. Accessorizing the missing is a yellow brick road. garden with cultural artifacts also Japanese gardens are not very requires a very discriminating eye floriferous. The only blossoms so that the garden is not over- tolerated are incidental to the plants

A pine island (top) connected by two stone bridges (Como Park). A gentle trickle of water (right) pours into a rustic water basin.

November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 43 A sheeting waterfall is seen themselves and bloom in their own each as unique and as simple as can ing quality to life. Pond sizes were designed in upstream from the pathway time. The Japanese love flowers but be imagined. Often these gardens are My design practice concen- a way to maintain even water (Minnesota Landscape Arboretum). avoid introducing too much color, crafted by a homeowner with occa- trates on Sukiya gardens, which temperatures by limiting full sun since the color distracts from the sional guidance from professional can be surprisingly very afford- exposure to no more than four to rest of the garden. gardeners. These small gardens are able for many homeowners. six hours a day. The majority of larger gardens part of Sukiya-styled architecture, Though we understand and are located in the public domain which is Japan’s primary form of There Is a Season appreciate the four seasons of — botanical gardens, arboretums, residential architecture from the Japanese gardens are created the year, there is something very public parks, private estates, art 17th century to present day. with all four seasons in mind. unique acknowledged in Japan museums, show gardens at hotels Sukiya living environments, Each season displays an inher- that is based on its agricultural and elegant inns, corporate and or the combination of a home, its ent uniqueness. Spring offers the roots. In ancient times, the foundations grounds, Buddhist interior spaces and the surrounding emerging and awakening delights Japanese divided their year into Temple compounds and those garden, are meant to be viewed from of running waters, melted ice 24 periods based on classical considered part of the Japanese inside the building. At the center in ponds, breaking buds and Chinese sources. The year comes Imperial House Holdings. Many of this unified property is a grace- sprouting leaves, blossoming to life in the vividly named gardens are designated as important ful, high-quality home that avoids ephemerals and early flowering subdivisions of the Japanese cultural heritage properties by the clutter and ostentation. It is visually of the cherry trees. It reminds calendar. Japanese government. integrated with exterior spaces. The everyone of the life cycle, always There are actually 72 micro- hallmarks include skilled craftsman- moving on to the next season. seasons, each lasting approxi- Sukiya Gardens ship, the ample use of natural mate- Summer brings out the full mately five days. Each is also The majority of gardens are rials, light, elegant proportions and character of trees and shrubs, linked with an observation This view encompasses all the essence of a Japanese-style garden residential and thus smaller in respect for the human scale. The followed by autumn and the made centuries ago and corre- (Como Park). size. There are thousands of these overall mood is one of quiet elegance color changes of leaves in prepa- lated with subtle changes as each Photo by Magdalena Wells throughout Japan, rural and urban, surrounded by natural beauty, bring- ration for winter’s dormancy. year progresses. This practice

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44 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 45 was likely started by farmers who accu- apply those understandings in creating mulated observations made over time. magnificent waterscapes. Observations were made, for example, As the saying goes, and as we water where a certain plant bloomed, when shapers need to remember, “Do not seek 888-236-8621 certain birds arrived, when the rice was to follow in the footsteps of the Masters. WWW.UNIVERSALPONDSUPPLY.COM to be planted, when fruits were to be Seek what they sought.” a harvested, when a specific butterfly emerged from its cocoon and so forth. In their present form, they offer a poetic WHY PURCHASE FROM US journey through the Japanese year, where About the Author land awakens and blooms with life and • The industry’s most competitive early For more than 50 years, activity before returning to slumber. order, in-season pricing, and terms Jerome Skuba of Zoen Sekkei- As water shapers, we study the ways of programs. Sha & Associates water and ponds. This is vital to under- FALL has been on an standing how water works to resonate with ESSENTIALS • Over 3,000 products from 50 different exploratory path, manufacturers. the garden viewer. It took the Japanese working as an garden builders 1,000 years of trial and ornamental horti- • Programs for all re-wholesalers, error, a skill honed through acute observa- culturist, art school dealers, contractors, and drop ship tions made in the wilderness — not in a professor, indus- companies. classroom or book. It must be experienced trial designer, firsthand to see and understand the ways of builder and • Fully stocked warehouse with a 98% water. It is important to remember that the garden designer. Jerome's gardens product fill rate. language of the garden is nature. have been featured in Architectural We struggle and strive over a lifetime Digest magazine, and he is a contrib- The koi fish, always seeking something to eat, continually greet adults and children (Anderson to master the skills of pond building, to utor to articles in Sukiya Living: The Japanese Gardens). grasp the essence of nature’s lessons and Journal of Japanese Gardening.

Our Manufacturers

Contact Your Rep Today to learn more DAN BERG MIKE ZMINA JANNINE RICHTER JOSEPH GAVER MIKE WEBB General Manager Western Sales Manager Eastern Sales Manager Client Partner - Technical Services Client Partner - Relationship Liaison 508 216 4464 847 372 6997 609 685 7259 888-236-8621 x 120 443 617 4113 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] NEED ASSISTANCE? CALL 888-236-8621 EXT. 152 Don't Miss Out We have programs for all size companies

46 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com Demi Fortuna (Atlantic Water Gardens) explains the proper installation methods of Pump Vaults to increase pump life. Ron Hatt (Rep Masters), Andrew Brown (IMG) and Bryan Blackford (CPS Distributors) pictured. Atlantic Recap

2018 Atlantic Professional Conference Waterscape specialists convene in Cleveland

by Lora Lee Gelles, not only enjoy themselves, but also have conversations POND Trade magazine about pond-building experiences, problems, successes, and funny stories. It’s great to bond with like-minded hh, my first Atlantic Professional Conference! people, and we all know there are so many fascinating I would call this one short, but sweet. It people in the pond-building industry. The day was started on a Wednesday, and unfortunately, topped off with a delicious dinner at the Pine Lake IA missed the business coaching with Yolanda Ortiz of Trout Club. Corazon Business Coaching. The buzz among Atlantic On Thursday, we got down to business. We started contractors was that her team-building exercise on off with a presentation about Atlantic’s product how to effectively communicate and how to plan systems, and specifically how , formal spill- for long-term goals was highly informative. way, pond-free, water garden and lighting products Sorry to have missed all that great information! The combine and interchange within each system to create hospitality room was open early, and what better place numerous options and greatly simplify installs. Next to sit and relax and watch a room full of contractors up was a rollout of Atlantic’s new products, and they’ve

The Atlantic Water Gardens second annual Professional Conference was held Sept. 5-6 in Cleveland, Ohio.

48 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 49 Heath Webb (left) and Shane Hemphill (right). 2018 Contractors sure been busy. There will be new with a night out at the Cleveland of the Year additions to the fountain and formal Aquarium, which was closed to the spillway systems, along with a total public for the night. Cocktails and Congratulations to Shane Hemphill and Heath lighting redesign for next season. A hors d'oeuvres were served as attend- Webb of Art of the Yard, the 2018 Atlantic Professional class on adding dollars to the coffers ees mingled, enjoying the private Contractors of the Year! Shane and Heath were honored with maintenance rounded out the viewing of the facility. Before dinner at the Second Annual Atlantic Professional Conference September 5-6, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. Serving Denver, morning. was served, the Atlantic “Contractor Colorado, and the surrounding communities, Shane and In the afternoon, we bused over to of the Year” was announced. This Heath have 30 years of combined experience transform- the Atlantic headquarters, where we year’s recipients, Shane Hemphill ing their customers’ yards into places they never want to rotated through hands-on classes on and Heath Webb of Art of the Yard, leave. They deliver the highest quality to their customers plumbing design, pump tear-down, received the award from the two in everything they do, from new water features to mainte- concealment of equipment, lighting previous winners, Gerard Touhey nance plans and everything in between. Shane and Heath in the hardscape, pond maintenance of Water Features by Gerard and don’t have time to become complacent in what they do. and construction tips. Rex McCaskill of Pond Professors. They are always pushing the envelope by trying new prod- We closed out the conference Colorado-based Art of the Yard was ucts, providing top-notch customer service and never shying away from a tough job. They are very active on social media, showing off their beautiful work and assisting others in the APC Facebook group. Atlantic is proud to present our highest award to individuals who are more than deserving of recognition for their contribution to the industry. Shane and Heath received the accolade from previous APC of the Year Gerard Touhey of Water Features by Gerard and Rex McCaskill of Pond Professors, Inc., the 2016 recipient, at the closing banquet at the Cleveland Aquarium and Windows on the River. Atlantic Water Gardens would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to all who attended the Second Annual Atlantic Professional Conference. With multiple hands-on and classroom presentations covering installation, product development, sales and marketing and maintenance plans, the event was hailed as an outstanding learning experience by all.

50 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 51 recognized for going above and beyond in professionalism and artistry. Back at the hospi- tality room, we wound down with late-night discussions and good-byes. Until next year! a

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52 pondtrademag.com POND Trade Magazine 012_18 www.airmaxeco.com | 866-424-7629 | P.O. Box 38 | Romeo, Michigan 48065 Lotus Profile

LOTUS Red LOWDOWN Taking a deeper look at Nelumbo nucifera

White by Laura Bancroft, The Lotus Effect Ten Mile Creek Nursery Delicate flowers in shades of red, pink, yellow and white are displayed on single stalks en Mile Creek Nursery had long amid lush, round leaves of the deepest green, specialized in general landscape plants, making the lotus one of the most spectacular Gulf Coast natives and annuals — just plants in the aquatic environment. Their almost Tyour ordinary South Alabama nursery striv- magical ability to roll away mud and dust allows ing to survive in an uncertain economy. But them to present an ever-clean, fresh face for the on a warm afternoon in October 2009, we world to see. This quality is known as “the lotus had our first encounter with growing lotus. effect.” Their ability to self-regulate temperature Pink We all met under the big pole barn. The within the flower allows them to survive even nursery owner, Bill Bancroft, his parents, during the most stressful temperature extremes. Laura and Steve Bancroft, Dr. Ken Tilt from Keeping the bud warm during cold nights and Auburn University and two representatives cool during hot days allows them to produce from a Dutch company were hoping to intro- viable seeds. Moreover, almost all parts of the lotus are duce America to the possibility of growing edible at some point during the life cycle. Seeds water plants — specifically the sacred lotus, and tubers are nutritious, high in anti-oxidants Nelumbo nucifera, in pots, on the patio and and delicious. Petals and green seedpods are used in their yards. to make tea. Lotus have historically provided the Versicolor From that point onward, there has been no treatment and cure for many ailments, and this turning back. People all over the world have is now being confirmed by scientific research. become fascinated with this beautiful plant and the idea that they do not need a pond or Choose Wisely even an especially big space to enjoy its breath- Lotus do not have a complicated list of taking beauty and grace. requirements that are necessary to provide The lotus is a symbol of purity, wisdom luxuriant growth and beautiful flowers. They and peace and is a treasured plant steeped just need good soil, lots of direct sunlight, very in ancient history. Likenesses of lotus leaves, warm temperatures, regular fertilization and flowers and seeds have been found engraved on enough standing water to keep it from drying Yellow bronze pots excavated in China dating back to out. Lotus will not grow well inside except in CHOOSE A COLOR Flower color the 10th century B.C. (the Broken Pot of the greenhouse conditions and temperatures. They is determined by comparing the ”first day flower” to the Royal Minister of Jin Dynasty) and is often seen in will not grow inside on your windowsill in a Horticultural Color Chart. Lotus Egyptian hieroglyphics from the pyramids. climate-controlled environment. They require are generally placed into one of these groups, but colors inside each group can vary widely.

‘Pink-a-licious’ is a new hybrid by Ten Mile Creek Nursery. November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 55 five to seven hours of direct sunlight through the water. They can be every day in order to thrive. They are plastic, resin or glazed pots, as long quite easy to grow outside and will as they are impermeable to water. flourish almost everywhere in the Lotus prefer rounded pots with a United States. wide surface area, shallow depth and There are two types of Nelumbo no holes in the bottom of the pot. nucifera: the hardy lotus, which A growing lotus will coil around are cyclical and go dormant in the the bottom of the pot as it grows. If winter, and the tropical lotus, which there are any holes in the bottom of do not go fully dormant and grow the pot, your lotus will escape and most successfully in humid, tropical begin filling up your pond. and subtropical climates. Lotus come For Exquisite of Bowl Lotus WALL SPOUTS in many colors and sizes with differ- or micro lotus, the pot size can • Wall Spouts are an easy and elegant way to add the ent types of flowers, so take it a step range from teacup size to 11 inches sight and sound of water to vertical surfaces at a time when selecting the right wide and 6 to 7 inches deep. The lotus for you. smaller varieties of micro lotus are • Solid brass fixtures with complement any style wall When choosing a size, ask your- easier to grow “pot-in-pot,” placing • Feature an integrated drip edge to eliminate self, “How much room do I have? the smaller pot inside a wider and backflow and grounding lug for bonded systems How big do I want my lotus to be?” slightly deeper pot to lessen the Lotus can be found in many sizes, frequency of watering. The smaller • Great for smaller outdoor areas or a perfect from tiny Exquisite of Bowl Lotus complement to larger spillways pot can be removed for display at (also called micro lotus) between 6 any time. Pots should vary based on • Now available in four architectural designs and two and 8 inches tall, to small or dwarf plant size for bowl lotus (12 to 14 finishes to fit any style lotus (1 to 2 feet tall), to medium inches wide and 7 to 8 inches deep), lotus (2 to 4 feet tall), to large/tall small/dwarf lotus (14 to 18 inches lotus (giant plants standing more wide and 8 to 10 inches deep), than 4 feet tall). medium lotus (16 to 20 inches wide As far as flower types go, you have and 10 to 14 inches deep) and large/ another menu of choices. Flowers of tall lotus (at least 18 inches wide less than 25 petals are called single and at least 12 inches deep). or few-petalled; plants with 25 to 50 Note that the size of a lotus culti- petals are semi-double; and flowers var is a genetic trait; however, their of more than 50 petals are double final height is greatly affected by or multi-petalled. Duplicate flowers have carpels that are petaloid, with climate and cultivation practices. no seeds produced. Thousand-petal Lotus pots should be harvested lotus have a significantly higher and replanted every two to three petal count than double-flowered years to keep the pot from becom- lotus, with no receptacle. ing overcrowded, which results in smaller leaves and fewer flowers. NEW! Pot selection depends on plant size and whether you plan to place Antique Planting Tips The first day flower (top) of ‘Decorated ’ is pink.‘Pretty your pot into a pond where a darker- Copper Flower’ (bottom) shows beautiful draping and multiple colors. color pot will not be as visible Fill a pot half full of good topsoil Finish Flower Types

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Duplicate Semi-double Single Thousand Petal Double

November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 57 (sandy loam) without a lot of organic four days, fill the pot to the top. when the weather warms up and they are matter or woody particles that will float. The average green growing cycle of a growing quickly. Begin to feed after an aerial Patrick Nutt, the famous curator of the hardy lotus is approximately 140 to 150 leaf or three to five coin (floating) leaves are aquatic plants at Longwood Gardens, is days in a pot and slightly longer in earth- present, whichever happens first. Fertilize quoted as having said, “If it grows grass, it bottom ponds. When the plant is in full every three weeks using the schedule in the will grow waterlilies and lotus.” dormancy, there is no green vegetation chart shown below. Notice that the dosage Add water to 1 inch above the soil. above the water level. New tubers should starts low, builds as the plant grows and then tapers as the growing season draws to Plant tuber Coin leaves 2 to 3 weeks later an end. Proper fertilization will bring you dark green leaves and lots of flowers! Avoid fertilization after August 1. Many people prefer to use a formula â â that is higher in phosphorus to encour- æ age blooming. Waterlily World Tablets,

HARVEST Container Application Dose in AVERAGE LIFE CYCLE size grams* every 3 weeks ã IN POT 140-150 DAYS 3.5 Gal 2-3-5-5-3-2 Tuber production IN LAKE 180-190 DAYS First aerial & dormancy ç leaf week 4 to 6 5 Gal 3-5-8-8-5-3

å 10 Gal 5-8-12-12-8-5 á 15 Gal 8-12-20-20-12-8

*A gram is usually equal to about a scant teaspoon. Chart by Dr. Daike Tian, PhD, Horticulture.

Flowers & seeds for 3 months First bud week 8 to 10 Pondtabbs, Highland Rim and Landon Aquatic Fertilizer are all great prod- ucts formulated especially for blooming aquatic plants. Follow the package instruc- tions carefully.

Things to Remember Here are some great tips by Dr. Daike Tian on fertilizing lotus. Vigorous and super-large-sized lotus need more food than smaller ones or cultivars with fewer leaves. Large containers need more food, but don’t calculate directly by multiply- ing. In other words, fertilizer should be Lotus seeds are delicious, nutritious — and fun. much less than double in a 10-gallon Well water is best, but tap water is fine. be planted in the spring when the chance container compared to a 5-gallon container. Make a slight indentation in the soil of freezing temperatures has passed and The fertilization rate should increase with your hand. Place the tuber into the the nights have consistently warmed up as plants grow, and then should decrease indentation with the front-growing tip to at least 50 degrees. Planting earlier pointed toward the center of the pot. a little bit beyond the growth peak. If will simply use up the energy stored in Be careful not to break the growing tips. your plants are not homogenous in size, the tuber and could even delay or prevent Brush the soil over the top of the tuber to especially in the early growth season, the your lotus from growing well. hold it in place, leaving the growing tips application rate should be adjusted for slightly above the top of the soil. Many safety. Decrease dosing for the weaker How to Feed people also prefer to leave the cut end of ones or those with fewer leaves. The the tuber above ground. After three to Lotus are very heavy feeders, especially application dose should also decrease

‘Mankala pathum’ grows exceptionally well in a 10-inch pot. (hybridized by Dr. Nopchai Chansilpa) November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 59 TM a little bit if the water level is very Water low. Young flower buds are especially PONDTRADE prone to damage from high concen- Artisans tration levels. If the leaves have inter- Lake Aeration of the Year vein yellowing, a toxic level of fertilizer is possible. If the whole young leaf is Third annual yellow, it is overdosed seriously, so dilute the solution with water and stop fertilization for couple of weeks. Water Artisans An abundance of additional information about lotus is available in books and on the internet. There of the Year contest is no one way to plant and grow these spectacular plants. The truth 5 CATEGORIES: of the matter is that they are really very easy to grow — so just buy one n Most naturalistic and try it! a

n Best waterfall

n Best pondless About the Author n B est water feature under $15,000

n Best waterscape/ hardscape combo AERATION SYSTEMS Now with self weighted diffusers

Photos will be judged by a panel of experts, and there will be a winner and honorable mention in Use our online aeration system request form each category. Laura Bancroft is the opera- to help you select the proper system at The cost for each entry is $25, tional manager of Ten Mile Creek www.easypro.com/aeration-system-request and the money goes to Nursery in Hartford, Alabama, St. Jude’s Children Hospital. which grows more than 300 variet- As one of the country’s largest manufacturers of diffused ies of exotic Nelumbo nucifera from aeration systems, EasyPro has the products and the Open to professional installers around the world. Ten Mile Creek experience to help you with nearly any aeration project. only. Nursery has sold thousands of potted lotus and dormant tubers and has recently begun to harvest thousands 800-448-3873 EASYPRO.COM of pounds of lotus biomass every year for biochemical research and Submissions must be from development companies who use November 1, 2017 – it in health and beauty products. November 1, 2018. Lotus has revolutionized the nursery so much that it is now the only thing kelly billing Go to www.pondtrademag.com/ they grow. A graduate of Auburn design |supply |consulting 2018-water-artisans-of-the-year/ University (B.S.) and the University 443.504.2345 for official rules and entry form. of Alabama (M.A., SecEd, Biology), she is a retired teacher, wife, mother [email protected] and happy grandmother to seven www.waterbecomesagarden.com Contest deadline is beautiful little Bancrofts! November 30, 2018. www.tenmilecreeknursery.com changing the way Water Becomes a Garden

November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 61

Water artisans2018.indd 2 8/14/18 12:29 PM To see full press releases and additional news items, visit Trade News www.pondtrademag.com/category/trade-news Trade News

EasyPro Pond Products Acquires Tierra Innovations EasyPro Pond Products is pleased to announce the acquisition of Tierra Innovations and the exclusive manufacturing rights for Black Waterfall Foam developed by Gary Wallace. For many years, Tierra Innovations has manufactured EasyPro Black OASE Living Water Acquires Atlantic Water Gardens Waterfall Foam as well as Rockin Foam to customers throughout OASE Living Water continues its strategy for growth and OASE Introduces Easy Garden Control (EGC) North America. is pleased to announce the acquisition of U.S.-based Atlantic Matala's Biosteps10 to the North American Market at the GIE Show Tierra Innovations' proprietary Water Gardens, a leading supplier of innovative outdoor water After a successful year in Europe, the long-awaited Easy Garden Control (EGC) formula is the only foam product feature products and systems to the North American market. Matala Expandable gravity filter maximizes filter media system will bring about a smart revolution in North America’s water gardening on the market that utilizes a carbon Headquartered in Germany, OASE is a global market leader in performance. The rugged Biosteps10 contains an amazing 200 industry. This new line of products will make its official debut at the Green Industry black formulation, which provides water gardening products, designed for the creation of tranquil, square feet of surface area for beneficial bacteria growth. Expo (GIE) Show in Louisville, Kentucky, on October 17-19, 2018. a non-fading color benefit ideal inviting outdoor oases. Combined with a cross-flow design that traps and processes “We are very excited to bring the EGC system to the North American market,” said for water feature construction. “We have been collaborating with European landscapers for more debris at high flow rates, you get unparalleled mechanical Frayne McAtee, Director of Sales for the North American Division of OASE. “This It also bonds to most surfaces years and see an opportunity to build on this experience with and biological filtration for superior water quality. is another leap forward in technology and products that makes it possible to monitor with minimal expansion, dries professional contractors in the North American market,” said Combine multiple units for large or heavily stocked koi ponds, and control an outdoor oasis from anywhere in the world. This is just the beginning in 30 minutes and comes with a Thorsten Muck, CEO of OASE. “We are excited about this or use Biosteps10 with optional UV Clarifier for improved water of many new and exciting products that we will be bringing to the market over the patented trigger system allowing expansion as it gives us the opportunity to work with the highly clarity. It features a universal barbed inlet (1, 1 1/4, 1 1/2 inch next several years. The EGC system is another step for us to fulfill our company goal the product to be dispensed from respected and talented team at Atlantic. Their product range sizes) with 1 1/2-inch outlet. It measures 23 3/16 by 15 inches of adding quality to the lives of our customers.” any angle. These are just some and expertise will enhance our ability to serve an even broader and is 20 3/16 inches high. The heart of the OASE EGC product is the new Inscenio EGC Controller, which of the many exclusive benefits of range of customers worldwide.” For ponds up to 2,700 gallons, it is a step-wise transition enables the control of up to 10 devices (EGC pumps, filters, lights). The revolutionary Tierra Innovations foam. Atlantic Water Gardens has a 30-year history of supplying from mechanical filtration to high-efficiency biofiltration. Other garden system facilitates convenient control and operation of the connected products EasyPro is excited to bring professional-grade water feature products to landscape features include: from anywhere in the world using the OASE Cloud service. this innovative product into its contractors through distribution channels in the United States, • State-of-the-art progressive filtration; In addition to centrally controlling EGC products, the system provides feedback family of pond and water feature Canada and Mexico. As part of the OASE Group, Atlantic will • A sufficient volume of Matala filter media with progressive concerning operation status, power consumption and overall performance diagnostics. products. gain access to the worldwide landscape construction market. densities; This data can then be analyzed, formatted and stored on the OASE Cloud. If any www.easypro.com Atlantic is the perfect fit to OASE’s product portfolio and will • A filter design that enhances growth of different ecological technical or performance problems occur, the homeowner will receive a notification enhance the range of products OASE sold worldwide. communities of bacteria and planktonic organisms that will so they can resolve the issue immediately. “Joining forces with OASE will provide excellent channels colonize different sections of the filter; An investment in the OASE Easy Garden Control (EGC) system is an investment to deliver our state-of-the-art water features to landscapers • A cross-flow pattern that traps more dirt at high-flow rates in the future, available in North America in early 2019. beyond North America. What’s more, OASE’s wide range of without plugging; For the full release, visit www.oase-livingwater.com. premium water gardening equipment is highly complementary • A flow rate of up to 1,060 gph maximum per unit; to Atlantic’s systems and projects,” said Jeff Weemhoff, • Built-in overflow safety; President of Atlantic Water Gardens. “We look forward • Easy maintenance; to providing OASE’s cutting edge, German-engineered • A sloped bottom with extra sink at outlet for easy draining Kasco Expands Sales Team technology to our clientele. Together, we will create the most of waste; and innovative and comprehensive water gardening business in • A modular design that allows for future expansion. Kasco is pleased to announce the addition on membrane liners in the United States. Paul has consulted and North America.” Weemhoff added, “Whether the beginning of Paul Amos to our sales team. In his sales made sales to environmental engineers, landfill owners, industry hobbyist or the professional landscaper, by reaching out to a For more info, visit www.matalausa.com. position, Paul will work to create opportunities regulators, mining companies, counties, municipalities and local, more diverse base of water garden enthusiasts, our goal is to and grow existing relationships. state and federal fish and wildlife agencies. transform and inspire the North American water gardening Paul is no stranger to Kasco, as he’s worked With a thorough grasp of both small and large pond applications industry.” as an independent manufacturer’s representative and the use of bacteria and circulation to augment the ecosystem, Learn more in the press section at www.oase-livingwater. for us for more than 10 years. His innate ability to Paul will help Kasco continue to thrive. com or at blog.atlanticwatergardens.com. identify ways to help our customers grow by sharing Paul’s product knowledge as well familiarity with the industries his own experiences will be of great value to the team. we serve will make the transition to the team virtually seamless. Paul Paul has a wealth of knowledge and experience across many will be working remotely from his home office outside of Houston, aquatic industries. He’s worked closely with pond liner sales and Texas, and can be reached at [email protected], 715/262- installations for many years and is considered a leading authority 2338 (office) or 713/825-1432 (cell).

62 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 POND Trade Magazine 63 Advertisers’ Index Trade News MARKETPLACE Airmax Ecosystems...... 53 AMP by Volt Lighting...... 18 Anjon Water Garden Products...... 25 Aqua Meds...... 24 Aquacide...... 64 Aquatic Nutrition, Inc...... 67 Atlantic Water Gardens...... 56 Family owned & operated, EasyPro Pond Products ...... 34,35 Atlantic Water Gardens Pond De-Icer 3 generations of award winning Even while hibernating, pond fish need oxygen, and the carbon excellence in aquaculture EasyPro Pond Products...... 61 dioxide they exhale needs to dissipate from the water. Atlantic (319) 846.2077 Environmental Alternatives...... 12 Water Gardens is proud to introduce a brand new Pond De-Icer w w w . k l o u b e c k o i . c o m capable of keeping a hole open for gas exchange during the harshest GC Tek...... 46 winters. The Atlantic Pond De-Icer is constructed of high-strength, Kloubec Koi Farm...... 32,65 high-temperature PPS polymer for incredible durability under the most adverse conditions. Economical to operate and fully Kodoma Koi Farm...... 64 automatic, its efficient heating element draws only 300 watts, Premium Pond Leaf Nets Koi Smart Pond Supply...... 33 and only when an internal thermostat detects water temperature wholesale dropping below freezing. As the water warms, the unit shuts itself P.O. Box 712 KW Solutions...... 65 off. An LED shines blue in standby mode when the De-Icer is Orchard Park, NY 14127 plugged in and water is above freezing; it shines green when the Laguna Water Gardening...... 2 716 662-2785 ph/fax temperature drops below freezing to show it is in operation. Little Giant...... 68 [email protected] Atlantic Water Gardens www.pondnets.com Mainland Mart Corp...... 33 330/274-8317 Matala...... 19 www.atlanticwatergardens.com KW Solutions, Inc. Microbe-Lift...... 20 Netherland Bulb...... 15 OASE Living Water...... 42 www.kodamakoifarm.com Park Pool and Pond Products...... 65 Polytank, Inc...... 31 Pondliner.com...... 3 Pond Pro 2000...... 52 Pondtent...... 7

Your Pond Farm 2018 Trade Show Recap Contact us for a price list ShinMaywa ...... 44 Your Pond Farm would like to thank all the customers and 1-808-354-7031 [email protected] Sterling Lighting ...... 45 vendors who attended the annual Pond and Garden Trade Show Universal Pond Supply...... 47 on Aug. 28 – 29. The fun, educational show enabled customers to see new products, visit with vendors and speak with pond Water Artisan of the Year ...... 60 professionals. Water Becomes a Garden...... 61 The seminars were very well attended, and there were many Don’t miss out on this new products displayed from manufacturers like Iku Koi Kichi, Market Place advertising opportunity. Aquascape and Evolution Aquatics. The customers raved about the See our website: selection of koi on display and were especially impressed by the http://www.pondtrademag.com/advertise-with-us/ Extend your national visibility - skin and color quality. Your Pond Farm was also very excited to show their customers a advertise in TM sneak peek of their revamped website that will be live soon. TM For all your water gardening needs, call Your Pond Farm at 877/412-3276 or email [email protected]. PONDTRADE Call Lora Lee Gelles 708/873-1921 64 POND Trade Magazine pondtrademag.com November/December 2018 65 or [email protected] FINAL THOUGHT...

Time to Reflect

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