As winter approaches and temperatures start to drop, koi fish naturally begin to prepare for the colder months. If you’re a koi owner, you may wonder what happens to your colorful fish as ice forms over the pond and the water grows chilly. The good news is that koi are resilient creatures, adapted to survive the winter with some simple
As the cool October air sweeps through Michigan, nature begins to put on one of its most stunning displays—fall foliage. The leaves turn into a kaleidoscope of fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows, transforming landscapes into works of art. If you’re looking to bring the beauty of Michigan’s fall colors to your own backyard, choosing the right trees and
Adding a water feature to your yard can instantly elevate its ambiance, creating a soothing oasis where you can relax and unwind. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the perfect one? Whether you’re drawn to the tranquility of a pond, the soothing sound of a pondless waterfall, or the elegance of a fountainscape, finding the
As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, your garden can transform into a serene and inviting retreat with the right lighting. Low voltage landscape lighting is a perfect way to extend the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space well into the evening. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends, enjoying a quiet night under the stars,
In recent years, the outdoor living trend has surged, with homeowners increasingly seeking to transform their outdoor spaces into functional and inviting extensions of their homes. One key element, the foundation of these outdoor sanctuaries, is the patio, where families gather for meals, friends congregate for conversations, and individuals find solace in the great outdoors. While concrete patios have long
Retaining walls have been used for centuries to hold back soil and prevent erosion. From ancient civilizations to modern construction projects, these walls have played a crucial role in shaping the landscape and ensuring the stability of structures. While traditional retaining walls were typically made of stone or concrete, engineered walls have become increasingly popular due to their durability, versatility,
We are thrilled to announce that our swim pond project, designed and installed in the summer of 2023, has been showcased in the prestigious April 20, 2024 edition of Pond Trader Magazine. Our company was prominently featured in the Contractors Corner section, recognizing our expertise and innovation in the industry. Furthermore, we are proud to share that our project was
Landscaping is not just about plants and flowers; it’s about creating a harmonious outdoor space that reflects your personality and lifestyle. One of the most enduring and captivating elements in landscape design is natural stone. From its rugged beauty to its versatility, real stone adds a timeless appeal to any outdoor environment. In this guide, we’ll explore five creative ideas
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery of this West Michigan landscape lies a hidden gem – a recreational swim pond that is as enchanting as it is rejuvenating. This oasis of tranquility offers a sanctuary where one can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse oneself in the healing power of nature. As you approach
Picture yourself lounging on plush outdoor furniture under the starlit sky, the crackle of a fire pit warming your soul as you’re enjoying an evening with friends. Envision the aroma of sizzling delights wafting from your outdoor kitchen, where your culinary skills can grow amidst the backdrop of nature. See yourself relaxing near the gentle trickle of a fountain, serenity
A backyard putting green is the dream landscaping upgrade for many golf enthusiasts, and for good reason! An artificial turf putting green is not only a fantastic way to help improve your short game but is also a catalyst to spending more time outdoors with your family and friends. Plus, there’s no need to drive all the way to the
Imagine savoring the aroma of grilled delicacies, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature, as you entertain family and friends. Welcome to the world of outdoor kitchens, where the joy of cooking meets the beauty of the great outdoors. There are numerous benefits of having an outdoor kitchen at your home that will transform your culinary experience and enhance your
Watching wild birds in your yard is an enjoyable activity any time of year, but this is especially true in winter when not much else is happening in your garden. Although some favorites, such as hummingbirds, migrate to warmer places in winter, many other species stick it out through the cold. There’s a few things you can do to attract
It’s important to know how to winterize your pond and prepare your fish to survive through the winter. Over the course of a year, your pond will accumulate debris such as leaves, twigs, grass clippings, and fish waste. Left unchecked, decaying debris can release toxic gas and reduce dissolved oxygen levels within the pond. Removing debris and swapping filtration systems
Backyard koi ponds are intended to mimic nature, however they require mechanical and biological means to maintain a healthy ecosystem and clear water. A properly designed pond often includes a biological filter, which combines both mechanical and biological treatment, to maintain the health of a pond. Without a biological filter, a pond can quickly become overrun by algae and sediment.
During the warm summer months algae can quickly become a problem for many ponds. Luckily there is an easy way to prevent algae growth without the use of any harsh chemicals. Aquascape Ion-Gen System The IonGen System is an electronic algae controller for ponds, waterfalls, and other decorative water features.This electronic device reduces yearly pond maintenance, allowing you to spend
Aquatic plants help blend a pond into the surrounding environment as foliage grows over rocks and gravel. As the plants grow they also provide shade which protects fish from predators and slows algae production. Below is a brief description of five plants that we typically use in our installations to help with water clarity and add great color throughout the
For homeowners considering installing a koi pond, here are answers to some commonly asked questions: Do Ponds Require Lots Of Maintenance? In reality, a properly installed ecosystem pond is less work than the area of grass it replaces. A balance of five key factors creates the basis for a truly low maintenance pond – filtration, circulation, plants, fish, and rocks
Ducks are fun to watch and may seem like a novelty to have as a visitor to your pond. Although one or two visits from a duck should not be an issue for your pond, you should stay on the lookout for signs that they are making themselves at home. Ducks can cause issues for your pond that neither you
The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and spring has finally sprung! There are many different ways to add some beautiful colors to your landscape in the early season. Trees & Shrubs Nothing says spring quite like cherry blossom trees. These trees produce a sweet smell along with their amazing pink blossoms. There are many varieties of
Koi are not the only type of fish you can keep in your pond. There are other pond fish out there that can bring beauty and benefits to your water garden. Some are pretty, and others, not so much. Nevertheless they all bring their unique characteristics to a water feature and will lend a little originality beyond the expected koi.
Warmer weather is on the horizon and it’s time to start thinking about your pond again. These maintenance tasks should be done while cleaning your pond and can help prevent future problems from arising throughout the summer months. Some pond owners enjoy performing their own maintenance, but you can always hire us to take care of it for you. 1.
Most pond owners already know that good water quality and a healthy pond habitat go hand in hand. However, knowing how to get or to keep high water quality can be challenging to many pond owners. A bit of basic knowledge will help you keep your pond looking beautiful and performing optimally throughout the season. In addition to plants, fish,
Koi fish are amazingly hardy animals and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. In their native waters, koi are able to withstand very warm and almost-freezing temperatures. When kept in backyard ponds, there are a few points you will need to consider to keep your koi happy and healthy in below freezing temperatures. If your fish reside in an
