Pond Nets

Pond nets are intended to keep debris, such as dead leaves and other rubbish from dropping into the pond. Debris can be unsightly, and as it decomposes, different compounds stimulate the growth of algae and can become hazards to the fish. Moreover, large build-up of these dead leaves is often linked to ponds that experience major “winter kill”. Pond nets are used ideally during the fall, and are designed to spread over the pond.

Generally constructed of plastic materials, or nylon or solid plastic for seine nets, pond nets come in a variety of net designs. They’re typically made of 3/8-inch mesh, designed with “UV Inhibitors” for lengthened lifespan. Since they do not usually come with features for anchoring, one has to make an anchor or use bricks or rocks to hold them securely in place. On the other hand, a few pond nets do come with anchors, but the touch of rocks holding it down provides a more natural look.

Buying Pond Netting

All pond netting differs, particularly its mesh size. The mesh size varies widely from one manufacturer to the other, and at times even with similar product lines. Buying moderately coarse pond net will catch bigger leaves fresh off trees, however, dried and shrinking leaves sift through, along with smaller debris. Additionally, several coarser nets function as “gill nets”, killing and trapping unfortunate fish that get tangled when the net droops into pond water.

High-quality pond nets have mesh that’s not bigger than ½” to 3/8”, and is even better compared to other mesh size. Pond nets that have finer mesh can catch both leaves and some bigger seeds such as acorns. The coarser ones are more suitable for those who want to keep the fish from jumping out of the water; although, the netting still needs to be hanging well above pond water.

Netting A Pond

The easiest method of pond netting is simply laying the net across a pond’s surface, and staking its perimeter every couple of feet with clothespins, wire, tent stakes, or any other possible material to keep it securely in place.

If the net sags into the pond water, then lay a few pieces of low-priced PVC pipe across its longer reaches to add support. A good idea is to build a frame using PVC pipe, fasten the net to it using cable ties, and place the frame or frames across the pond to get a clean look, as well as make its maintenance easier.

Keep in mind that the pond netting must preferably be supported above the level of pond water, so it keeps out of the water. In this way, the risk for fish getting tangled up is lessened, and the surface of the pond is debris-free.

Maintaining Pond Nets

Every so often, the leaves on the pond net must be removed. If they’re not removed on time, they’ll start to crumble and get into the pond water and make all effort pointless. Moreover, the build-up of wet leaves will add weight to the net and start a “net tear” or stretch the net that’ll make it touch the water.

Removing leaf from nets is easier if PVC frames have been made, as its as simple as flipping them over onto the ground where they can be raked away. Those using stake methods must remove the net’s stakes along one side of its net, fold it in half to keep all the leaves in, and either flip them out or un-stake the other side and bring them a couple of feet away to be dumped.

Pond nets not only keep ponds looking good, but also protects things that may threaten inhabitants of the pond. They’re also easy to install and easy to maintain.