When should a pond be limed?

Should a pond be limed? A pond is often treated with limestone amendments such as nautex (chalk) rather than lime. Improperly dosed lime can kill your entire ecosystem.

By adding substances such as nautex, based on limestone and rich in calcium, you will be able to fight against certain substances in the pond and improve the water quality.

Total alkalinity of a natural pond

For a to be beneficial to the development of your fish, the water must have a total alkalinity greater than 25 mg/l CaCO ₃ . For optimal fish production, the total alkalinity should vary between 75 and 175 mg/l CaCO ₃ (see table below). The more the total alkalinity of the water is optimal, the more your fish are protected against external pollutants (copper sulphate, etc.)

It indicates to what extent the pH of the water can vary and whether the availability of carbon dioxide is sufficient.

When should a pond be limed?

It is not always necessary to lime a pond. Improperly dosed liming can be harmful to your fish. If you use a nautex type product, do not overdose more than 100G/M². There are several parameters to consider. With too low a pH, lime treatment may be warranted. In a pond with lots of mud and organic material, liming can improve soil conditions.

How to lime a pond without emptying it?

It is advisable to dilute the lime with water. If the pond is small, you can sprinkle with lime from the banks, otherwise you will have to use a boat. Be careful, plan suitable equipment and gloves because this type of treatment can be abrasive. You should not use more than 100G/M² for lime. Liming is done in winter or early spring with slaked lime