We are still in the planning stages, but my husband is on board. We have koi, inside. They need more water, and I want more koi. However, SE Alaska has bear, porcupine, blue herons, bald eagles, kingfishers, etc. We are fairly close to the ocean so mink and martin could also be a problem.
I've also wanted a good-sized greenhouse. So here is the plan.
12 x 30 greenhouse with a pond, 8 x 5 then 5 feet deep. Straight sides for space. The pond would actually be partially under grade which would help insulate. Of course, this means the greenhouse would be kept warmer than the outside for several months of the year, and while this is a consideration, it isn't the end of the world.
Has anyone else tried something like this? I'm worried about condensation and mildew from the excess humidity but I'm also excited to be able to have at least some plants year around since our garden season is so short.
New greenhouse with a pond inside... bad idea?
I've known people to have small ponds for aquatic plants in their greenhosues, but not for koi ponds. No reason why you can't do it. I would suggest you give the pond as much space as you can spare because 8x5 (even though it'll be 5' deep) is not a lot of swimming space for a large koi. Your concerns sound like basic greenhouse concerns and might be better answered on the greenhouse forum. A certain amount of condensation is something you'll probably have to accept but air circulation should help to keep down the growth of fungus and mildew as a result of it. Those greenhouse folks I'm sure will have tons of great advice for you, probably even pitfalls to consider where the pond is concerned.
Good luck! I hope it turns out great!
Yes i use this as a grow out system. The temp of the greenhouse will not effect the koi as long as the water temp is not below 45 or above 80 in temp. A greenhpuse is a good idea for alaska. By the way.. How do you get koi up there?
Regards,
Rick
We have a pond in our GH just for that reason,We have mild winters here,but still miss the Gardens in winter ,After we put our GH together we decided it was way to large for over wintering,So we turned ours into a Tropical garden Complete with Koi pond.
We have learned lots of hard lessons alog the way,if I can be of any help Please ask.
Pheadra
oops Wrong Photo.
What a wonderful spot georgiagarden3! I just love the gater in the pond. Your greenhouse looks like a wonderful refuge. I really love all of the creative ideas I see here on DG.
oh my, gg3, that's simply spectacular!
(where is Arlington, anyway?)
GeorgiaJo
tetleytuna,Thank You for your wonderful comments.
GeorgiaJo, We're in the bottom corner(southwest) 45 minutes from Tallahassee,45 minutes from Dothan
Sorry I haven't been here! I can get koi through the pet shop. They rarely carry them because most people want the goldfish and do not understand what is involved. As long as the store knows the fish are for me they will order them special.
I'll try to get online when I get off work. It's almost 6PM here.