Question
QUESTION: Dear sirs,

I am in climate zone 7 in Walnut Cove, NC. I guess my only plans right now for the barley ball is to use for whatever value it has. From what I understand it will add some useful tannin to the pond which might help prepare the pond water for bladderworts. My pond will be on the small side (about 10-20 gal). So it will hold about as much water as a medium large aquarium. Would an air pump of some kind help out with oxygenation?

Sincerely,

Daniel

ANSWER: Yes, given the size of your pond, an air pump with an air stone will keep your pond proper oxygenated.  You can find them at your local pet store.  Make sure the get one that is rated for the size of your pond.  The only issue, as with any pond equipment, is making sure to turn it off during freezing weather and keeping the air pump dry.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear sirs,

How do I mix the peat up properly with the water for my pond to get the right acidity and ph? I know that barley ball definitely won't be sufficient. Would any companion plants help with my bladderworts?

Thank you,

Daniel

Answer
You simply need to determine how much of a layer you want on the bottom.  That will help you decide how much peat moss to use.  Soak the peat moss in a buck of water for several hours.  It'll float initially, but as each particle becomes saturated, it'll sink.  After several hours, skim off whatever is left floating.  With you saturated peat, place it in your pond.  Give it about an hour for it to settle completely to the bottom.  When you add your air stone, keep it above the level of the peat moss.  

As for companion plants, I don't know of any.  I pretty much grow only carnivorous plants.  I'm not familiar with other types of plants, such as their growth habits and needs.  You can search the internet for appropriate plants that will grow in those particular conditions.