For better or for worse, the pond industry operates with minimal governing codes and laws. But according to Kent Wallace, the health of the industry would be well-served by a few common guidelines! Cater your next pond installation to Kent’s numbers and watch your success rate soar.
While they may not wine and dine like we do, the plants in your pond reproduce with frequency that would make Hugh Hefner blush! Nature’s bountiful procreation strategy provides big opportunities for growers — if they know how to harness it. Do you know the differences between division, viviparous parenthood and tissue culture? If not, be sure to read Paula Biles’ story on the romance that is plant propagation.
MaryEllen Malinowski’s mission began with a single koi rescued from a garbage bin. 1,200 koi later, The Koi Whisperer’s mission is still the same: to give voices to these colorful creatures, enabling them to live healthy and happy lives. In the process, she has inspired countless people of all ages to join her cause around the world.
In our last issue, Jason Lenox wrote about a long drive, a rural farmhouse and a customer with enormous ideas. Now, in the second half of a two-part series, the owner of Ponds Inc. describes how he turned a large-scale plan into a pond installation that surpassed even his own expectations!
Facebook is one of the most powerful tools in the history of marketing … and it’s evolving. With the advent of Facebook hashtags (like #PondTrade), pond businesses now have a greater opportunity to reach and communicate with customers than ever before. Are you leveraging hashtags to their fullest potential? If not, turn to pg. 50 and discover how to grow your organization in ways your business professor never imagined.
For many koi lovers, koi appreciation is about admiring the juxtaposition of colors. When it comes to Hikari Muji, however, all of the beauty is conveyed in just one hue. Check out Taro Kodama’s story to learn about the unique characteristics of this monochrome breed … and how to make simple beauty a part of your pond or koi business.
Are you thinking about bringing your brick and mortar pond business online? If so, turn to pg. 32, where John Olson dispels some of the common myths and misconceptions about Internet marketing and e-commerce in terms any technophobe will understand. While the road ahead may be time-consuming and expensive, following these tips can help make all the effort worthwhile.
There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your well-maintained pond littered with bird poop. And thanks to the Common Grackle, many Midwestern pond owners experience this nightmare scenario on repeat! If you’re fed up with disgusting “presents” from local blackbirds, check out Jamie Beyer’s explanation (and advice).
Even the most experienced koi keeper or water gardener can be intimidated by natural ponds and lakes. But don’t let their size fool you: they are an oft-untapped profit center with an easier learning curve than you might think. Follow Rick Weidman’s advice to turn the natural water bodies in your area into new growth for your business!
