Feed your koi to help them develop and to become your friends. Koi are pets and soon acknowledge you as you approach the pond to feed. Soon they will follow you wherever you walk, thinking they might get something. Healthy, friendly koi in warm water will always try to make you think they are so hungry!

A few general guidlines need to be followed. First, start feeding in the Spring as the water begins to warm to about 60 degrees. In cooler weather, as the water cools, the fish metabolism slows. This means the fish require less to no food and can not properly digest it. Do not feed your fish when water is 50 degrees or less. With water temperatures between 50-60 degrees you can feed your fish a low protein type food such as Cheerios cereal or vegetables and fruit, if they are hungry. Secondly, do not overfeed your fish. Make sure that when you feed something, they eat it.

When you start feeding your fish, always feed at the same location. They will start recognizing that food is given there. Throw a little food out and watch their reaction. If they are in a feeding frenzy as they finish that amount, feed a little more. Feed for only a few minutes (4-5). Do not overfeed. Make sure the fish are eating what you introduce to the pond water. As the water warms you can feed more frequently, 2-3 times per day.

Koi will feed on the healthy algae on the sides and bottom of the pond. We supplement their diet with fish food, but they can survive on an established ponds algae if not overcrowded.