When should you start feeding your koi fish?

One of the most common questions we get this time of year is when should I start feeding my koi. Here is what we recommend at Art of the Yard. The first thing you will need is a good thermometer to monitor the water temperature. We don’t recommend any feeding when the water temperature is below 50°F. In the spring, when temperatures hit 50°F-55°F you can start feeding a wheatgerm food 2-3 times per week. Then, when temps reach 55°F-60°F you can increase the wheatgerm food to 3-4 feedings per week. Then, when temperatures are between 60°F-65°F you can do a mix of wheatgerm and growth or color-enhancing food once a day. From 65°F-70°F you should be feeding the koi the same mix 1-2 times per day. From 70°F-80°F is, when the koi are most active, I recommend feeding a color-enhancing and growth food mix 2-3 times per day. When water temperatures reach above 80°F oxygen levels will drop in the pond, increase your aeration this time of year, and cut feedings back to once a day.