Tips on Protecting Your Pond and Fish During Autumn and Winter Sponsored by Easypro Pond Products
As the days get shorter and the air gets chilly, it’s a sign that winter is coming. If you have a pond, it’s time to think about getting it ready for the cold season. A well-prepped pond can handle winter easily, but one that’s ignored might run into problems. |
Tidying Up for Winter
Start by giving your pond a good cleaning. Get rid of any leaves and leftover stuff from the summer. This helps keep the water clean and full of oxygen. You can also cover your pond with a net to stop more stuff from falling in. If leaves do get into your pond you can use a handled skimmer net to remove them.
Keeping the Right Temperature
As it gets colder, keep an eye on the water temperature in your pond. Try to keep it between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If it gets too cold, your fish might get stressed or even die. You can do this by using a pond thermometer.
Changing the Fish Menu
When the weather changes, switch up your fish’s food. Use food with wheat germ for koi and goldfish because it’s easier for them to digest when it’s colder. Once it consistently gets into the 30s, you can stop feeding them altogether.
Taking Care of Your Plants
Now is the time to trim away any dead or dying parts from your water plants using pruning tools. Bring any plants that can’t handle the cold inside before it freezes.
Aerating and Un-Freezing for Survival
When winter comes, think about getting an aerator or de-icer. This will keep at least part of your pond from turning into ice, which is important for your fish to survive. When it gets really cold, turn off your pond gear, like the pump and filter, before everything freezes. Store them indoors where they won’t get damaged by the weather. This is also a good time to clean and fix your gear for spring!
By following these simple steps, you can make sure your pond and its inhabitants have a happy and healthy winter. When spring rolls around, you’ll be rewarded with a lively pond ready to come back to life.