Winter Pond Maintenance - Get Ready for Winter!

by John Howell

Believe it or not, winter is actually approaching. I remember last Oct 31, sweating while trick-or-treating with my sons. I’m not sure when or how long it will be cold this year, but I do know there are a few things we need to do to prepare our ponds for winter and have a more successful spring.

• Do a light cleaning of the pond (don’t scrub!). Specifically remove any leaves and debris that could foul the water in the winter. A sludge digester is also a good idea in the fall to help break down the solid matter on the bottom of the pond.
• Check your pump and be sure the sponge filter is free of debris. Raise the pump off the bottom of the pond to circulate upper water, allowing the bottom water to stay warmer for the fish. Switch koi and goldfish to Autumn/Fall food. These foods usually contain wheat germ and have lower protein. When water temps go below 50 degrees, stop feeding all together. Don’t worry, they won’t starve.
• Plecostomus (algae eaters) – These fish do not like water temps below 65 degrees. It is best to remove them from the pond for the winter.
• Stop feeding your lilies by the end of September to allow the plants to tuber and harden off for the winter. Leaf production should be dropping as the plant prepares itself for cooler weather. Keep the dead leaves pruned and out of the pond. Any pots that are raised can be lowered to the bottom for winter.