If you have a garden pond, or if you are planning to create one, annual maintenance is essential. Winter is the season when water plants and pond fish are most vulnerable. As the first cold nights of autumn arrive, preparing the pond for winter becomes a priority. Before the first frost, make sure the pond, its plants, and its inhabitants are ready for cold weather.
Winter fish in the pond
When preparing the pond for winter, a few basic principles matter most. Fish should enter the cold season healthy, with enough reserves, but feeding should be reduced and then stopped once cold weather sets in. Fish that cannot overwinter outdoors should be moved by November at the latest. If they remain in the pond, the water must be deep enough to avoid freezing solid; a deep area of about 100 cm can help provide an unfrozen zone at the bottom in many climates. It is also important to keep oxygen available. Remove accumulated twigs, dead plant material, and fallen leaves before they rot in the water. Leave hardy submerged oxygenating plants in place, because they can help support the pond through winter. Resume feeding only when the water warms again in spring.
Winter pond – store all the equipment of the pond
During the winter, the pond filtration system and pump can be vulnerable to freezing. Depending on your setup, remove and store the pond pump or protect it from frost according to the manufacturer's instructions. Thermal pond covers, a floating de-icer, or gentle water movement can help keep part of the surface open. In any case, keep a small area free of ice for gas exchange, or cover the opening with breathable material. Do not smash the ice, as the shock can harm fish.
Preparation of pond plants for winter
Native aquatic plants are generally more robust, and some evergreen varieties can overwinter in the pond. Aquatic plants have needs similar to fish, although they are often less sensitive. Rhizomes of hardy plants can survive at the bottom of the pond. Cut back water lilies and remove dead foliage before it decomposes in the water. Tender tropical species should be brought indoors or stored in a frost-free place so they can survive until spring.
Prepare pond plants for winter
Conditions that allow fish to overwinter in the pond
Pond plants in winter
The garden pond in winter
Ideas for the garden pond
Aquatic plants in winter
Overwintering the pond
Overwinter fish in the garden pond correctly
Prepare the garden for winter
Prepare a mini pond for winter
Winter fish in the garden pond
Anna Lohan
Ryan Scorfield
miranda_shida
