How To Winterize Your Pond
Maintaining Your Pond in the Winter Season
The winter season may be upon you, but that doesn’t mean that winterizing your pond needs to be a headache. These Australian winters can be long and harsh, but these helpful steps will let you keep ahead of the weather and prepare your pond for the winter hiatus. Don’t worry, in no time, it’ll be spring again, and your pond will be ready to go for a new season.
Remove Debris
Take a look around your pond environment. If you see any excessive dead or dying organic detritus, it is very important that it is removed from your pond. Ideally, you’ll have placed a pond net over your pond or water feature before the leaves started to fall, since that is the easiest way to avoid excess debris. If you did not place a pond net, not to worry; it will just take a little extra work to make sure the area is clean, and purchasing a net for next season might be something to consider. The simplest way to remove debris is with a long-handled net which you can use to scoop debris from the bottom of the pond and away from the water.
Trim Dead Foliage
If you notice any of the foliage or greenery around your pond or water feature that has bit the dust, it will be in your best interest to remove it. Should these dead plants be left behind, they could potentially decompose in your pond, which produces an unwanted smell. It is also useful to take note of plants that are starting to look unhealthy and work to preemptively remove them from your pond ecosystem.
Leaving a Pond Operational
Should you decide to leave your pond operational, such as with a water feature, keep in mind the maintenance that goes with that decision. You will be able to enjoy beautiful ice formations, but you’ll need to periodically top-off the water in your pond due to evaporation. Ice formations, while beautiful, can also cause damage to some pond features, so use this option with caution.
Shutting Down a Pond
Before you shut down your pond, which is recommended in these colder climates, there are a few things you will want to do. Firstly, remove the pump from you pond and store it in a place that will be unaffected from cold weather. Doing so will help to prolong the lifespan of your pump. Secondly, drain any water from the plumbing of your water features. Water that freezes in pipes can expand and explode, meaning costly repairs for you in the spring. Thirdly, remove and clean water filters, which should also be stored in a temperate setting. We also recommend oxygenating your pond with a recirculating pump. This will help your fish stay healthy, and also keeps your pond from completely freezing over and trapping unwanted gases.
Preparing Fish for Cold Weather
Before it gets too cold, continue feeding your fish a healthy, well-balanced diet. Fish begin to hibernate when the water temperatures drop to a certain level, at which point, you can decrease the amount of food you feed your fish. If the water temperature falls to below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, you may not even need to feed your fish at all. Excess food when you fish are hibernation can be detrimental to their overall health.
Visit Melbourne Tropical Fish for All of Your Pond Needs
If you have any questions about winterizing your pond, or if you would like advice on what products to use to most effectively care for you fish, please visit us! Our friendly aquarium and pond experts can answer any questions you may have about the winterization process.
Contact Us
Melbourne Tropical Fish
Factory 2/41-43 Sinclair Rd
Dandenong VIC 3175
(03) 9792 5513