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As cooler weather sets in and pond temperatures are getting
colder, our pond plants and fish need to be gotten ready for winter. By
following these steps after the first fall frost, you will have a healthier pond
in the spring:
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Remove and keep all dead plant material out of the water
to prevent anaerobic decay and subsequent fouling of the water.
Vacuum, or clean out the bottom of your pond by November 1st to give fish a
clean place to reside over the winter months. Cut all plants back.
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Clean filters. If filters are to be bypasses in the
winter (most are), drain filters and piping to prevent damage caused by
freezing.
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Change approximately 10-20% of the water after the
first real hard freeze, but before November 1st.
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Check fish and treat them for ailments. Fish with
problems will probably not make it through the winter and can affect the
other fish.
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In the fall, consider feeding the fish easily digested
foods such as puffed wheat and rice, wheat bread, frozen peas, and greens.
Stop feeding the fish when morning pond temperatures are less than 50
degrees.
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Keep an opening in the ice at all times to exchange gases
by circulating water or by using an air stone. If
circulating water is to be used, cut water flow back to reduce the currents
fish move through to conserve their energy. Locate the pump on the
opposite side of the lowest point in the pond and at mid-depth of the water.
A small volume of water is usually sufficient to keep an opening in the ice
for almost all of our coldest weather. If an air stone is to be used,
locate it, too, away from the deep end of the pond.
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Keep snow off the ice to allow light and oxygen to the
pond. Keep pets, persons, and anything else you value off the ice as
there will be thin ice somewhere no matter how cold it is or for how long
the cold lasts.
For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of
concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional
staff members. Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!
For additional information, check the following links:
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