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The reds and yellows of autumn will begin to show soon, some reflecting on the water surface. While this colorful season invites one to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery, our water gardens demand a little more attention before winter sets in.
Just as we remove the yellow and brown leaves and flowers from terrestrial plants, we need to remove them from the water plants as well. Excess growth needs to be removed as well as frost-damaged plants. If left in the pond through winter, the plant tissue gives off methane gas as it decays and increases the build up of black sludge on the bottom of the pond. Methane gas kills fish.
Leaves from trees, whether they overhang the water or not, always find their way into the pond. Daily removal is best. You can remove them with a screen or net regularly or you can stretch a fine mesh tightly over your pond. Anchor the edges with stones, bricks, or stakes put into the soil (don't puncture the liner) to keep the netting from sagging into the water. If you do not have an overhanging tree, you can try temporary fencing around your pond to prevent the leaves from blowing in.
If the leaves sink to the bottom before you get the chance to remove them, you can use your hands or a small, soft, plastic rake to remove them from the bottom. Be careful not to damage your liner. For larger ponds, a pool sweep or vacuum may be used, especially if you have few plants or fish.
Once the foliage is gone, your fish need somewhere else to hide. Pieces of pipe six inches in diameter can be placed in the bottom of the pond as hiding places from predators. If you plan on keeping fish in the pond all winter, be sure the pond will not freeze solid (36 inches deep or more) and be sure you have a way to oxygenate the water.
If you plan on removing your submersible pump for winter, be sure to remove it before the water freezes. Clean the pump and service it before storing. The waterproof electrical connection for the pump could be used for a water heater if you choose to use one.
Remember that as the temperature gets cooler, the fish's metabolism slows so they will not eat as much food. If you plan on bringing them inside for winter, be sure your aquarium is ready before hand. Bring them in when the water temperature drops to about 60 degrees F and make sure there is no more than a five-degree difference between the pond water temperature and the aquarium water temperature.