As winter approaches, some precautions are necessary to maintain the health of your pond. Transitioning seasons mean changes for both the water temperature and the conditions for the fish, so take measures to keep both safe. Here are three ways to ensure your investment has a successful off-season.

A Guide to Pre-Winter Pond Care

1. Clean the Water

The pond is usually littered with debris by the time fall arrives. Remove the leaves floating on top and accumulating along the edges. If necessary, pump some water out to remove the mess with a hose more easily. Afterward, run a net over the surface to eliminate any fallout. If dirt piles on quickly, you can suspend it a few inches above the pond. Whether low or high, make sure it doesn’t touch the water, or it poses a safety hazard for any fish and frogs.

2. Inspect the Plants

Plants in the water also create debris in the off-season. Prune them, so decaying leaves and stems won’t contaminate the area during winter. Some greenery can tolerate the cold, but others won’t survive when temperatures drop. Move the sensitive ones indoors for the season. When the water reaches 70 degrees in the spring, it’s safe to return them.

3. Close the Pond

In most cases, New York winters are cold enough to warrant hiring a maintenance expert to close the pond, including the pump, ultraviolet clarifier, and filter. If left open, it will ice over. Try to store the equipment indoors to protect the parts. If you must keep them outside, make sure there is no water left inside, or it will freeze and cause damage.

The team at Clearly Aquatics offer quality pond maintenance in Ontario County, NY. They will ensure the health of your investment year-round, including following the necessary preventive steps in the fall, so it’s pristine when spring arrives. They’re also trained in aquatic weed, algae, and cattail control, as well as aeration services. Visit them online to find out how they can assist you this season, or call at (585) 657-7679 today to schedule an appointment.