As colder weather creeps in, it’s time to get your backyard pond or waterfall ready for the season ahead. Winter can be tough on water features, especially if you’re not prepared. With a few simple steps, you can protect your investment and set your pond up for a healthy return in the spring!
Clean Out Debris Before It Freezes
Start by removing leaves, twigs, and other debris from the surface and bottom of your pond. If left to decompose, this organic matter can throw off the water quality and harm any fish or plants. A skimmer net works well for weekly cleanup, and installing a pond net during the fall can reduce buildup altogether.
Trim Plants and Prepare for Cold Weather
Cut back dead foliage on aquatic plants to prevent it from falling into the water and decaying. Hardy plants can stay submerged, but tender or tropical varieties should be moved indoors. If you have fish, stop feeding them once water temperatures drop below 50 degrees. Their metabolism slows in the cold, and uneaten food can pollute the water.
Decide Whether to Keep Your Waterfall Running
Some homeowners like to keep their waterfall running year-round for the look and sound. If you go that route, be ready to monitor it closely. Ice buildup can cause water to overflow or damage your pump. Make sure your water level stays consistent and refill it as needed.
Prefer to shut things down? Go ahead and drain the waterfall feature, remove the pump, and store it indoors. Clean all pump components and let them dry before packing them away. This helps prevent cracks or damage caused by freezing temperatures.
Keep a Hole in the Ice for Gas Exchange
If your pond contains fish, you’ll need to maintain a small opening in the ice for oxygen to enter and gases to escape. A floating pond de-icer or aerator can help keep things circulating and maintain a safe environment all winter long.
Get Professional Help for a Stress-Free Season
Winterizing a pond can take time and effort, but it makes a big difference in the long term. If you’d rather not do it yourself, professionals can handle everything from cleaning and trimming to pump removal and storage.
If you’re in Annapolis or the surrounding Maryland area and want your pond to stay in top condition year-round, call on the team at Better View Landscape LLC. Our pond maintenance services include spring and autumn cleanups, regular summer treatments to control algae and plant growth, winter monitoring for ice and gas exchange, and a full aftercare maintenance package that keeps your water feature looking beautiful and healthy season after season!
Call us at (410)921‑1100 or fill out our online contact form to learn more.