The days are shorter and beginning to cool. The plants are hearty and lush and algae is finally starting to go away. The pond activity seems to be at a peak with the fish eating everything in sight as they prepare for the winter. This is the time to really enjoy the pond for all it has to offer. With just a few quick and easy considerations, you can be on your way to more relaxing and less maintenance this season.

Prune back some of the overgrowing plants to keep less plant material from decaying when the winter comes. Pruning also encourages healthier growth from the plant that will help it sustain through the winter.

If there are heavy leaf-shedding trees near your pond then you know how impossible it can be to keep your pond clean and clear of those fallen leaves. Spread netting across the pond to catch the falling foliage. This makes it much easier to keep the leaves out. These nets are currently in stock.

The decaying leaves, plant material, and uneaten food sitting at the bottom of your pond can be harmful to your fish. By skimming debris, and doing partial water changes, you can eliminate a lot of those potential problems that will just compound when the winter sets in.

Pay close attention to your fish’s eating habits as they will change over the next couple of months. Right now they might be eating like fat little hogs storing up for the winter, but when the water gets below 50-55 degrees, their eating will practically stop as their bodies aren’t capable of digesting most foods in such low temperatures. Any excess food that goes unnoticed, and is allowed to break down, will only be harmful to them during the winter. Do not overfeed!