To prepare your pond for fall, remove leaves and debris, trim aquatic plants, adjust fish feeding, and prepare for freezing temperatures.
1. Remove leaves and debris
- Install pond netting to prevent falling leaves from entering the pond.
- Empty the skimmer basket regularly.
- Remove accumulated leaves and organic debris before they decompose.
- If decomposing leaves discolor the water, remove the debris and use activated carbon to help restore clarity.
2. Trim aquatic plants
- Remove dead or brown leaves from aquatic plants.
- Stop fertilizing as temperatures cool.
- After the first heavy frost, trim dead plant growth and remove tropical plants that cannot survive freezing temperatures.
- Cut cattails above the waterline or leave them standing through winter.
3. Adjust fish feeding
As pond water cools, fish digestion slows.
- Below 60°F (16°C): Switch to cold-water fish food.
- Below 50°F (10°C): Stop feeding fish to prevent digestive problems.
- Monitor pond water temperature using a pond thermometer.
4. Prepare for winter
In colder climates, decide whether to keep the pond running or shut it down before freezing temperatures arrive.
For instructions, see What should I do with my pond in the Winter?.