Fish pond maintenance is crucial for successful growth of its inhabitants. Decomposing debris in the pond will release ammonia, nitrite and nitrates into the water which can be harmful, sometimes fatal to your fish so set aside a time each spring to give it a good clean.
If the pond isn't too cluttered, fish can sometimes be left in the water while this is being carried (only half of the water will need to be removed). More often than not, however, it is a better idea to catch the fish and transfer them to a temporary bucket or tank so that the pond can be drained completely.
As the winter months draw near, the fish need to be prepared. As mentioned already, fish cannot easily digest food in lower temperatures, so their food intake will need to be gradually reduced and completely stopped when the temperature falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Trim all of the pond plants before the winter and remove as much debris as possible to prevent them from rotting under the water. Covering the pond with a net or mesh will restrict leaves entering and rotting in the pond and becoming harmful to the fish.
As winter draws in - Fish pond maintenance is important to keep the pond from freezing over. If the pond ices over, toxic gases build up under the surface. It is also necessary to remove the pump and replace with a re-circulating pump near the top of the pond to provide oxygen. A heater or pond de-icer will also help to release toxic gases and provide needed oxygen.
Birdhouses
