Winterizing Fish Ponds

It is possible in most locations, even in zones Six or Seven climates, to leave fish in the pond during the winter if you winterize it properly. The method of winterizing your pond depends on the type of fish. Sensitive fish, including Cichlids, are warm-water fish and may have to be moved indoors if the pond is likely to freeze. Goldfish and Koi tend to do well in a pond, even in frigid weather.

Function

Winterizing your fish pond keeps the inhabitants and equipment safe during the frigid winter months.

Benefits

One of the benefits of winterizing your pond is that your fish won't have to be moved, a stressful situation that can lead to disease.

Time Frame

Begin the process of winterizing your pond in early fall by increasing the feeding frequency and amount so the fish can store fat.

Considerations

Plants that aren't considered hearty must be removed from the pond at the first signs of frost, as they will die during the winter and the decomposing matter can contaminate the water.

Warning

Ammonia poisoning is the top killer of pond inhabitants during the winter, especially when the temperature regularly falls below 50 degrees, because many owners continue to feed the fish normal portions.