While pond
winterizing kits are very helpful for winterizing ponds, they
are missing two important elements that are necessary for winterizing
a pond: time and patience. A pond winterizing kit is not going to
do everything for you. There are many things that you must do on your
own. You must:
· Remove organic debris – this could ferment over the
winter and ruin the water quality of your pond.
· Leave the fish alone – do not disturb them. They are
cold blooded and will be fine on their own. Let them hibernate. Before
winter hits, though, add mineral supplements – start adding
them early fall. Do not feed your fish too much once it gets colder
– when it is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you should only feed
your fish when they are actively looking for food (up on the top of
the pond).
· Leave your aerator on – it is still useful during the
winter, breaking down ammonia build up.
· Pond heater or de-icer – these are, perhaps, the most
common components in a pond winterizing kit. If you have a small pond,
you need a only a de-icer. Again, fish are cold blooded and can handle
the cold. The reason that you heat the pond is to create a hole in
the ice to allow toxic gases to escape.
If you are unable to find a pond winterizing kit to suit your needs,
you can create your own. You can have your pond winterizing kit handy
for when cold weather strikes. Include in it a pond heater or de-icer,
a pond cover, mineral supplements, etc.