Getting through the winter as a pond owner is not always very pleasant. It is perhaps the most difficult time of the year. The koi may not come directly to you when you approach the pond. Additionally, the desire to visit the pond might decrease due to the cold. What actions are the most efficient to take during the winter? Below, the most important tips are discussed.
How do I prepare my pond for winter?
You should keep your pond pump running during the winter. If you own an adjustable pond pump, you can reduce the water flow. Fish produce waste, such as droppings, in the water throughout the year. Therefore, it is important that the filter and the pump should keep working. This also helps reduce problems that may occur in the spring.
How do you prevent your pond from freezing?
The risk of freezing pipes increases when water flows slowly through them. This can lead to overflowing filters, burst pipes, or damaged filter boxes, along with all the complications that come with it. Therefore, make sure to insulate the filters and pipes properly, using materials like bubble wrap or similar materials.
Water quality of the pond in winter
The most important aspect for healthy flora and fauna in the pond is the water quality. During the winter period, the pH and carbonate hardness (kH) decrease, as the water is not regularly refreshed. If the carbonate hardness is too low, the pH crashes. This is called a pH crash. The result of this is the immediate death of the fish.
Regular water changes during the winter are therefore crucial. Additionally, ensure that the kH value remains high enough, at least 5.
In extreme cold, fish tend to move deeper towards the bottom. They seek a peaceful spot in the pond, so during the winter, you need to ensure reduced water flow. Water layers with different temperatures do not mix due to the decrease in water movement. The result is that it stays warmer at the bottom, allowing the koi to calmly overwinter.
What is acidity (pH)?
The pH value indicates how acidic or basic the water in your pond is. A pH between 7 and 8,5 and is ideal for a healthy pond. Too low or too high pH levels can cause stress in fish and disrupt the ecosystem. In winter, it is important to regularly check the pH, as the water is changed less frequently. A stable pH ensures that your pond stays in balance and your koi remain healthy.
What is carbonate hardness (kH)?
Carbonate hardness (kH) indicates the amount of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, in the water. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pH value. A kH of at least 5 is ideal for a stable pH in your pond. Too low kH values can lead to an unstable pH, which is harmful to fish and plants. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the kH, especially in winter, to maintain a healthy pond environment.
Should you turn off the UV-C lamp in the pond during winter?
It is not necessary to turn off the UV-C lamp it is not necessary to keep the UV-C lamp on during the autumn. Since there is less feeding, less sunlight, and the water temperature remains low, no algae or bacteria that would be killed by UV light will develop. However, make sure to turn the UV-C lamp back on once the temperature starts to rise in the spring.
How often should you feed fish in the pond?
Pond fish only need to be fed on demand when the temperature is below 8°C. The metabolism of fish at low temperatures slows down significantly, so it is not necessary to feed them much. Limit feeding in the autumn and winter when the water temperature drops below 15°C. Only use easily digestible food, such as Wheat Germ. Overfeeding can deteriorate the water quality of the pond, which may lead to disease or even death of the fish.
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A healthy pond in winter requires the right care and attention. After reading this blog, if you have any questions, want to know more about our products, or need advice about your specific situation, feel free to reach out. Our specialists are ready to help you!
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