Caring for your pond in autumn.

• Net your pond – To ensure that your fish are protected from predators but also to prevent leaves entering the pond water. Rotting leaves in the water will release gases and nitrates which are harmful to the fish and will also encourage algae.
• Looking after pond plants – Look to cut back and divide pond plants which have grown too much, also relocate any plants that are not hardy and cannot survive the winter by covering with a protective fleece.
• Adjust fish food quantity – Fish do not eat as much during the autumn and winter months. Uneaten food that remains in the water increases the risk of disease to your fish.
• Water Quality – take a test of the water quality using a pond water quality test kit and take any steps required if water quality is found to be poor.
• Algae treatment – If your pond has blanket weed and duckweed remove by hand or if necessary use a chemical treatment.
• Top up pond – If like this year the weather has remained warm then keep on topping up the pond with water. The more forceful water is added to the pond then the more oxygen will be added and chlorine dispersed.

If you require assistance in maintaining your pond then please contact us today on 01443 841288 / 07832 134176

For more information on the above and for other great advice and information about looking after your pond and garden visit the Gardener Blog