Water Garden Winterization

What is included in a winterization?

Our winterization service is comprehensive in preparing your pond for the upcoming winter season. Please see our water garden winterization page for a complete description of what each visit includes.

Can I have my winterization done after October?

Due to the risk of freezing damages and early winter weather, we no longer offer winterizations after the start of November. 

When do I stop feeding my fish? 

Please discontinue feeding your fish when the water temperature drops to 50F, or at least two weeks before your winterization is scheduled (whichever occurs first).

Won’t my fish be hungry after the winterization?

Shortly after the winterization, your fish should slowly transition into hibernation as the water temperature continues to decrease. Upon reaching this stage, they will not have the need to eat any more than the occasional strand of algae or organic debris until spring. The digestive systems of fish significantly slow after the water temperature falls below 50F, which greatly risks their ability to fully digest food in their system.

I don’t have any fish in my pond. Does it still need to be winterized?

A comprehensive winterization is highly recommended whether or not you have fish in your pond. While installing an aerator and/or de-icer may not be necessary for ponds without fish, the remainder of the service is still vital in preserving the long-term ecological balance and preventing ice damage and many other issues from occurring next season.

What do I do with my pumps and filters for the winter?

At the conclusion of the visit, we will leave you with a summary card including specific storage instructions for your pond equipment.

Does my winter equipment need to be serviced yearly?

A yearly servicing of your winter water garden equipment will help to ensure the units are in good working order headed into the winter. Units that are not serviced before the winter are twice as likely to malfunction or completely fail later in the winter when they are needed most.