Fall 2007

     As the weather is changing and we get into the fall season, there are changes also happening around the pond. Shorter days and cool mornings are most noticeable. Soon the water plants will be fading and going into dormancy. The water will get cooler and then colder and we will have to pay attention to the feeding schedule of the fish. And, of course, then the leaves will begin to fall and we begin that special favorite task. All of these events require a few things to be aware of in our ponds.

     As the frost puts an end to most of the greenery around the pond make a point to remove the dead leaves and stems. Excess organic material only causes maintenance issues later on and your pond will look neater and cleaner. Remember to check your skimmer baskets and nets more often. During the summer you might be able to go a week or 2 between checks but there will be a lot more debris in the baskets in the coming months. It is usually helpful to cover the pond and stream with a net if you have a lot of leaves and who doesnít. There are several methods of using the nets. Most people just lay the net over the rocks and then every few days pull it back to get those leaves out of the water and then put it back. Some will set up a framework that is more elaborate and will not need to be moved. You can experiment of call us to help you. When the leaves get in the water for several days they will release tannins that turn the water a tea color. Although not really harmful some donít care for it and the color can be removed with activated charcoal. Just put the bag in the biofalls and it will clear up in a few days.

     As the water temperature cools reduce the amount you feed your fish. Also, it is better to go to a lower protein food that is designed for cooler water conditions. Remember to stop feeding the fish when the water gets below 50 degrees. This is usually around the first of November here in St. Louis, but obviously weather is variable.

     We held our first build-a-pondless waterfall day at Crabapple Cove Nursery and had a good turnout. The project was completed on a beautiful 80 degree day in mid September. There seems to be more and more interest in watergardening these days and we are proud to be contributing by sharing our knowledge so that others have a successful experience in the hobby. We will have more seminars as the season winds down and build-a-pond demonstrations next year.

     So enjoy the change of seasons sitting out around your pond on those cool evenings with a cozy sweatshirt and maybe a fire to warm you, and also during those beautiful Indian Summer days when the sky is so blue and the trees are in their glory. And if you donít have a pond I suggest that you seriously consider getting one. Being around the pond is a joyful experience that enriches our lives.