Autumn is a time of change for ponds - as the temperature drops so a pond begins to slow down in readiness for the harsher winter months. A little bit of help from the pondkeeper can make this an easy transition for fish and plants.

As the temperature begins to drop start feeding your fish wheatgerm food. This food has a lower protein content but is high in fat, an ideal combination for cooler weather. Feeding should also be reduced as undigested food can cause health problems for fish and protein foam. You should resist increasing the feeding even on warmer days as the fish will still not be able to digest the food fully.

Pond plants will begin to die back during autumn and leaves will fall. Netting over the pond will help reduce the amount of leaves that go into the pond, alternatively regular skimming will keep the surface clear. Pond plants should be trimmed back, again, to reduce the amount of decaying matter that gives off carbon dioxide and can pollute the water. This is also a good time to give the pond a thorough clean-out, removing any silt or sediment.

As autumn turns to winter and temperatures drop further, the fish will move deeper in the pond and become less active. Feeding should now be stopped completely and the pump raised off the bottom of the pond so the bottom layer of water is not disturbed.