Arizona may skip dramatic seasonal shifts, but your pond still benefits from thoughtful preparation. A little effort now ensures your water feature glides smoothly into winter and emerges ready for spring. Proper pond maintenance protects fish, plants, and equipment, while also keeping your backyard retreat looking its best.
Your Fall-to-Winter Pond Prep Guide
Here’s how we suggest you go about your winter prep:
Clean Out Debris
Debris and muck can quickly deplete oxygen and throw your pond’s ecosystem off balance. A pond clean-out removes debris before it sinks to the bottom, where it’s harder to manage.
Trim Plants Wisely
(Cut back dying foliage to prevent decay, but retain rooted plants and evergreens in place. They continue providing natural filtration and fish habitat even in cooler weather.
Switch Fish Feed
As water cools, fish’s digestion slows. Transition them to wheat-germ fish food or reduce feeding altogether. Less feeding = less waste, which means clearer water and healthier fish throughout the winter.
Inspect Pumps, Skimmers, and Filters
Clean out pump and filters; replace worn parts. If temperatures stay mild, keep your pond aerator running to avoid winter spillover problems
Add or Adjust Lighting
Shorter days = more early evening time to enjoy your feature. Install warm-toned LEDs lights for atmosphere and security.
Plan Ahead for Spring
Now is the ideal time to schedule bigger upgrades, like adding a fountainscape, new filtration system, or pond aeration kit. Booking projects now ensures your pond will be spring-ready without waiting for the busy season.

🪷Prep doesn’t have to be a chore. Let PondscapesAZ handle it for you. From clean-outs to upgrades, our maintenance services keep your oasis in top condition.
View our maintenance packages, give us a call at 480-987-7781, or contact us online.

Owner, Lead Designer
Ralph Biezad is the owner and lead designer of Pondscapes, a premier pond and water-feature design-build company based in Gilbert, Arizona. With more than 25 years of experience, Ralph has created hundreds of custom ponds, waterfalls, and aquatic landscapes throughout the Southwest. His philosophy centers on designing natural-looking, low-maintenance environments that blend seamlessly with Arizona’s climate and terrain.
As a Certified Aquascape Contractor, Ralph is recognized nationwide for his craftsmanship, creativity, and commitment to eco-balanced water features. His designs emphasize sustainability, habitat creation, and bringing clients closer to nature through water.

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