When the pond is in a northerly or climate with snow and ice on the top of it, find out what your frost zone is. That will tell you how deep the water might freeze. If your pond is 21” deep and the frost zone is 18”, your koi will be able to weather it when they are small. When they grow, they will get frost burn unless you are able to use a good deicer that opens more than 1” of water for gas exchange. You may want to erect an igloo type of cover for your pond using PVC and thick sheets of greenhouse cloth. This year, even the south has been hit with extreme temperatures.
When a fish is lying on its side in the pond, it is telling you it has been too cold for too long. That particular fish was perhaps not ready for the cold. It may live and it may not. It will depend upon the fish at that point. Eliminating stress by giving the fish the best nutrition, cleanest water through proper water changes, and safe stocking throughout the summer season will give them the best chance for survival in winter months. We have found that the use of Microbe-Lift products is extremely beneficial in the maintenance of cleaner ponds and reducing stress on the occupants of your pond. Our team is always there to assist you. (by Carolyn Weise)
