Winter Ready Checklist: A Complete List Of Products Your Pond Needs For Winter

Backyard Oasis • October 21, 2025

Do you have everything you need for winter?

Are you having the Backyard Oasis do all the work to close down your pond for the winter? Or are you going the DIY route and closing it yourself?


Regardless of your answer, there are a few vital supplies to have on hand in order to be successful. 

The Winter-Ready Checklist

The following checklist is to give you a broad overview of the products you need and a jumping-off point to make sure you have what you need to get your pond winter-ready. Want a printable version? Download it here!


To learn more about the specifics behind each item just click the provided link if available. Each post gives an in-depth overview of why each item is vital to get your pond winter-ready, how to choose the right one for your pond, and its application process.


Make sure you have the following...

✔️ Pond Netting

As the leaves begin to fall, you will want to cover the pond with a net. This will prevent the accumulation of leaves in the bottom of the pond which then build up and turn into poisonous gases.


✔️ Spring & Autumn Fish Food

When the water temperature is consistently below 65°F your fish need a reduced protein, high carbohydrate food to ease them into winter hibernation. Make sure you have enough Spring & Autumn Fish Food to get you through until your water is consistently below 40°F when your fish officially hibernate for the season.


✔️ Spring & Fall Clean Treatment

This cold water bacteria replaces your existing weekly treatment plan once your pond water is consistently below 55°F. This is used to accelerate the decomposition of leaves, twigs, and sediment that builds up and then turns into poisonous gas. When used in addition to Pond Netting you can double those effects.


✔️ Pond Thermometer

The above two items and their usage gets determined by the temperature of your pond water. As such, make sure you have a Pond Thermometer to make sure you are maximizing those products and their effects.


✔️ Pond De-Icer

Before the first winter storm, a De-Icer is vital to creating a hole within the ice. This allows any gases that get built up over the winter to escape and a place for oxygen to get into the pond.


✔️ Pond Aeration Kit

An Aerator provides constant motion of air bubbles through the water to help prevent ice from forming and assist the De-Icer in keeping an opening in the ice. Even more importantly it also provides a source of oxygen for your hibernating fish.

What's Next?

If you are having Backyard Oasis help you close your pond this season be sure to let us know which items you still need so that we can bring them to the appointment.


Are you DIYing your Pond Closing this year? Check out our other posts to help you learn how to close your pond for the winter from start to finish.

Open By Appointment Only Until April 2026

By Backyard Oasis • November 10, 2025
The 2025 Season Is Over Thank You For Supporting Small This Year We cannot thank you enough for being a part of our Backyard Oasis family! 2025 was a big year for us tranitioning to a new location - a building we own that can grow with us. Its crazy to think back to winter last year and the mad dash we made to get us ready in time to open in time for Spring. We weren't even sure we would be able to have fish or plants given how much of a project it was! And yet, 2025 opened even better than we imagined with those in place and all our amazing customers making the transition to the new location to continue supporting small. And spoilers...we are using winter this year to make some fun updates for our 2026 season. Can't spoil anything yet but let's just say there are PLANS upon PLANS getting worked on during this off season to continue to be your best resource to create your dream Backyard Oasis. All that to say...thank you for an awesome 2025 and we honestly can't wait to see you in the Spring! (Unless you need an appointment this winter for supplies of course - then we will get the privilege of seeing you earlier ;) Do You Need Winter Pond Essentials? We get it! Things happen! If you find yourself in need of supplies reach out for an appointment to stock up on: De-icers Pond nets Fish food for colder temps Water treatments and beneficial bacteria If you’re not sure what you might be missing, we’ve put together a simple Winter Pond Prep Checklist to help you make sure you’re fully covered. 👉 Check out the full checklist here. We’ll reopen for the 2026 pond season with regular hours on April 7th, 2026 — but that doesn’t mean we disappear during winter! Open by Appointment During the Off-Season After November 8th our storefront will closed for the 2025 season, but we’ll still be open by appointment throughout the off-season. If you need supplies, have questions, or run into a pond issue, call and leave a detailed message — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. And if your pond ever freezes over completely , don’t panic, but do act quickly. You have about 72 hours to get it opened up again to keep your fish safe. We’re always here to help you figure out the best solution. Santa Saturdays & Porch Pot Classes We have truly loved offering our Porch Pot Classes and giving back to the community through Santa Saturdays the last several winters. Unfortunately our new building and the completed space available is not large enough to accommodate these events. We are hoping to one day provide events again during the season and will update you with an invite as soon as its possible. See You in the Spring! We can’t thank you enough for another great season. Every year, we’re reminded how special this community of pond lovers is. Take good care of your ponds (and your fish!) this winter, and we’ll see you again in the spring when everything starts to wake up.

Season Ends November 8th: Enjoy Regular Hours Until Then

By 7016436703 • October 28, 2025
Season Closing Soon Don’t Miss Your Chance to Stock Up & Snag Our Upgraded Fish Sale! Pond season is winding down, and as the air cools off, we’re getting ready to tuck things in for winter. But before we do — there’s still time to visit Backyard Oasis and get what you need for a smooth, stress-free winter season. Our last open day of the year is Saturday, November 8th , so if you’ve been meaning to stop in, now’s the time! We’ve Upgraded Our Fish Sale! To wrap up the season right, we’ve upgraded our fish sale — it’s now Buy ONE, Get ONE FREE on all fish , and yes, that means every size is included! Check out the blog post to see what sizes we still have in stock. If you’ve been eyeing a few new additions for your pond, or want to balance out your fish community before winter, this is your last chance before we close for the year. Don’t Forget Your Winter Pond Essentials Before the frost really sets in, make sure your pond is ready. Stock up on: De-icers Pond nets Fish food for colder temps Water treatments and beneficial bacteria If you’re not sure what you might be missing, we’ve put together a simple Winter Pond Prep Checklist to help you make sure you’re fully covered. 👉 Check out the full checklist here. We’ll reopen for the 2026 pond season on April 7th, 2026 — but that doesn’t mean we disappear during winter! Open by Appointment During the Off-Season After November 8th, our storefront will close, but we’ll still be open by appointment throughout the off-season. If you need supplies, have questions, or run into a pond issue, call and leave a detailed message — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.  And if your pond ever freezes over completely , don’t panic, but do act quickly. You have about 72 hours to get it opened up again to keep your fish safe. We’re always here to help you figure out the best solution. See You in the Spring! We can’t thank you enough for another great season. Every year, we’re reminded how special this community of pond lovers is. Take good care of your ponds (and your fish!) this winter, and we’ll see you again in the spring when everything starts to wake up.

Pond Heaters 101: What it is, how it helps, and best practices to install for a successful winter

By 7016436703 • October 17, 2025
DISCLAIMER: The following advice is for our Michigan friends though it would also apply to anyone else living in Zone 6 on the Hardiness Zone Map (check out which zone you on in here ).

Why A Thermometer Is Your #1 Tool For Your Pond

By Backyard Oasis • October 14, 2025
Why you need a thermometer for a pond
Discount exclusive for event attendees

Scratch and Save at Backyard Oasis: Unveil Your Special Deal!

By Backyard Oasis • May 12, 2025
Discover the exclusive Scratch and Save cards at Backyard Oasis! Uncover discounts of 10-20% off a wide range of products, from durable Studio M garden décor to Michigan-themed gifts and home accents. Learn how you can receive one of these surprise discount cards and explore our unique offerings, including eco-friendly items and thoughtful bereavement products. Mention this blog post during your visit to receive a Scratch and Save card and enjoy savings on your next purchase. Visit us in Flint, Michigan, to experience the magic of Backyard Oasis!

Backyard Oasis at Flint’s Biggest Home & Garden Event – Free Admission!

By Backyard Oasis • March 29, 2025
This Event Has Passed – But We're Just Getting Started! Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth at the Home Show! While this event is over, we’re already planning for the next one — so stay tuned for future shows we’ll be part of. If you missed us and want to connect, we’d love to chat! Reach out for a 1:1 conversation about your outdoor space, project ideas, or service needs — no pressure, just a chance to dream and plan together. 👉 Contact us today to get the conversation started! Join Backyard Oasis at the Flint Home & Garden Show! 🌿🏡 Looking for inspiration to transform your backyard into a true oasis? Join Backyard Oasis at the Flint Home & Garden Show —an exciting event where you can explore ideas, talk with experts, and discover local businesses that can help you bring your outdoor and home improvement dreams to life! 📍 Location: Dort Financial Center, Flint, MI 📅 Dates & Times: Saturday, April 5th: 10 AM – 5 PM Sunday, April 6th: 11 AM – 4 PM Admission & Parking: FREE! What is the Flint Home & Garden Show? The Flint Home & Garden Show is the area’s premier event for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve their home or outdoor space. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure environment where you can browse, ask questions, and connect with local experts in landscaping, home improvement, and more. Whether you’re planning a small refresh or a major renovation, you’ll find valuable resources and inspiration all under one roof. Plus, it’s a great way to support local businesses that specialize in making homes and gardens shine! And the best part? It’s completely FREE to attend! No cost, no pressure—just an easy way to explore great ideas for your home and backyard. Why Visit Backyard Oasis at the Show? 🌊🌿 At Backyard Oasis , we specialize in water features, landscaping, and outdoor transformations that turn ordinary backyards into stunning, peaceful retreats. Whether you’re interested in a koi pond, a fountain, or a full landscape makeover , this is a perfect opportunity to: ✔ Chat with us in a chill, no-pressure environment – Ask questions, explore ideas, and get expert advice tailored to your space. ✔ See what’s possible for your home – Discover how ponds, waterfalls, and landscaping can enhance your property. ✔ Find out about our services – We offer custom landscaping, water feature design, seasonal maintenance, and more! ✔ Explore other great local businesses – Connect with vendors who specialize in home improvement, gardening, and outdoor living. Where to Find Backyard Oasis at the Show! 📍 Location Inside the Event: Right when you walk in you will see our smiling faces on the right side! Excited to visit? So are we! We’re getting our space ready and will share our booth details as soon as we have them. Stay tuned for updates right here, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram for real-time details.  Plan Your Visit & Join the Fun! 🌱 Who Should Attend? Homeowners, gardeners, DIYers, and anyone looking to improve their home or outdoor space. 🎟 How to Get In? Just show up— admission and parking are 100% FREE! 📍 Where to Find Us? We’ll be at our booth, ready to chat and share ideas! 🔗 Learn More About the Show: Flint Home & Garden Show Website 👉 Thinking about a new pond or landscaping project? Stop by and let’s talk! We’d love to meet you and help bring your backyard vision to life. Let’s Make Your Backyard an Oasis! If you’re ready to take your outdoor space to the next level, don’t miss this event! Come visit Backyard Oasis at the Flint Home & Garden Show and get inspired for your next project. 📅 Mark your calendar and we’ll see you there!
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