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If you've decided to include a garden pond in your landscaping plans, you'll need to maintain it properly throughout the year. The changing seasons can bring specific problems to your pond. Luckily, there are steps you can take that will help keep your pond healthy all year long. Here are some step-by-step instructions on how to provide year-round care for your garden pond.

Prepare for the Freeze of Winter

As soon as winter approaches, you'll need to prepare for the freeze. The first thing you should do is turn the pump off. Your pump can wear out quickly if left operational during the freezing temperatures. The next thing you should do is install a floating deicer. The deicer is particularly important if you have fish in your pond. Finally, you'll need to work quickly to protect your water plants. Move your plants deep into the water, where the roots will be protected from the freezing temperatures. You'll also need to remove any dead leaves.

Get Ready for the Spring Warmth

During the spring, the weather – and the water – will start warming up. This is the time of year when you should get your pump up and ready, especially if you turned it off for the winter. You'll also need to remove the algae and pond scum that might have developed over the winter. The best way to do that is with a small pond vacuum. Finally, you'll need to fertilize your water plants and re-position them towards the surface of the water.

Things Will Really Heat Up in the Summer

Once the temperatures heat up for summer, you'll need to increase your pond maintenance, especially when it comes to vacuuming the algae buildup. The rising temperatures will speed up the algae growth. Vacuuming the bottom of your pond once a month during the summer will help control it. You'll also need to remove any dead leaves and foliage that collect in the pond. That type of debris can upset the balance of the pond.

Leaves Are Falling in Autumn

During the autumn, the falling leaves will require daily removal. Use a pool skimmer to remove the leaves from the surface of your pond. If you have large trees in your yard, you may want to place a leaf net over your pond. The leaf net will collect the leaves and make cleanup easier. It's also a good idea to clean your submersible pump during the fall, especially if leaves are collecting at the bottom of your pond. 

You should also talk with your pond liner manufacturer about any special care your pond liner may need.