Hi, I'm new to the forum and have about six hundred or so questions to ask, but I'll start with just one. I have an approx. 250 gallon pond in Zone 6, deepest section is 25". I have 2 fantails and 3 comets, a couple of water lillies and a marginal plant, also some 'aquarium plants'. For the winter, I am planning on putting a large - maybe 10" - PVC Y-shaped tubing on the bottom of the pond for the fish to winter over. I have just read that a small amount of accumulated pond gunk should be left on the bottom for the fish to nest in. I had planned on removing every shread of debris from the bottom, but now I'm not sure.
Does this sound like a good idea? Makes sense to me, but this is my first winter with a pond so what do I know? I already love these five little fishies and want them to make it to Spring. I am looking forward to all the help, support and info from seasoned ponders that I can get. Thanks!