How To Ensure Your Fountains, Ponds and Planters Survive The Winter Weather
Ponds
Ponds can transform any backyard into an oasis. The running water, fish and plants attract all sorts of attention. Now that the winter season is approaching, we must perform a few simple tasks to maintain the beauty and health of our ponds.

Fountains
Fountains are a sight to behold in the summer months. Come winter, most people fear cracking or cover with them with large blue tarps that stand out like a sore thumb. We have a few suggestions that will have your fountain keep its splendour all year round!
WINTER FROST: Before winter or first frost, fountains should be raised off of the ground surface with risers to prevent it from soaking up moisture and freezing, which could cause crumbling on the bottom of the piece.
WINTER PROTECTION: Remove all pumps, plugs, and small components from the fountain and store indoors. All water must be drained from the fountain. Ensure water does not accumulate in the basin or any bowl and freeze as this may cause cracking. Campania covers may be used once the fountain is cleaned and free of water, as they are one way breathable (allow trapped moisture out, but rain and dust cannot enter) and come in a neutral tone that blends into any landscape. If the piece permits, it may be stored indoors
SALT & CHEMICAL: Ensure your fountain is kept clear from harsh salts and chemicals, as these may damage the stains and/or concrete.
Planters
Create Year-long Interest with planters!
Your planters that were once blossoming and vibrant in the summer are now beginning to look spent as the cold weather sets in. If you are like us, you want your planters to be used year-round and are looking forward to decorating the planters for the winter season. This can be done safely avoiding winter damage with the following tips:
DRAINAGE: The key to winter success for concrete planters is drainage. Planters should be raised off of the ground or patio using small lifts or decorative risers to help with drainage and to avoid frost damage. We recommend using a ¾ or larger gravel in the bottom of the planter - fill approximately 2/3 full with the gravel. Next, place a piece of filter cloth on the gravel to prevent soil from draining through. Finally, place a planted arrangement on top or fill the remaining space with soil and decorate accordingly. You can keep this same soil/gravel setup all season long. Ensure there are drainage holes in all outdoor planters
SALT/CHEMICALS: Salt is great for keeping pathways clear of ice; however, it is not great when it comes in contact with concrete planters. Keep all salt and harsh chemicals away from concrete planters as they will cause damage.
**Remember**
Trapped Water in Any Planter, Once Frozen, Will Expand and May Cause Damage