8/24/99

Questions:

I installed a small pond last month. I bought one water hyacinth and one water lily as well as a supply of duck weed along with the plastic liner. The raccoons feasted on the plants the very first night!

Needless to say, I have not replenished their gourmet treats.

1.Please advise if you know of any plants I could add which the raccoons would refuse.
2. I would like to add fish, but I suspect the raccoons would be even more enthralled.
3. I live in Toronto (Canada). The pond is about two feet deep. What should I do to prepare for winter?>i.e. Do I have to drain the pond? Should I winter the plants inside? How do I do that? Please advise.

I have a small pump, but it is not enough to keep the water "fresh". So I am quite anxious to sweeten the water and improve my enjoyment. Many thanks for your help.

Answers:
Barbara,

1. I would use fox or coyote urine to deter the raccoons. It works well and is easier than a trap.

2. The raccoon is a wader not a swimmer the only fish he is going to get are the extremely sick ones.

3. Clean the organic matter out of the pond bottom. Remove the tropical plants. Pull all the old foliage off of the hardy plants and sink them for the winter. Plug in your heater and bubbler and let it snow.

Thanks and I hope that this was helpful,