With the autumnal equinox making her debut this week, I can't help but crave the fiery colors that come along with this season. As my children watch from our window our punctual maple next to our backyard waterfall starts to unveil her seasonal splendor. Oooh's and ahhh's fill our living room. A touch of magic is in the air and the questions start from my eldest daughter. "Daddy, how did you do that?! Did you paint the leaves while I slept? Oh, thank you. You used my favorite colors!"

Since we live in Southern California, we spend ample amounts of time in our yard all year round.  Because of this we chose an assortment of plants, shrubs and trees that show their beauty at different times of the year. As the seasons change some plants grow dormant while others are coming out of their shell.

Try the following in your landscape  to add some autumn splendor:

From Left: Baby's Breath, Sedum Angelina, Japanese Red Maple, Barberry Shrub

Winter is a time when the whole world slows down. This is true for your pond life as well. Days are short and our life giving sun is farthest from us. In turn your pond temperature can drop significantly. If your pond water goes below 60 degrees there are a few tips that can help keep your fish and plants  more comfortable.

- Remove your tropical water plants and store in a greenhouse for a few months.

- More hardy water lilies can be transferred to deeper water to keep  frost away from its root. You may also store them wrapped in moist newspaper in plastic bags in a cool dark place like a cellar or closet.

- Cut upright plant stalks 1 - 2 inches above water surface.

- Remove all dead foliage and grasses.

- Koi food can be changed as well. In the warmer months Koi food should be high in protein. When the seasons change and the water cools Koi food should  be high in carbohydrates.

Add a splash of drama to your pond or lake with a floating fountain. Floating fountains are an excellent option when it comes to aerating your pond or lake and by now we all know how San Diego Ponds feels about aerating your water feature, an aerated body of water is a happy healthy body of water.  San Diego Ponds found a great product called Toba Fountains. Their product is completely wireless battery operated and is controlled by remote. Their floating fountains have an assortment of spray and light patterns that can be changed with a click of a button. Some of the most popular spray patterns are; the bubbler, bell shaped, geyser, ring, tulip or the multi-tiered.  There is an option to place your fountain on automatic which gives you a water light show any time you wish. Hey, who wouldn't want a taste of Vegas in their own backyard? Think of what your house guests will say when they have their own private water show at your next party. It will surely be the talk of the town.

Check out Toba Fountains today!

www.tobafountains.com