Can solar pool blankets keep ponds warmer?

[Joshaeus]

Hi all! I found this while looking on the bay of E; https://www.ebay.com/itm/4-x-8-Rectangle-Blue-Swimming-Pool-Solar-Heater-Blanket-Cover-16-Mil-Thick/400858004915?_trkparms=aid=111001&algo=REC.SEED&ao=1&asc=20160908105057&meid=30cd77d40697433092a2d6756d4ebec9&pid=100675&rk=1&rkt=15&sd=400858004915&itm=400858004915&_trksid=p2481888.c100675.m4236&_trkparms=pageci:d2894a4b-2b33-11e9-a910-74dbd1804ac7|parentrq:ca6319081680ab110732e95fffc48308|iid:1

I was wondering if I could cut a piece of this to cover a large part of my water garden during spring and fall to extend outdoor time for my fish (which, while not tropical, would not survive the pond freezing over). I was wondering if strategic use of these could extend my outdoor fish season by about a month. What are your thoughts? Thanks

 

[Magzire]

There was a German couple that when away on holiday and decided to put a cover on it. Couple of days later the koi where all dead, starved of oxygen. So I wouldn't recommend it.

 

[Tula]

I use a pool solar cover as my winter cover for my pond. I do not lay it directly on the water, but rather drape it over a structure of boards. It has made a big difference in keeping my pond open during the winter. I would NOT place it directly on the water.

 

[Joshaeus]

Ah...so I could lay it over the pond, but NOT directly on the water surface, is that right? Obviously I would still need to remove it every day to feed the fish. (PS...do you think it would warm the water garden by using it as a 'blanket' around its sides?)

 

[Magzire]

Actually the people i mention had it resting on water surface, they where floating foam blocks as i recall now. Once there is a gap and keep the cold breeze out it will definitely help.

 

[Joshaeus]

I think I understand now...I have the container pond with water in it, have an inch or two of air at the top, then have the insulation? Also, could a mini greenhouse keep water gardens warm for a bit longer? Just found this adorable little greenhouse that would fit one of my resin half barrels perfectly; https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Pop-up-Greenhouse-Small-Indoor-Outdoor-Gardening-Flowerpot-Cover-Backyar/264056332639?hash=item3d7afbe15f:g:kvAAAOSwNphb-Cng:rk:5:pf:1&frcectupt=true

 

[Stephen Noble]

I think you are on the right track. Check out this link, it might save you a few bucks:https://www.amazon.com/porayhut-Greenhouse-Gardening-Tent，Backyard-Protector/dp/B07GVFDVMM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=mini+pop+up+greenhouse&qid=1549642886&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1