Pond Algae Control and Removal

Is algae clouding up your pond? There are many ways to prevent algae growth; UV lights, Barley Straw and plants to name a few. Here are some tips on how to prevent foggy water and also how to reduce it when it starts up.

 

Algae flare ups are typically caused by the warm weather brought in by the long days of summer. Spring is a time when all plants start to bud and grow, including the algae spores found naturally in your pond water.

 

1. UV Clarifiers

UV clarifiers are cool, also known as UV pond filter or UV sterilizers are VERY beneficial when it comes to algae prevention, it KILLS it! UV sterilizers use built-in ultraviolet light to kill the spores that breed algae. If you have a UV light that is old, it may be time to replace the UV lamp/light bulb that is inside.

   

2. Lower algae’s nutrients

Algae, like any plant, requires nutrients to grow. Replace filter often, if possible use filters that are designed to remove phosphate; which is the nutrient mainly used by the algae in your pond.

 

3. Barley Straw

Barley Straw a natural way to prevent algae growth. It comes in a variety forms and is said to by very effective. I swear by it!!! Read more below.

 

4. Aeration

Aeration is another simple and natural way to reduce the plague called algae. Algae thrives in water that is full of carbon dioxide, such as you see in stagnant water. Aeration or the oxygenation of of your pond water will provide a more difficult environment for algae to grow.   

 

5. Plants

You cant get any more natural than plants to prevent algae growth. Same as aeration reduces the CO2 levels in your ponds water, so will plants. Since plants use CO2 to live as well, by placing more plants in your pond you will create a battle for life that the plant will always win! The algae will drown to death, ironic?  

 

6. Additives

Additives can be purchased online or at many pet stores. There are many types of bacteria in your pond that are beneficial. Manually increasing these additives can decrease the algae’s growth.

 

7. Keep pond clean

Cleaning your pond regularly can keep your pond clear. Excessive food, leaves and fish waste products can make your pond unstable and cloudiness caused by bad bacteria or algae.

 

8. Take action immediately

Do your teeth stay clean by not brushing’em? No. The longer you wait to zero in on your pond water problem the worse it WILL get guaranteed!!!

 

There is no real way to completely prevent algae from growing without the use of strong chemicals like bleach, but you can greatly reduce it without effecting the pond life (plants and fish) by applying these helpful tips.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I Swear by Wheat

Seriously, I bet my life on it. I had my favorite pond up and turn green on me after years of perfect clearness. One day I walked outside to look at my georgious baby Butterfly Koi and “Aak!”, it looked like a jumbo shot of wheat grass from Jamba Juice. I t