Pond Algae - How To Treat Nuisance Pond Algae

Pond Algae is an all too common problem among pond owners around the world. Pond algae blooms are usually brought about by things like season, temperature and available nutrients. There is a lot a pond owner can do to limit the spread of pond algae, this guide will highlight those methods that work.

Pond scum is a very general name to describe a whole bunch of pond algae that can take over the pond. Their names and details are not important. Suffice to say that the methods listed below will be equally effective against all three.

Every pond had at least some amount of sludge resting at the bottom. That sludge is a rotting mass of detritus, fish waste and any organic particulate matter that dropped into the pond. As it rots, it produced nutrients that are used by aquatic plants, microscopic algae and pond scum. Microscopic algae (green water) is part of the pond scum problem. Swift removal of the sludge and any pond algae you can grab is essential.

Aquatic plants are a natural and ideal as they compete with problem pond algae for nutrients. Floating varieties are especially useful as they prevent sunlight from reaching pond algae in the water column and on at the bottom. There are a few popular kinds available to take a trip to your local nursery and find what suits your tastes best.

A quick and effective method on ridding your pond of microscopic algae (green water) is simply hooking up a UV sterilizer to your water circulation. While it deals with the problem admirably, UV sterilizers are not a cheap item to purchase. The bigger the pond, the bigger the sterilizer needed.

Algaecide's are commonly available but i would advise against their use as they are a very toxic substance that wreaks havoc on the your pond. Algaecides are made from Copper Sulfate, a poison that will destroy the microfauna that exists in pond systems. While they are very effective, they are ultimately a short-term solution for pond algae. The root of the problem is nutrients, which algaecides do not address.

Barley straw sees widespread use in the pond industry as they can battle nuisance pond algae with better than average results. It is put into the pond where it releases natural chemicals that are harmful to most problematic pond algae, but not all. While they are not completely effective towards all forms of pond algae they are cheap enough to be viewed as a viable alternative. Use in conjunction with proper pond husbandry.