Pond Algae Treatment
Page Contents
What is algae?
Algae is usually present in bodies of water, such as lakes and ponds, as a floating green scum or blankets of filamentous weed. There are many different varieties but they occur for the same reasons.
Why is it a problem?
They all have the ability to cause harmful effects by creating a monoculture, such as; de-oxygenation of water killing aquatic life and reducing insect availability for fish feeding.
When does it grow?
Algae grows and thrives during the summer season when water temperatures are warmer than normal. On top of this algae can grow as a result of excess nutrients within the water which is often caused by organic debris such as fish waste, grass cuttings or phosphate run-off from fertilisers. These usually occur around July and August but can happen at any time when conditions are right.
Algae treatment methods
There are different methods that can be used when it comes to controlling algae whether that be a chemical solution or a natural one.
Controlling algae with specialised products
At ProGreen we offer an algae control product called Blanketweed Klear. This product not only has granules that help to deal with the filamentous algae that combine to form blanketweed, but it also comes with treatment tablets that release pathogenic bacteria to reduce the effects of extra phosphates in the water. The granules should be spread directly on to the blanketweed killing it immediately. Removal of the dead algae should be done after 24 hours. The treatment tablets should then be dispersed into the body of water to gain pond algae control into the future.
Natural treatment methods
When it comes to natural treatment methods for controlling aquatic algae there are a few steps that can be taken to help prevent the establishment of algae. To begin with, we would advise that all debris such as leaves and grass clippings are removed from the water's surface. This is an important step a this type of organic debris settles on the floor of the lake and breaks frown to release excess Nitrogen.
You can also try skimming the algae off the top of the water however this will not solve the problem completely and it is far less effective than if you were to use a product such as Blanketweed Klear.
When should you treat algae?
The best time to treat algae such as blanketweed is first thing in the morning. This is when the blanketweed is at its weakest and will be easiest to kill. Another thing to consider when it comes to treating algae is trying to make the conditions unideal. Algae thrives in agitated water so ensure that you switch off pumps or fountains when you are starting treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can algae treatment kill fish?
A. No, the algae treatment that we supply, Blanketweed Klear, will not harm fish and can be applied when they are still in the pond/body of water.
Q. What is the best treatment for pond algae?
A. We would suggest that Blanketweed Klear is used as this is the best treatment for pond algae such as blanketweed that we have to offer.
