Info & Care Sheets

• Managing Algae in Your Pond

  Helen Nash writes in her book, The Pond Doctor, “The most effective way to achieve an algae-free pond is by establishing what is commonly called ‘eco-balance,’ planting the appropriate number of plants necessary to use the water’s nutrients to the exclusion of the lower algae life-forms.” Since algae needs sunlight, carbon dioxide and dissolved minerals to exist, anything that deprives algae of these ingredients will help minimize algae growth.

  Now that we are coming into the longer, hotter days of summer, managing algae does not need to be difficult if you keep these suggestions in mind:

  It is recommended that 60% of the pond surface be covered with pond plants.  Pond plants are beneficial in reducing the amount of sunlight that penetrates your pond.  In addition, pond plants help filter and take up nutrients that algae feed on, thereby starving the algae.  Some suggestions for pond plants to help you accomplish this are: Water Lilies, Water Hyacinth, Water Lettuce, Parrot Feather, Vallisneria and Anachris.

  When you need to fertilize your water plants such as Water Lilies, use fertilizer that comes in a tablet form.  Fertilizer tablets are inserted into the soil of the plant so you fertilize the plant, not your water. At Linder’s we carry several varieties of fertilizer in a tablet/pellet form.

  Utilize the amazing power of natural Barley Straw.  Barley Straw is all natural and inhibits the growth of algae.  Using Barley Straw in your pond right from the beginning and continuing with its use can really help cut down on algae blooms.  Linder’s carries Barley Straw in a variety of forms such as: Barley Straw Bales, Barley Straw Pellets, and enzymatic (liquid) version.

  If you have fish, feed the fish only what they can consume in 5 minutes.  Over-feeding your fish not only clouds the water, but any uneaten food is utilized by algae like fertilizer.

  Continue to use your beneficial bacteria on a regular basis.  This will help break down fish waste, uneaten fish food and plant debris which can contribute to algae.

  If necessary, there are chemical methods of reducing algae growth in ponds.  Chemicals can be targeted at specific types of algae forming in the pond.  Some are more effective at reducing algae covering the rocks in your pond, others are better at cleaning up green water.  We carry a wide range of pond products to assist you in keeping your pond clear and healthy. 

  Stop by and see us at Linder’s on Larpenteur Ave in St. Paul.

   

  Posted on June 10, 2012

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