How to treat or remove pond algae
The growth of pond algae is a natural occurrence in freshwater bodies, but at some point you might need to initiate pond algae control measures to reduce the amount of algae. This can be achieved by using chemical, mechanical or more natural methods.
Chemical water treatment to remove pond algae
If you decide that a chemical solution is your best option, then you will need a high quality aquatic algaecide that controls the growth of both planktonic and filamentous pond algae species. These algae removers kill the algae by preventing photosynthesis from taking place. On the other hand, if you have too much duckweed (which can be confused with algae), you can use WaterClear, which is a type of pond algae control that has a minimal environmental impact. It works by reducing the surface tension of the water, causing the duckweed to sink and eventually killing it.
Mechanical pond algae control methods
If you have filamentous algae, you can avoid the use of chemicals by simply removing the algae by hand or using a net. If the algae grows on the walls of your pond you can scrub it off, but it will need to be followed with a chemical algae remover to actually kill the algae, otherwise it will grow back. You will then need to remove the dead algae and organic matter from your pond, so that it doesn’t accumulate on the bottom and form a sludge.
Natural pond algae control strategies
More natural and environmentally friendly water treatment strategies for controlling algae include solar aeration pumps. These pumps use the power of the sun to aerate the water column in your pond, which is a very effective long term solution for controlling pond algae. This method of control works well because it oxygenates the entire water column allowing biologicals that normally live in the top layer of water to move throughout the water column, competing with algae for living space.
Adding diatoms to your pond when you use a water treatment aerator is a great way to increase oxygen levels and they can successfully compete with the algae in the pond as well. Aerating your pond also moves bacteria from the surface layers to the deeper layers, helping to decompose organic matter and reducing the buildup of sludge.
For more information on pond algae control, call BioRemedy on 07 3889 8250 or complete our online enquiry form.