How to Get Rid of an Algae Bloom

Algaecides are the only way to destroy an algae bloom.

Algae blooms are free-flowing algae that turn your pond water green. Unlike other forms, like string algae, algae blooms are difficult to simply remove from ponds. To completely get rid of an algae bloom, you will need to use an algaecide. Pond supply stores have a wide range of algaecides for use in farm ponds and koi ponds, but use caution when selecting an algaecide for your pond -- some are extremely toxic to fish and plant life.

Things You'll Need

• Pool skimmer
• Plastic bag
• Bucket
• Large tub
• Net
• Algaecide
• Pond dye
• Trees

Instructions

1. Use a pool skimmer to slowly remove as much of the algae as you can. Work very slowly to prevent the algae from moving around, so it will be easier to catch it in the skimmer's net. Scoop the algae into a plastic bag and discard it.

2. Wait for the algae to settle. Use a bucket to scoop some of the water from the pond into a large plastic tub to make a holding tank. Use a net to carefully catch any fish you keep in the pond and transplant them into the holding tank. If you do not keep fish in your pond, skip this step.

3. Pour algaecide into the pond. If you do keep fish in the pond, use an algaecide that does not have copper in it, as this is toxic to most fish and will kill any fish that you put back into the pond. If you don't keep fish, use any algaecide you like. Read the instructions on the packaging to find out how much to use based on the size of your pond.

4. Wait until it is safe to place the fish back into the pond. Carefully use the net you used earlier to scoop the fish, one at a time, from the holding tank and back into the pond.

5. Add a pond dye to your pond or plant trees around the perimeter. Pond dyes prevent photosynthesis from occurring in the pond, which will prevent further algae blooms. Planting trees around the perimeter of the pond will provide shade, which will also prevent algae blooms from forming. Do not use pond dyes if you have other plants growing in the pond. Follow the instructions on the bottle for information on amounts to use and when to use the dye.

Tips & Warnings

• Planting trees around the edge of the pond will also help prevent erosion, an added benefit.

References

• Cornell University Extension: Farm Pond Maintenance Routines
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources: Farm Ponds
• Diane's Zoo: Pond Maintenance
• Pond Solutions: How Do I Get Rid of the Algae in My Pond?