How to Remove Green Pond Algae
Algae, which are photosynthetic organisms, commonly appear in ponds, especially small ponds. There are more than 7,000 varieties of green algae, according to the University of California's Museum of Paleontology. Most varieties found in ponds are harmless, although it can make the body of water look unsightly and could be a sign of pollution. Algae can benefit a pond by absorbing animal waste, providing food and providing oxygen. However, some pond owners prefer to get rid of green algae or limit its growth. There are several ways to accomplish this. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Hand trowel
- Pool skimmer
- Pool vacuum
- Barley straw
- Mesh bag
- Snails
- Ultraviolet water clarifier
Instructions
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Run a hand trowel blade gently over rocks and between plant formations in the pond to loosen algae.
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Use a pool skimmer or fine-mesh net to scoop up loose algae. Dump the algae in the trash or use it in a compost pile.
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Use a pool vacuum to suck up algae that remains on the sides or bottom of the pond. Exercise caution so you don't suck up fish or other pond animals.
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Purchase barley straw from a garden center. Use 0.025 lbs. of barley straw per square yard of the pond's surface area. Tie the barley straw in a mesh bag and place it in the pond water.
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Add snails to your pond to eat the green algae. Snails are available for purchase at pet stores and some garden centers. Remember that large fish may eat the snails.
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Install an ultraviolet water clarifier, available at garden centers, in your pond. The equipment exposes the pond water to ultraviolet light, which kills single-celled algae that can gather into a bloom.
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Tips & Warnings
Floating plants, such as lily or lotus plants, help block out the sunlight that algae requires to grow.
Install your pond in shade or plant a nearby shade tree to block sunlight from hitting the water and encouraging algae growth.
Never look into an ultraviolet water clarifier's light. It is harmful to the human eye.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
