Nederlands
Deutsch
Algae in the pond: recognize, combat and prevent
Algae are a common problem in ponds and can make the water cloudy and disrupt plants and fish. Green water, or filamentous algae, is primarily caused by a combination of sunlight, heat, and excess nutrients in the water. Fortunately, there are effective ways to control and prevent algae.
Types of algae in the pond
Floating algae (green water)
Suspended algae float freely in the water, giving it a green, cloudy appearance. They often appear in spring and summer, when the water warms up and nutrients such as phosphate are high.
Thread algae
Filamentous algae form long, stringy threads that attach to plants, rocks, and the pond floor. They grow slowly but can cover a large part of the pond, making it difficult to keep the water clear.
Causes of algae growth
Algae grow when conditions in the pond are optimal:
- Excess nutrients: Phosphate and nitrate from food, organic waste and pollution.
- Lots of sunlight: Algae need light to grow.
- Warm water: Higher temperatures accelerate algae growth.
- Few oxygen-producing plants: Plants compete with algae for nutrients; without enough plants, algae have free rein.
Combating algae
There are several ways to effectively tackle algae:
- Phosphate removers reduce nutrients and help control both filamentous and suspended algae.
- Algae fighters are liquid or biological products that act directly on the algae.
- Mechanical removal: Thread algae can be removed manually or with a pond vacuum .
- Oxygenating plants and filter plants absorb nutrients and help prevent algae.
Prevent algae
Prevention is the best way to maintain a healthy pond:
- Provide sufficient oxygen-rich and bankside plants.
- Avoid overfeeding fish; excess food increases phosphate levels.
- Keep the water moving well with a pump or fountain to prevent stagnant water.
- Perform regular maintenance, such as removing leaves and organic debris.
The result
By controlling algae and taking preventative measures, the water stays clear and healthy. Your pond becomes a stable ecosystem where fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms can thrive.
