Controlling Algae Naturally in Your Pond
By Clifford Woods
Chemical methods are fine if you there are no living creatures or plants in your pond because algaecides and chemicals will kill any and all life in the water. Normallly chemicals would be used in a swimming pool or perhaps outdoor fountains, any water feature that does not have plants and or fish in them.
The natural way works with Mother Nature, not against her. You could use plants and fish, or good bacteria that would create and maintain a healthy well balanced ecosystem.
Algae itself is a plant, it needs nutrients and light to grow so when you add plants to your pond they directly compete for the nutrients available. Add enough plants and you naturally minimize the nutrients available to the algae.
Over feeding your fish: Fish food that is not digested by the fish is the main pollutant in many ponds. Fish eat many things in the pond and that includes algae. Too much food for the fish increases waste and provides nutrients that feed the algae. When the algae goes on an over population bloom reduce or eliminate feeding until it is under control.
Reduce sunlight penetration: Cover at least half of the surface area of your pond with plants. Water that is not covered is much more difficult to keep in balance than ponds filled with beneficial plants.
Add bacteria: healthy colonies of bacteria found in Pond Magician are a crucial part in ensuring a naturally balanced pond. When cooler water temperatures are present add more and during the warmer months add less.
Keep the water moving: pulling water from one end of the pond and then filtering it before it returns at the opposite end will greatly improve water quality. Oxygen is added to the water as it is circulated.
Create a run off or add a drain tile: Water run off from lawns and surrounding gardens can overload the pond with nutrients and that is not good for the life in your pond.
Manually take out the dead and decaying plants and their leaves: Decaying leaves and or plant debris will also create excess nutrients in your pond. Skimmer are by far the most efficient and easiest way to keep your pond free of debris.
Water change: A partial water change (10-30%) every month or month and half may also help reduce excess nutrients in some situations.
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Clifford Woods is the CEO of Organic Environmental Technology.
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