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Pond Algae
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 A
small amount of algae
can’t harm your pond; in fact it has some beneficial qualities.
But if you look into your pond and can’t see your fish, chances
are you have a very unhealthy layer of pond algae and pond scum that
needs to be taken care of ASAP! Pond algae can not only turn your water
green, but it also constricts the amount of oxygen your plant and animal
life are receiving.
The easiest way to avoid pond algae can be implemented when you build
your pond. Since new ponds are more likely to grow algae, make sure
to include a good pond filter and pump when building your pond. The
pump will keep the water moving while the filter will collect leaves
and other debris that can cause algae to grow. Other items that can
help discourage algae growth include a pond skimmer or a pond rake
Having a proper balance of plants and fish is another important factor.
Fifty to seventy percent of the surface of your pond should be covered
with plants. This will block the sunlight from reaching the bottom of
you pond, and sunlight is what algae feeds off of. Don’t forget,
in the spring your pond may have a green film as your plants will need
time to re-grow from the cold winter months. But the discoloration should
go away as your plants develop.
Submerged plants will also help deter algae growth as they help balance
the nutrients in your pond. Fish create bacteria and algae is more likely
to grow in bacteria filled environments, in fact algae feeds off or
fish excrement, so don’t have more fish then your pond can hold
and don’t overfeed your fish. It is generally recommended that
for every one inch of fish you will need ten gallons of water.
If all else fails you can try using a UV sterilizer or a chemical treatment
which will get rid of algae. If you go the chemical treatment route,
make sure to check that the chemical is plant and fish safe or you could
wind up with a pond that is algae free but full of dead fish!
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