Keeping Algae Under Control |
Keeping Algae Under Control
Algae grows best in the presence of excess nutrients and sunlight. In ponds, there are a few common factors that contribute to excessive algae growth. These include, an overpopulation of fish, excessive feeding, lack of beneficial bacteria, lack of aquatic plants, and filtration issues. Determining the source of your problems is the key to having crystal clear water all season long!
When troubleshooting a pond, the size of a pond is a good start point. Overpopulation of fish is the most common cause of algae in watergardens. Fish waste is a major cause of algae, especially if there is no beneficial bacteria present or proper filtration to break it down. Unfortunately, you may need to remove some fish at this point.
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| When adding fish to your water garden, remember that they will grow and reproduce. Be prepared to remove the young. 2 to 3 fish per 500 gallons of water is a good start. Fish are natural scavengers feeding off bugs, algae and other debris within the pond. Remember that feeding your fish is primarily for your enjoyment and is not usually necessary for the survival of the fish. Limit your feedings to 3 to 4 times per week, feeding only what your fish can eat in 2 to 3 minutes. Remove uneaten fish food. Feeding your fish less will actually result in your fish doing more of their own "housekeeping". |
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Tip: Higher quality fish foods contain better ingredients that can be digested more efficiently, meaning less fish waste. You get what you pay for when it comes to fish food. A Balanced Pond = Great Filtration + A Minimal Fish Load + Aquatic Plants (60% coverage) + The Defense PAC (Beneficial Bacteria)
Solving Algae Problems with Oxygen:
Adding oxygen helps to control algae and promote fish health. During the warmer months, aeration circulates the cool water at the bottom of your water garden. This prevents warm stagnant water from growing algae and mosquitoes.
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| Aeration also dissipates nitrogen and phosphates (the nutrients algae feed on), promotes good bacteria and removes waste. During the cooler months, aeration keeps water open from freezing in ambient temperatures (down to -40°F) by bringing warmer water to the pond's surface. By keeping the water open, toxic gases from underneath the ice will be able to escape preventing winter fish kills! |
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