String algae is unsightly and can cause pond owners much extra work. So, where does it come from and how can you control it? String algae is a plant that grows in long strings or hair-like filaments. It can get quite long and makes thick mats flowing over rocks. Because it is a plant, it requires certain things- sun, water, and nutrients. If one requirement is missing, the algae will not grow. That is the key to controlling string algae. In a pond situation, the only variable to control is the amount of nutrients floating around in your pond water. The nutrients feed string algae. Hot summer days algae to grow faster, also. Ways to Control String Algae1. Clean your pond! Remove the muck, dead leaves, and plant matter releasing nutrients as they break down. Remove the nutrients before the algae begin to grow.
2. Don’t over feed your fish- the extra food releases more nutrients. 3. Clean your filter pads and check your bio-falls for sunken leaves. For Minnesota ponds, it is helpful to watch when the tree blossoms drop in spring. We remember to remove autumn leaves but the flowers and tree seeds can leach nutrients just as quickly! Flower drop is usually around Mother’s Day in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and maple seeds drop a few weeks after that 4. Treat string algae outbreaks with these fish safe products:
If your pond is struggling with string algae issues, check out our Pond deep clean process or contact us to schedule a deep clean! Cleaning your pond can be done any time of the year!
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AuthorJeff Chudek has been building ponds and waterfalls professionally since 2005. As a kid, his favorite time of year was spring, because the spring thaw created so much mud and puddles, and all the trees and plants were waking up. He loves figuring out the best way to use something, and fixing things that are broken. He's good at coming up with ideas, and helping choose the best idea for you. Archives
April 2021
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