Solving Your Pond Algae Problem

One of the most popular outdoor features is a water garden. One of the worst headaches is pond algae problems. 
One of the most important ways to solve any problem is to define it properly. Start with thinking how your pond naturally exists.  You don’t have an algae problem. Rather your pond has a balance problem.
Here’s what keeps your pond’s ecosystem in balance:
Minimal organic load. In short, keep out plant related debris typically that algae flourished from.
·         Put in the right plants that use the right nutrients.  In essence, starve your algae from growing.
·         Right size your fish population with your pond size.  Too many fish produce too much organic waste.
·         Minimize the amount of direct sunlight on the surface of your pond.  Here you need to balance the amount of sunlight your plants need.   Sunlight stimulates algae growth. Hence, it’s own balancing act.
·         You probably guessed that the #1 cause of pond algae is poor planning.  Here are some top planning tips to minimize future algae issues.
·         Locate your pond so it does not receive the runoff from rain – a major contributor of excess organic material into your pond system.
·         In order to avoid direct sunlight it’s tempting to place your pond near larger shade trees. Unfortunately, certain types of trees are major debris droppers.
Newer ponds take longer to establish its own biological balance. Early on emphasize establishing more of the right  plants (starving algae) than fish (with waste and food feed algae).  You can always add more fish later when it’s better established.
Research the right kind of mechanical filter system that is right for you.  A skimmer for example will enable your pond to catch the surface material that will contribute to algae before it settles to the floor of your pond.
Get the right size pump that will recirculate through your filtration system your entire pond water volume within an hour.  Use this as a guide based on the size of your fish and number of plants.
Design the right depth and dimensions of your pond.  Many new pond owners skip the step of digging a deep zone for example.  This is key to establishing good water quality for healthy fish.

Learn more  how to prevent or solve your pond algae problems with this outstanding featured resource article.

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