How to Prevent Algae Blooms in Your Pond

Warm water, longer days, and still water all create the perfect environment for algae blooms in your pond. One day, your water is crystal clear, and the next it's murky and green. If you're wondering how to keep your pond algae-free this summer, the key is being proactive.

From UV filtration to aquatic plants, these expert tips will help you keep algae under control all season.

Why is Algae Problematic?

Algae pop up in ponds with excess nutrients available from things like decaying plants and fish waste. When algae start to take over, they reduce oxygen levels and can block sunlight. Warm water holds less oxygen than cold water, making it easy for levels to drop quickly in the summer, causing harm to fish and reducing overall water quality

Use UV Filtration

One of the most effective tools for algae prevention is UV filtration. When algae cells are exposed to UV light as they pass through clarifiers, their cells are weakened, preventing growth, and can then be filtered out.

Adding a UV Pond Clarifier or a Pressurized UV Pond Filter to your pond in the spring or early summer is an effective way to combat algae. 

Add Filtering Aquatic Plants

Most submerged aquatic plants are excellent at filtering and adding oxygen to the water. They are a natural, attractive way to help balance the ecosystem and discourage algae by competing for the same resources.

• Anacharis

• Hornwort

• Cabomba

Floating and emergent plants can help provide some shade and keep the water cooler.

• Water lilies and lotuses (shade and surface coverage)

You can also use Pond Tint to help keep your pond cooler and help minimize the amount of sunlight that the algae can absorb. 

Remove Debris Quickly

Decaying leaves, uneaten food, and organic debris contribute to algae blooms by releasing excess nutrients into the water. When this debris falls to the bottom of your pond, it turns into sludge. Scooping debris from the pond's surface with a pond net before it can settle to the bottom can help prevent buildup. 

Sludge Remover contains beneficial bacteria that help to break down sludge on the bottom of your pond.

Avoid Overcrowding and Overfeeding Fish

Fish add life and intrigue to your pond, but can bring unique issues. A general rule of thumb when adding fish to your pond is allowing for 10 gallons of water per every inch of fish (estimate their adult size). Too many fish in a small space can cause health problems and water quality issues from the excess fish waste. Fish, especially koi, create a lot of debris that can fuel algae blooms. 

Overfeeding fish also causes issues. Uneaten food that sinks to the bottom turns into nutrients for algae. Filtration systems are essential to any pond, but are extra important if you have fish to help filter some of the waste and uneaten food.

Support a healthy ecosystem for your fish:

• Pressurized UV Pond Filter – combines multiple filter types for a well-rounded, powerful clean
• Barley Pond Clarifier – use for maintenance to help balance water quality

Add Aeration with Waterfalls, Spitters, or Fountains

Still, low-oxygen water enables algae to thrive. Keep things moving by adding water features to your pond. 

• Nozzle Kit – attaches to a pump for a customizable fountain

• Spitters – decorative and functional

• Waterfall Spillway – creates a natural look and powerful flow

Summer is a beautiful time to enjoy your pond, as the longer days of sunshine let you spend more time by your little oasis. Unfortunately, these conditions are also ideal for algae blooms. Stay ahead by minimizing sunlight, limiting nutrients, and keeping your water well-filtered and moving. With the right plants, UV pond clarifiers, and aeration tools, you can enjoy crystal clear pond water all summer long.