Summer Lovin’ Tips and Tricks to Control Algae

Summer is finally here! Now its time to get outside to soak up the sun and be free to enjoy your water feature! While you are outside soakin’ up those rays, by the pond, keep these tips in mind, to keep you water feature looking pristine all summer long!

With summer comes beautiful, frolicking flower and plant blooms that bring sweet smells of summer, and keep us outside longer! Along with those beautiful aquatic blooms, comes algae, which is one bloom that is not so pleasant! Since you’re already outside, try a few things that will help maintain that algae bloom that isn’t so sweet.

Adding plants that provide shade to your pond will keep the sun from penetrating the water and in turn reduce algae growth. There are some aquatic plants that are perfect for this and are also beautiful! Water Lilies, Water Hyacinth, and Water Lettuce are all great for adding shade to your pond. With these three plants you get an added plus! Not only do they add shade to prevent algae growth, but they also add coverage for your fish to hide under, keeping them safe from dangerous and pesky predators! It’s a Win-Win!

Now, its understandable that you will want feed your fish a little more than normal since you will be outside and spending more quality time with them, but don’t do it! Or at least try, I know those little suckers can be irresistible. If you can manage to feed them less, they will produce less waste. If there is less waste in the pond, then the algae will have less to feed on. All you Koi lovers may feel a daunting weight on your shoulders as I tell you to feed your Koi less, but trust me, they will not starve! If they get hungry they will do you a favor and eat some of that algae that you are trying to get rid of! Another Win-Win!

Keeping up on a few maintenance items will improve your water clarity and prevent algae growth during these hot months as well. If you have not done so yet this year, switch out the bulb in your Ultra-Violet light! Those bulbs typically need to be replaced once per year. Once you get that fresh bulb installed, you will see a drastic difference! For those of you who are saying, “Ultra-Violet? In a pond!?” and you also have green water, please, please, please call us at The Pond Digger and we will help you step into the light! It works wonders!

Remember to keep an eye on your filtration media, rinse it clear of debris, as needed, keep any decomposing plants trimmed back, and most importantly keep adding beneficial bacteria! Keeping up on this maintenance will keep you and your eco-system happy and healthy

Now that I have given you plenty of tips and tricks that should keep those algae blooms down and keep those flower blooms up and smelling sweet, enjoy your summer, and stay outside longer!

For more information, contact The Pond Digger!
1-800-522-5043