subject: Effective Treatments For Green Water [print this page] Nothing is painful than seeing your pond covered in thick, green water. Green water disappoints any owner who has done everything to beautify his or her ponds and lakes. Those who have spent lavishly to create crystal clear ponds will be caught off guard once the dazzling pond turns soupy green.
Most ponds stay clear during cold months, wherein you can almost see the bottom of the pond. During winter or cold months, algae growth is hampered due to the temperature. However, when the cold days end and the temperature starts to rise again, the pond temperature will also increase, encouraging microscopic algae from forming in the surface. The nutrients that have been accumulated during winter such as nitrates and phosphates lead to the growth of these opportunistic plants. Since algae can reproduce quickly, they can multiply out of control and bloom into dormant cells or cysts. Smaller ponds are most likely affected because they warm up faster than the larger ponds. Algae can appear overnight and even stay for months when left untreated.
Algae are good for ponds, but when it become abundant that it almost covered the entire pond, it can cause problems over time. These organisms grow so fast and utilize oxygen from water that can reduce the oxygen levels and kill fish. Heavy algae growth in the form of string algae greatly affects the irrigation.
Spring season is the favourite time for algae bloom. It's important you are armed with knowledge on how you can combat the green water from your ponds. Follow these simple techniques to keep your ponds from becoming dull and green.
Shading
Did you know that algae bloom due to too much sunlight, excess nutrients, and low oxygen? Yes, many experienced pond owners know that shading prevents the growth of algae. Installing a green house or pergola at the top can block off the heat. Placing floating or aquatic plants such as water lilies or lotus in the pond surface can be a great help. The plant's roots feed on organic waste and take away the nutrients from the algae.
This method is safe and eco-friendly because no chemical is involved in treating the water. Shading can be also made possible by adding natural vegetable dyes in the pond water; these dyes reduce the sunlight and an effective solution to algae problems. The dye tints the water into dark blue that reduces the amount of light that penetrates on the water.
Barley Straw
Barley straws are second natural and effective treatment for algae. The barley straw contains natural decomposing substances that slow down the growth of algae. The results can take several months depending on the breakdown of the straw.
Oxygenation
Adding aeration to your pond is one of the most effective methods in controlling algae.
As what has been noted previously, algae hate oxygenated and circulating water. Using an aerator such as fountains or pumps can circulate the water from the pond and prevent those pestering algae from forming in your valuable ponds.
Ultraviolet Clarifier
The ultraviolet clarifier is noted for its effectiveness in controlling green water. It uses the ultra violet technology in eradicating green water problems. A pond pump is required to operate the UVC unit, and its bulb should be changed every 12 months.
by: Lara Davidson
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
