Algae grows in our water features due to the availability of excess nutrients and sunlight. The breakdown of organic matter such as leaves, water plants, fish and foul debris, rain and irrigation runoff,  provide nutrients for water plants as well as algae.

Algae growth is a sign that a pond is healthy. A layer of hair algae on pond rock provide fish something to feed on, and water creatures a place to call home.  A completely sterile pond is not natural. 

At some point though, algae may begin to take away from the aesthetics of our pond.  Planktonic or pea green soup algae typically seen in the spring can cause problems with oxygen levels in a pond and threaten fish. Also, string-type algae may fill waterfalls and become tangled in plants.

One solution to prevent outbreaks of algae are the use of algaecides. They  are inexpensive and effective, but only temporarily 'fix' the problem.  Algaecides quickly kill algae, which then falls to the bottom of the pond and begin to decompose.  Decomposition of the algae releases nutrients, and  a new cycle of algae growth begins. At this point it's time to treat the problem with an algaecide again.  This cycle creates a dependence on algaecides.  Many algaecides are heavy metal based. Metals build-up in the fishes' tissues and are potentially deadly to your fish! Algaecides kill algae, but do NOT get rid of the source of excess nutrients or sludge buildup on the bottom of your pond.

Our philosophy is to use organic, natural, safe, ecologically responsible methods for the indirect reduction and control of algae.  A proper balance of plants, fish, rock, and bacteria would be used to keep your water clear.  Higher plants, like lilies and rushes, out-compete with algae for the uptake of excess nutrients. Fish help to fertilize the plants as well as feed on the natural algae growth on the sides of the pond. Rock and gravel provide surface for bacteria to live, as well as add to the aesthetics of the pond.

Bacteria and enzymes occur naturally in ponds, lakes and streams.  Their purpose is to break down organic matter, and oxidize nutrients.  Under natural conditions, bacteria levels build up to a level in equilibrium to the amount of nutrients available to consume.  The purpose of adding bacteria is to boost and speed up Mother Natures' ability to consume the excess nutrients, increase the aesthetics of our water features, and maintain the health of our ponds.

We proudly provide our clients with Hydro Clear - an all natural blend of friendly bacteria and enzyme strains which reduce organics and nutrients in the water and thereby out-compete with algae for those nutrients. 

Click Here for more information and pricing on Hydro Clear