How to Treat Algae in a Small Pond

Algae are a common, and nearly unavoidable, issue when dealing with an outdoor pond. Because of the constant exposure to sunlight and rainwater, which can often carry down nutrients, ponds tend to accumulate lots of the unattractive algae. Several chemicals, called algaecides, are designed to eliminate algal blooms. However, there's a much more natural, safer approach to clearing algae from a small pond and keeping it under control.

Things You'll Need

  • Water lilies
  • Hose
  • Dechlorinator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Thrust the hose under the water several times until you've successfully started a siphon.

    • 2

      Drain about 1/3 of the water from the pond.

    • 3

      Refill the pond, making sure that the fresh water is about the same temperature as the water already in the pond.

    • 4

      Cover about 2/3 of the surface area of the pond with water lilies. This will block sunlight and absorb nutrients that the algae may otherwise use. You can use several other types of floating plants, including duckweed and water hyacinth. In fact, you may even consider placing all of the plants in the pond simultaneously, giving you an attractive variety.