How to Keep Algae Out of a Turtle Pond

Algae eat the nitrates that the waste from your turtles create. This turns the water green, which is unattractive to look at. It is also unhealthy for the turtles, and anything else that you have in the pond. Since there is no way to stop the turtles from creating waste, you have to find a way to keep the algae from forming. The only way to do this, is to put plants in the pond. The plants use the nitrates to live, and this keeps algae from forming.

Things You'll Need

  • Large bucket or baby pool
  • Scrub brush
  • Sponge
  • Aquatic plants
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scoop the turtles out of the pond -- or pick them up -- depending on their size. Place them in a large bucket or baby pool.

    • 2

      Drain the pond and clean the sides by scrubbing them with a brush. Wipe the sides down.

    • 3

      Install large plants in the mud at the bottom of your pond. Go the the aquatic section of your local nursery and buy submerged plants, such as pond lillies and cattails.

    • 4

      Refill the pond with water and replace the turtles.

    • 5

      Add snails, minnows and tadpoles to the pond, to help to remove algae.