ALGAE CONTROL
The main problem with ponds is algae. Algae is a green organism that thrives in a high pH environment. Algae can make your pond look and smell horrible. It jams up filters and pumps. It is hard to remove and tough to control. Some forms of algae can remove precious elements from water that help fish survive.

Preventing algae is the best form of control. Below is a list of things you can do to prevent algae from growing:

· Shade your pond. Algae doesn't grow well in partial sunlight.  Also constantly circulate your pond.

· Keep your pond free of debris. Get out all leaves before they rot.

· Control the pH of your water. The best pH is around 7.5.

· Koi control string algae by eating it. If there is too much string algae, cut back on what you feed them. They will get hungry and snack on the algae. It is nutritious for koi. *Note: Koi will only eat string algae. They will not help with the "Pea Soup" algae. Koi will actually increase the amount of "Pea Soup" Algae.

If you already have algae there are several ways to get rid of it.  Below is a chart with two types of algae and the steps that must be taken to get rid of it, and prevent a future bloom.
 

String Algae  "Pea Soup" Algae
1) Scoop it out 1) Run it through a thick filter (such as a nylon)
2) Balance the pH of the pond (ph of 6-7) 2) Use a product such as Pond Clear(c) to clump up the algae so it will filter out
3) Circulate your water (with a pump, or waterfall) 3) Shade the area, and have a constant circulation of water
4) Shade pond 4) Keep area covered and free of debris.