Everyone knows this scenario. Just last week the pond was alright, then suddenly the algae came overnight.
Why does this happen?
It’s really very simple. You only have to keep in mind 2 factors:
1. The stability of the water. The acidity (pH value) can be subject to enormous fluctuations during the day. To avert this we need to take a look at the carbonate hardness, which must be above 4 °dKH. This way the pH value (acid value) stabilizes and lies between 7.5 and 8.3. If the KH is lower than 4 °dKH we are talking about an unstable milieu, which leads to strong pH value fluctuations over the course of the day. This doesn’t only weaken the microorganisms but the fish's mucous membrane too, and it makes them susceptible to diseases and parasites. So please take note of the following: The KH stabilizes the pH level. A too high KH doesn’t signify a high, but only a very stable pH level!
2. The nutrient content in the water. Here the focus is on the phosphate value (PO4) which represents the nutrient basis for many algae. Through strong pollen flight, leaves, blossoms and decaying plants, large amounts of phosphate enter the pond water cycle. But fertilisers from the garden, washed in during the rain, are often also the cause. Within a short period the floating and thread algae are able to completely absorb the nutrients. This is how the free phosphate can be undetectable in the water when the algae blooms are very severe. The aim should be to keep the phosphate level under 0.02 mg/l.
What can you do?
1. Ensure adequate stability of the water. Test for carbonate hardness (KH) every 2-3 weeks or after each heavy rainfall. If it’s under 4 °dKH, minerals ( JBL StabiloPond KH ) must be added to the pond.
2. Constantly bind the nutrients with a phosphate remover ( JBL PhosEX Pond Filter ). With every litre of water running through the filter excess nutrients get bound and the algae will be “taken away”. If you don’t have a filter, use a liquid phosphate binder ( JBL PhosExPond Direct ). A dosing is to be done every 7-14 days because it only has an intermittent limited effect.)
With only 2 steps you will be able to keep the pond in looking great the whole season. The use of a UVC water clarifier can help as an additional preventive measure to make the application of anti-algae agents redundant.
Without you noticing we have explained you the 1-2-3 algae-free concept. With this you will achieve a perfect pond, sustainably without the use of an anti-algae treatment.
