Submerged plants might not be the prettiest pond plants available, and no one is likely to call anacharis beautiful, but these under-appreciated plants are the key to a gorgeous water garden with crystal-clear water.
Anacharis and other submerged pond plants are natural algae-busters. These plants have roots that are specially adapted for taking nutrients directly from the water. Without those excess nutrients, your algae problem will disappear — no chemicals needed. Really. Submerged plants are your best allies against green, scuzzy pond water. But this isn’t an over-night fix. Have some patience and give the plants a little while to grow. Soon you’ll see your green water problems fade into nothing.
Our favorite submerged plants for algae control are anacharis, hornwort, cabomba and parrot’s feather. We recommend approximately one bunch of submerged plants for every 1-2 feet of surface water. But remember that every pond is different. You may need more plants if your algae problem is severe, or less if your pond is partially shaded or heavily planted.
Submerged plants will solve algae problems, transforming green ponds into crystal clear water gardens. But, the best time to add these powerhouse plants is in the spring, before algae has a chance to take over. Add some submerged plants to your pond this spring, and you could be on your way to a clean, clear and beautiful water garden this summer.
Tags: algae, algae control, anacharis, cabomba, green water, hornwort, parrot's feather
Our pond is 50′ x 60′ x 4′ about 90% sun through the day. We have about 15 catfish 10 koi and 2 grass carp all are 18mos old and range in size form 12″ to 21″. Water color runs from brown to clear to green during the year rtght now its green. How much pond calrifier should I use and how much does it cost? Thanks
Hi Robert -
Thanks for your question. It looks like your pond holds a little less than 90,000 gallons (that’s a big pond, congratulations!). Perfectly clear water can be hard to achieve in a pond that size — you’re dealing with a large system with many sources of nutrients. Large ponds will also naturally cycle in the spring, passing through a stage of thick green water before clearing up a bit. This is completely normal. Still, there are a few things you can do to help reduce the algae in the water.
Barley extract is a natural water clarifier, and will definitely help reduce your algae load. However, you will need quite a bit for your pond. Our 16 oz size barley straw extract treats 12,000 gallons. You would need 8 containers of this to treat your entire pond.
Plants are another solution. Some plants — such as submerged oxygenating plants — are extremely good at absorbing extra nutrients from the water (thus reducing your algae load). A good rule of thumb is 1 bunch of submerged plants for every 1 or 2 square feet of surface area (your pond is about 3000 square feet, which makes this pretty hard to achieve). But, the plants will grow, so you could start with less. Also, any plant will help remove excess nutrients, so you can always combine the oxygenators with a range of other water plants.
For a pond as large as yours, the best results might be achieved through a blend of these options. The clarifier works faster, but will probably be most expensive. The plants take a little longer to have an effect, but most will return year after year, and will look wonderful in the process.
Best of luck, and enjoy your pond. It sounds wonderful.
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