Most pond owners will be forced to deal with algae control at some point during the care of a pond. Most common algae that pond owners deal with are one of three common forms. The most common is Filamentous algae, made of long strands of algae cells joined end to end like strands of hairor string which is why it is often referred to as “string algae.” Chara is a bottom rooted, delicate “branched” algae that is often mistaken for other aquatic plants or weeds. Chara often has a strong, musky odor and rough texture, which help identify the algae. Planktonic algae or “pea soup algae” is caused by microscopic algae cells free floating in pond or lake water.
Treating ponds with benefiicial bacteria and adding aeration can instill a major benefit to the water quality. Herbicides and algaecides should be used sparingly and with caution so as to not inflict further problems like low oxygen levels or contamination with copper or chemicals that are added to weed killers.