How to use it effectively

Where do the algae come from?

Only when the pond water turns green do we wonder at a loss where the algae are suddenly coming from. Because nobody consciously put them into the water. The answer is: you've always been there. Algae are contained in fine dust, so they can reach every new pond in no time. The question is therefore not why there are algae in the pond, but why they suddenly swim in so large quantities in it. Because only then do they become a problem.

Improved living conditions

Algae need phosphate to grow. Other pond plants do the same. The difference is that algae absorb and utilize this element faster. As soon as they get more sun or warmth, they start growing immediately. Other plants need a longer start-up before growth gets going.

For various reasons, the phosphate concentration in the pond can occasionally rise. For example, if there was fertilization nearby and the rain washes the phosphate into the pond. The algae that are already present in the pond but are not conspicuous are happy to accept it. This leads to an algal bloom.

Nutrient competition

One solution is to take a large part of the phosphate away from the algae. If, for example, other plants make generous use, less is left for the algae. These are suitable:

• Hornwort
• Duckweed
• Frog bite
• Pike herb

Duckweed or duckweed also help Hornwort against algae, but the pike herb with its purple flowers is a particularly attractive food competitor of the algae.

Rapid growth

The fact that the pike herb can compete with the algae is thanks to its rapid growth. Only in this way does the plant manage to withhold a considerable amount of phosphate from the equally fast algae through its own consumption.

The pike herb can also use its plant parts in the fight against algae. the Planting depth is only 10 to 40 cm, which is why it protrudes out of the water. This reduces the water surface on which algae can float.