How to get rid of moss in farm ponds
Filamentous algae, commonly called “moss”, or “pond moss”, is prevalent in many organically rich pond environments.
This moss covers the surface of the water and is aesthetically displeasing. Chemicals can kill algae, but the breakdown of the dead plants just adds more nutrients for the next generation of algae.
Because farm ponds typically contain runoff water from phosphorus and other chemicals, algae can be more prevalent and problematic there. Phosphorus is commonly used as fertilizer for farming. Unfortunately the downside is that it can go into nearby water sources and help to create algae blooms.
Filamentous algae pulled right out of a farm pond
Phosphorus is a weird chemical too… unlike other fertilizers such as nitrogen, phosphorus doesn’t soak into the ground as easily. Instead, phosphorus moves downhill across fields. This is why it has been such a big problem in some larger lakes, creating toxic algae blooms in areas such as Toledo, Ohio and Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio.
The physical removal of the floating algae is very time consuming and is short lasting. The algae soon reappear in just a few short days.
To control moss you must control or manipulate its resources.
Algae need 3 resources to thrive. Take away or manipulate their nutrients (sediment removal), environment (aeration), and sunlight (pond dye) and you can control this pesky plant.
If you need some help with your pond, contact us today! We’d love to help.