Difference between revisions of "Control Pond Algae with Cutrine-Plus"

Latest revision as of 17:46, 3 December 2014

Control Pond Algae with Cutrine-Plus

This article will briefly touch on the pros and cons of owning a pond and the maintenance that comes with it. We will discuss controlling pond algae with Cutrine-Plus and digesting dead organic material with the use of beneficial bacteria. We will discuss the negative effects of over feeding your fish population, and what types of fish are most suitable for your pond and geographical location.

Owning a pre existing pond or creating your own pond from scratch can be a wonderful and exciting experience for friends and family. Depending on the type of lake or pond you have, will greatly influence the amount of upkeep and maintenance required to control the water clarity, unwanted algae growth and keeping your pond in a tip top condition. The types of fish you choose to stock your lake or pond with will also determine your ability to maintain a healthy aquatic balance.

There are three basic types of pond algae common to the US, planktonic, filamentous and chara/nitella. Most healthy ponds will have a certain amount of algae present, algae is natural to the success of an aquatic environment and Mother Nature’s Way of maintaining a balanced echo system.

Over feeding of fish is probably the most common mistake made by pond owners and is usually more common in smaller ponds that contain Koi fish. Over feeding will cause increased in nitrogen levels causing algae to grow out of control effecting the natural balance of your pond. Water runoff from farms, developments and municipalities can also increase phosphorous and nitrates levels in your lake or pond. This can cause planktonic, filamentous, chara/nitella and other aquatic plants to grow out of control.

Cutrine-Plus is a great product when used properly, it will effectively control algae. Cutrine-plus is a chelate copper or (copper triethanolamine chelate). Cutrine-Plus is often used with Cide-Kick II as a product enhancer. Cutrine-Plus chelated formula is a safer alternative for fish and stays in the water longer than copper sulfate (blue stone) maximizing the effectiveness of the product.

After treating the pond with Cutrine-Plus it is always a good idea to clean up the dead algae, sludge and scum in the bottom of the pond with a beneficial bacteria water clarifier and sludge digester. Bacteria will digest and eat away the slimy sludge at the bottom of your lake or pond converting organic matter into water and carbon dioxide. Good beneficial bacteria can be the key to a healthy clear pond giving the homeowner years of enjoyment.

What type of fish do I stock my pond with? Contact your local fish and hatchery office for a representative in your area. Natural fish are always the best choice in my opinion. They are relatively easy to take care of and require the least amount of maintenance. Bass, blue gill and catfish are always my first choice. There is always the option of raising Koi fish. Koi fish are typically found in a small back yard pond with a range of 1,000-20,000 gallons of water and typically require a more frequent maintenance program. Copper based products like the Cutrine-Plus are unhealthy for koi and should be avoided at all coast.

Other options for controlling algae in ponds with Koi and gold fish are Green Clean products. This is a product that was designed with Koi and gold fish in mind. It is a sodium based product that is copper free.

Again, I think it is important to reiterate the importance of using caution when applying any chemical such as Cutrine Plus or Green Clean, be sure to consult the MSDS and safety data sheets for directions. Always check with your local municipality before application of any algaecide, some states may require permits for the application of algaecide products into private, public lakes pond and streams. Check with your local authorities to be certain.

By: Brad Skierkowski