That title is a tongue twister of sorts, but I can't begin to tell
you how important it is during the month of May. One of the biggest
myths in water gardening is that algae thrives only in hot weather.
Well let's add a new twist to "April Showers Bring May Flowers" and
include algae in the mix.
Chilly Conditions
Yes, algae loves this time of year, the time when it's just starting
to warm up outside, but the pond water is still a little chilly.
Why would a sun-loving green monster like algae like cold water?
Because it's arch-nemesis, beneficial bacteria, has a hard time
getting started in cooler water. Another major player in the
good fight against algae – plants – are
just trying to get started, but it's also a little too chilly
for them to do a lot to help battle algae.
What To Do
Meanwhile, algae is thriving and has the run of the pond. Even
your fishy friends are contributing a bit as their waste turns
into plant fertilizer, a.k.a. algae food. This is the time of
year when I often get frantic calls from homeowners asking me
what exactly they can do about this algae problem.
My answer? Talk to Mother Nature. It's important to keep in mind
that ponds are living, breathing ecosystems and they aren't always
going to be crystal clear. Algae is a part of Mother Nature's recipe.
It helps feed and shade fish in natural lakes, ponds, sand streams
and it's just a part of the circle of life. There is a low temperature
bacteria available on the market that can definitely help you out
in these cases, and I sometimes prescribe that to panicked pond
owners, but it's not a quick fix or a guarantee.
It's All About Nature
Pond owners who have been around the block a few times understand
the role of algae in the pond puzzle. They've come to grips that
it comes and it goes. "Patience is what will get you through
May" is a favorite phrase I hear from one of my longest
running pond owners. Some even comment that it makes them appreciate
the summer months even more.
Regardless of how you view algae, keep in mind that it's only
here to stay for a little bit. It won't be long until the bacteria
fires
up, the plants start to feed on those nutrients, and May algae
blooms are a thing of the past. Until then, let's just practice
our new mantra, "Pond Patience, Pond Patience, Pond Patience … Bring
on June!"
