What is Algae and How Can You Avoid It?

Algae is one of the most common—and frustrating—issues pond and water feature owners face. But what exactly is algae? Why does it grow in your pond? And what can you do to prevent it without harming your fish, plants, or pets?

What Is Algae?

Algae is a broad term for a diverse group of aquatic organisms that thrive in water environments. While they are similar to plants, algae differ in that they don’t have roots, stems, or leaves. They consist of single or multicellular organisms that can appear as:

• Floating green particles (often called pond scum)

• Long filamentous strands

• Large mats or blooms that resemble pea soup

Algae can be found in freshwater and saltwater environments, and it tends to flourish when conditions are just right—especially in warm, nutrient-rich water with ample sunlight.

What Causes Algae Blooms?

Algae growth is primarily driven by nutrient pollution. When excess nitrogen or phosphorus enters your pond—often from lawn fertilizer, decaying leaves, runoff, or animal waste—it feeds the algae, allowing it to spread rapidly. This process is known as eutrophication.

Too much algae can lead to:

• Oxygen depletion in the water

• Fish kills

• Foul odors

• Cloudy or unsightly water

How to Prevent Algae Naturally

Controlling algae starts with prevention. Here’s how you can create a healthier pond environment:

• Minimize nutrient runoff: Avoid over-fertilizing nearby lawns and remove organic debris regularly.

• Promote aeration: Use aerators or fountains to increase oxygen levels and reduce stagnant water.

• Maintain healthy bacteria: A balanced pond ecosystem includes beneficial bacteria that consume excess nutrients before unwanted growth can occur.

All-Natural Treatments

Healthy Ponds^® has all-natural treatments that effectively reduce mild organic green matter and moderate to severe organic green matter. Simply calculate your pond size and determine what treatment is right for you. Our all-natural products release healthy beneficial bacteria into your pond and are safe for fish, plants, birds, pets and people.

Note: If your pond has fish and already suffers from poor oxygen levels, it’s best to consult a pond expert before treatment. Sudden die-offs of algae in low-oxygen ponds can lead to localized fish deaths.

Severe Algae Control

Warm weather, exposure to excessive sunlight and organic matter are all common reasons for algae growth. Plants or trees can shade ponds and reduce algae growth. It’s also important to remove dead matter and clean filters regularly. However, if you find yourself with reoccurring growth, there are treatments you can apply.

In addition to Healthy Ponds all-natural products, we also carry a line of algaecides and herbicides for severe algae.  It’s important to not confuse our chemicals with our all-natural products. Healthy Ponds all-natural products are not classified as Algaecides.

Our pond chemicals are carefully selected and are most compatible with our all-natural products. They effectively kill algae and aquatic weeds. To determine which product is best for your algae control, contact customer service at 877-948-0303 or email us at support@bioverse.com.