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Posted on: 8 November 2022

Algae blooms can be a major problem in a backyard pond, especially since some types of blooms are toxic. Fortunately, you can reduce algae concerns greatly if you plan for it when designing your new pond prior to installation. 

1. Location Selection

Algae blooms require plenty of sunlight. One way to minimize algae problems in your new pond is to place it in a shady location. A good location for a pond receives filtered sunlight throughout the day. A corner shaded by trellises or a lattice works well. Locations with partial shade from trees and surrounding plants provide another good site but keep in mind that leaf debris can be a challenge in the fall. 

2. Pump and Filtration

Poorly circulated and filtered water is more likely to lead to algae growth. This is because algae require a high-nitrogen environment and filtering debris from the water will reduce the amount of available nitrogen. If you have fish, for example, you will need a stronger pump and filter system than if you had no fish, simply because fish produce waste that can lead to algae blooms if the algae are not filtered from the water. 

3. Movement Features

Another way to increase circulation is to add features to your pond design that keep the water moving. Waterfall features are popular and come in a variety of styles to fit nearly any size pond. A waterfall can also be added to an existing pond. Another option during your pond installation is fountains—from basic sprayers in the center of the pond to a variety of fountain features that use a statue as a major part of the design.

4. Biological Influences

The biological additions to your new pond can help decrease algae growth. Plants, for example, are a good way to shade the water and make use of excess nitrogen so it's not available for an algae bloom. A combination of floating plants, like lily pads and lotus, along with some pond margin plants that overhang and shade the water, can go a long way toward reducing algae growth. 

5. Debris Management

Dead leaves, insects, and other decaying material in a pond can provide a rich nutrient solution to fuel algae growth. Including skimmers and other debris collection devices can reduce debris and minimize the time you spend cleaning. You may also want to choose a shallower pond design if your water feature will be without fish or freeze concerns. Shallow ponds are easier to clean out so there are fewer debris problems. 

Contact a pond installation service for more help.