What Naturally Gets Rid of Algae?

Algae, that green slime that can take over your pond, aquarium, or even your swimming pool, is a common nuisance. While chemical treatments are readily available, many people prefer to find natural solutions to control algae growth. Fortunately, nature itself offers a variety of ways to combat this pervasive aquatic plant. This article will explore the most effective natural methods for getting rid of algae.

Understanding Why Algae Grows

Before we dive into the solutions, it's important to understand why algae thrives. Algae, like any plant, needs sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow. The primary nutrients that fuel excessive algae blooms are typically:

Nitrogen: Often comes from fertilizers, pet waste, and decaying organic matter.
Phosphorus: Commonly found in fertilizers, detergents, and some soil components.

When these nutrients are in abundance, and combined with adequate sunlight and water, algae can rapidly multiply, leading to unsightly and sometimes unhealthy conditions.

Natural Algae Control Methods

The key to naturally getting rid of algae is to disrupt its growth cycle by reducing nutrient levels, blocking sunlight, or introducing beneficial organisms.

1. Introducing Beneficial Aquatic Plants

One of the most effective natural methods is to introduce a healthy population of aquatic plants. These plants compete with algae for the same nutrients, effectively starving them. They also provide shade, reducing the sunlight available for algae to photosynthesize.

Types of Beneficial Aquatic Plants:

Submerged plants: These grow entirely underwater and are excellent nutrient absorbers. Examples include Anacharis (Elodea), Hornwort, and Vallisneria.
Floating plants: These cover the water's surface, blocking sunlight. Examples include Water Lilies, Duckweed (use with caution, as it can also spread rapidly), and Water Hyacinths (check local regulations, as they can be invasive).
Marginal plants: These grow in shallow water around the edges and help filter nutrients from runoff. Examples include Iris, Cattails, and Rushes.

How it works: The roots of these plants absorb nitrates and phosphates from the water. The leaves of floating plants shade the water column, preventing algae from getting enough light. Aim for a good balance, with plants covering about 60-70% of the water surface.

2. Barley Straw

Barley straw is a time-tested, natural algaecide. When barley straw decomposes in water, it releases compounds that inhibit algae growth. It doesn't kill existing algae but prevents new blooms from forming.

How to Use Barley Straw:

Purchase bales of barley straw.
Place the straw in a mesh bag or netting and submerge it in the pond or water feature.
It takes about 4-6 weeks for the barley straw to start working, so it's best to add it proactively in early spring.
Replace the straw every 6-12 months, as its effectiveness diminishes over time.

Important Note: Ensure you are using barley straw, not barley grain, as the grain can decompose too quickly and contribute to nutrient buildup.

3. Improving Water Circulation and Aeration

Algae thrives in stagnant water. Improving water circulation and oxygen levels can make the environment less hospitable for algae and more beneficial for desirable aquatic life.

Methods for Circulation and Aeration:

Water Pumps and Fountains: These actively move water, preventing stagnation and increasing oxygen levels.
Aerators: Specifically designed to introduce oxygen into the water.
Beneficial Bacteria: Introduce natural bacteria cultures that consume organic waste and excess nutrients, reducing the food source for algae.

Why it helps: Increased oxygen discourages anaerobic bacteria, which can contribute to foul odors and nutrient release. Circulation helps distribute nutrients more evenly, making them less concentrated in areas where algae can bloom aggressively. It also helps distribute beneficial bacteria.

4. Manual Removal and Maintenance

Sometimes, the simplest methods are the most effective, especially for immediate relief.

Techniques for Manual Removal:

Skimming: Use a fine-mesh net or skimmer to remove floating algae mats and debris from the water surface.
Brushing: For surfaces like pool walls or aquarium glass, use a soft brush to dislodge algae.
Vacuuming: In ponds and aquariums, a pond vacuum can remove algae and accumulated sludge from the bottom.

The benefit: Physically removing algae and decaying organic matter reduces the nutrient load in the water, slowing down future growth.

5. Natural Shade

Just as aquatic plants provide shade, so can other natural elements.

Trees and Shrubs: Planting trees and shrubs strategically around the edge of a pond or water feature can provide natural shade, reducing sunlight penetration.
Shade Cloth: For temporary or more controlled shading, consider using shade cloth over a portion of the water.

Key takeaway: Algae needs sunlight to grow. By limiting its access to direct sun, you naturally curb its proliferation.

6. Creating a Balanced Ecosystem

For aquariums and ponds, a balanced ecosystem is crucial. This involves more than just plants.

Elements of a Balanced Ecosystem:

Appropriate Stocking Levels: In aquariums, avoid overstocking with fish, as their waste is a significant source of nutrients.
Natural Predators: In ponds, consider introducing small, native fish species that may eat algae or algae-eating invertebrates like snails.
Regular Water Changes: For aquariums, regular partial water changes help remove excess nutrients.

The principle: Nature often self-regulates. By creating an environment that supports healthy biodiversity, you encourage natural checks and balances that keep algae in check.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take for barley straw to work?

It typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the decomposition process to begin releasing the inhibitory compounds from barley straw. For best results, it's recommended to add barley straw in early spring before algae blooms become noticeable.

Why are my aquatic plants not growing well, and algae is taking over?

This often indicates an imbalance in nutrients. If there are too many nutrients (especially nitrogen and phosphorus) in the water, algae will outcompete the aquatic plants. Ensure you are not overfeeding fish, that there isn't excessive runoff from fertilized areas, and consider adding a natural pond conditioner to help break down organic matter.

Can I use beneficial bacteria in my swimming pool to get rid of algae naturally?

While beneficial bacteria are excellent for ponds and natural pools, they are generally not as effective in chlorinated swimming pools. The chlorine in swimming pools kills the beneficial bacteria, rendering them inactive. For swimming pools, natural methods like increased filtration, manual removal, and adequate water balance are more appropriate.

What is the best way to start naturally controlling algae in a new pond?

The best approach for a new pond is to establish a healthy population of aquatic plants from the beginning. Introduce a variety of submerged, floating, and marginal plants to create competition for nutrients and provide shade. Also, consider adding barley straw in early spring to prevent initial blooms and ensure good water circulation.

How can I prevent algae from growing on my aquarium glass naturally?

For aquarium glass, regular manual cleaning with an algae scraper or magnetic cleaner is the most effective natural method. You can also try introducing algae-eating snails like Nerite snails or Siamese Algae Eaters (for larger tanks). Reducing the amount of light the aquarium receives and avoiding overfeeding fish will also help.