What Causes String Algae in Ponds and How to Get Rid of It

An interview with Matt Larose, Algae Expert at BioSafe Systems

The last thing you want overtaking your ponds is dreaded string algae. It’s unsightly and unwanted in the oasis you’ve worked so hard to create. The good news is with the right product and application you can say goodbye to this pesky green matter in no time.

We recently asked Matt Larose of BioSafe Systems to share his expertise. In this post we chat about what causes string algae in the first place and how BioSafe Systems’ GreenClean® Granular Algaecide can knock out string algae that's present in your pond in no time.

WWG: Hi Matt, How long have you been with BioSafe Systems?

Matt: My father and grandfather started BioSafe Systems together in 1998, as a kid, I helped with filling little 8-10 oz. sample bottles. Then in high school, I discovered my passion for sciences, specifically earth sciences such as biology. Now, I have worked at BioSafe Systems in various capacities for 11 years, and currently work with our retail aquatics, home, and garden division.

WWG: How often do you have people asking how to treat string algae? Can you share with our community what causes this algae in the first place?

Matt: We average between five and seven calls per week regarding string or general algae treatment. I explain that algae outbreaks tend to be a symptom of an underlying issue or imbalance in the pond. Algae are some of the most ancient organisms on earth and have been adapting and evolving for millions of years, all they really need to thrive is the proper environment—sunlight, nutrients, and the appropriate temperatures.

So, to effectively remove algae, you have to identify the root problem in the pond that creates a hospitable environment for algae to grow by checking the pH, oxygen levels, or nutrient load.

The GreenClean line works from all angles to balance aquatic ecosystems: by breaking down organic buildup with GreenClean® Liquid Bacteria (helping prevent algae in the first place) or knocking out algae on contact with GreenClean Granular Algaecide (for string algae already present).

WWG: So GreenClean Granular Algaecide can get rid of string algae that's already in a pond, how does it work? Is it easy to apply? And why does it do such a good job removing string algae?

Matt: GreenClean Granular Algaecide’s main mode of action is oxidation. When the granules begin to dissolve in water you can actually SEE the process at work. The dissolving granules release hydrogen peroxide that destroys algae by oxidizing algal cells on a microscopic level. Visually, this looks like a lot of bubbling and debris lifting to the surface. I typically make sure first-time users know beforehand that when treating a pond with the granular it might look just a little bit worse before it clears up completely. GreenClean Granular Algaecide is very easy to use, especially for the average sized backyard koi pond or water feature. You can use it to clear up specific areas or preventatively with spot-treatments, or you can use it curatively throughout the entire volume of water. Simply use one cup per 1,000 gallons of water in the pond and apply the granules directly onto the algae.

WWG: How quickly can someone expect the product to work after applying?

Matt: Instantly! That is one of the greatest features of GreenClean Granular Algaecide, you can see it go to work right in front of your eyes! Certain variables influence the number of applications needed, but the instant results assure pond owners that their money and effort are well spent.

WWG: We know your product is organic, can you expand on how BioSafe Systems goes about developing organic products and why?

Matt: My father spent a significant portion of his life working various jobs before he found his true calling, but the one thing all of those jobs had in common was their impact on the environment. In his younger years, he worked at a greenhouse that used toxic herbicides, and later he worked for a company that cleaned up specific areas impacted by the long-term use of toxic chemistries and chemicals that persist in the environment. After witnessing firsthand the time and resources required to clean up toxic and persistent chemicals, my father dedicated his time to developing solutions that do not have such lasting negative effects on the environment.

WWG: Thank you Matt for sharing your expertise with us. If you'd like to check out the GreenClean line you can do so right here at Webb's. We highly recommend their granular alagecide for getting rid of algae on waterfalls and in streams. As always if you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us. We love talking ponds, and our pond techs are here to help.