It is fair to say that for most , blanketweed or string algae is one of the nightmares associated with owning a pond. However, with the correct protocol, it can be kept under control.

So What is Blanketweed?

Quite simply, it is a form of algae, more accurately filamentous algae, and can appear in many different strains, some becoming resistant to certain treatments over time. It is also known as String Algae. It has no roots, stems or leaves, but can attach itself to pond walls. Whilst your fish may enjoy grazing on it, blanketweed can cause problems. Apart from deoxygenating the water, it looks unsightly and it is advisable to remove the problem as early as possible.

There are many “mosses” that can be confused with blanketweed or string algae strains, but these can be identified easily as they have stems, or leaves. Examples are fairy moss and sphagnum moss. These cannot be treated with off the shelf treatments.

How do I control Blanketweed Growth? 

Blanketweed favours warmer water and tends to appear strongly coming into spring as the daylight hours get longer and there is more sun. It thrives in the sun, so siting your pond where there is shade will help reduce growth. Detritus, such as waste, leaves etc, will also contribute to the growth, so keeping your pond clean is essential. It will even grow during the colder months, especially if the sun is shining! A UV clarifier will not kill blanketweed, they are designed to clump algae particles together.

The best course of action is to treat your pond with a safe treatment such as Aqua Source Blanketweed Resolve, BEFORE the blanketweed starts growing. A monthly maintenance dose will keep it at bay thereafter. Blanketweed Resolve does not contain any HSE registered chemicals, unlike many other brands, and is completely safe for all wildlife and plants. It also reduces phosphates, which is a major contributory factor to blanketweed growth.

Do not be tempted to change large volumes of water, this is only a short term solution, best course of action is to address the issue. Many people will remove strands of blanketweed with a stick, which is unadvisable as this in turn releases thousands of spores back into the pond.

So, the Golden Rule is to catch it early! Do this and you can enjoy your pond and fish without the worry of unsightly blanketweed.

Please visit our store stockist locator page to purchase some of our Aqua Source Resolve blanketweed control