String algae. If you can't beat them...

[BigDan]

I always hear complaints about string algae and how unsightly they are. Well, where you see problem, I see opportunity.

I once read that if you remove all string algae, they will keep on showing in your pond. But if you confine them to a part of it, that´s the only place where they will grow...

With that in mind, one day I decided not to remove string algae, but to use them as  substratum to grow... Azolla

It's easy:
Pick some string algae and place them where you want to grow the Azolla


Then "plant" the Azolla


Sit back and watch the algae and Azolla grow...


and grow...


and grow...


and grow...


And, suddenly, the wall is covered, and other plants start to grow... (last year's picture)


And that's the only place where you'll find string algae in my pond...

[Jonna]

Amazing!  That looks wonderful and natural. 

[Kittyzee]

I LOVE that idea!!  Next spring, I'm gonna get some azolla and try that on some rocks--hopefully they will grow and look like yours!   

[miguynmkoi]

You found the solution!  Very good idea.  I like how you designed that portion of your pond.

I do have some string algae in pots where I grow azolla for my koi and turtle.  Maybe the algae makes them grow better.  It's nice to see something positive for such a hated pond pest.

[tugo]

Daniel, although I did not have any string algae in my 3 years of ponding, it is a great idea and also very decorative. Thanks

[whiskyb]

I love it. Now I just need some string algae!

[greenthumbnails]

Do you think this will work with duckweed too?

[Kat]

What a clever idea & it looks cool 

[PondmaninAL]

Ch ch ch Chia.

[Mikey]

Very cool.  Azolla has been my enemy in the past.  Perhaps I can make it work for me.....

[moondivatx]

Dan...this intrigues me.  I do have a question...this area what function does it serve for your pond?  Water does not appear to be flowing through it.  Beautiful, I look forward to your reply.

Deborah
Shawnee, OK, USA

[Jonna]

Dan is in Argentina and may not check here often.  I think that he has a series of concrete ponds that flow from one to the other.  You can see the water coming in at the top left of the tank and I believe it flows over that wall he planted into another tank.  They are entering winter now, not a lot of ponding going on.  He has been a great source for water lilies here in Mexico, sending starts to lots of ponders across the country through a Spanish pond forum.  Even I have his Daubeyana mini lotus and a Blue Star that he sent another ponder here in Merida. 

[trish]

Wow, this is so cool!  I always have problems keeping Azolla or duckweed in my pond because it goes into the skimmer, but I do have some string algae on the waterfall that I can try this on.  Neat idea and thanks.