Cleaning plants - Knowledgebase Question

Fort Oglethorpe, GA
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Question by Link081787
June 9, 2009
Is there and/or do you sell any types of either underwater or floating plants that clean the water? I want to make my unused pool into a place where my duck can swin without all the chlorine, but the water is really nasty. and if it looks nice thats even better.


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Answer from NGA
June 9, 2009
Pond plants will help control algae. Plant coverage should be 50% - 70% of the surface. Add a variety to compete with algae for the nutrients. Water lilies will shade the surface of the pond. Submerged plants (Anacharis) and floating plants (Water Lettuce, Water Hyacinth) absorb nutrients directly from the water with their roots. Or, you can add barley straw, which is sold in bundles. You keep the bundles submerged, but not allow them to sink to the bottom. A filter will help circulate the water, which will also help keep algae from growing. It will take a while to strike a balance, but eventually you can control the algae without chemicals and your duck will have a great place to swim.

Most pond plants are available in nurseries and many are available through catalogs and online sources.

Best wishes with your project!

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