Product that breaks downs leaves

[Big Lou]

Need a recommendation for a tab, etc. that breaks down old leafs and other debris. Hoping to make spring cleanup easier and quicker.

 

[Meyer Jordan]

Any product that is sold for this purpose is comprised mainly of various strains of heterotrophic bacteria. Some products work quite well, others don't, but, and this is a big BUT, because they are predominantly bacteria (with possibly some Fungi thrown in for luck), they will immediately place a big demand on the available Oxygen. Aeration is recommended when using any of these products. Another drawback that is not often considered is as the amount of debris decreases, the bacteria die off releasing nutrients back into the water column affecting water quality.
If a pond does not have a skimmer (every pond of any size should), it is much more effective overall to manually net the large debris out of the pond. Whatever remains should be easily decomposed by the pond's existing bacteria and fungi.
99.9% of the water treatment products sold today have adverse effects to some degree on the pond's water quality and/or its inhabitants that the manufacturer doesn't tell you. They don't have to.

 

[Big Lou]

Thank you Meyer for the insightful information. Since our pond does not have fish would it still be a bad idea to use such a product?

 

[Meyer Jordan]

Thank you Meyer for the insightful information. Since our pond does not have fish would it still be a bad idea to use such a product?

Won't really harm anything, but you may have a burst of algae growth as a collateral result. Actually, other than aesthetics, I see no reason to be overly concerned with the organic debris. It will only decompose and provide nutrients for the plants.