Red Algae

[TeamElls]

I have a pond that is all rock, no fish, no plants right now. We are in Colorado and have had this pond for 11 years now, this year we have developed a red algae that we can’t get rid of. The pond stores in town have no idea what it is. We had the water tested and were advised to add Phosfree and a buffer to the water, but they said there are no major water problems. I think I am at the point of draining the pond and trying to kill off what’s in there, but would LOVE advice from anyone that can help. This has been going on since June and the temperatureS when it started were in the low 80’s and fairly rainy, now it’s 95-100 almost every day with full sun. The pond is surrounded by trees so it does receive partial shade for a large majority of the day.

 

[Mmathis]

Hello and welcome! Sorry, I can’t help you, but have to ask — why do you have a pond with only water, no fish, no plants? Is there a fountain or waterfall? I can see it as a water feature, but those usually involve moving water. Just curious.

 

[TeamElls]

Ok, semantics, it is a water feature with a stream that flows around half of a fire pit patio ending in a pool or pond behind the fire pit.

 

[mrsclem]

Since there are no fish or plants, try adding 1-2 cups of white vinegar to the water. That should kill the algae and the water is still safe for birds and insects.

 

[j.w]

@TeamElls
You said your pond is surrounded by a lot of trees so perhaps it is tannins from the leaves as what this online site says: https://pondinformer.com/why-is-my-pond-water-red/

 

[Ax01]

Wow! "Red Tide" in a pond. so sorry i don't have experience in this area and can't help ya but i will follow this thread so that i may also learn what's going on and how to help/fix it.