Asked By: Clare of Westford, VT
A: It sounds like that strange stuff floating in your pond is pollen – particularly if you've had the same issue at about the same time in previous years. How do you identify it and get rid of it? Read on to learn more about fixing your pollen problem.
Just on the Surface
Looking like an oil slick floating on top of your pond, the pollen's hue may vary in shade from white to yellow to green, particularly if there's a little algae mixed in. The substance will break apart if you run your fingers through it, and it often forms a circle around aeration plates.
The tiny pieces of
pollen stay on the surface thanks to something called surface tension. Pollen is light, and when it lands on still water that's not moving it remains there. Unless something breaks the water tension, like rain or the splash from a fountain, the pollen will continue to float and coat the water surface.
Saying 'Goodbye' to Pollen
If you want to get rid of that unsightly pollen, here's what we recommend:
- Add Aeration: Aeration, like our Airmax Aeration Systems, churns and moves the water below the surface, and that action will help break down the surface tension from the bottom up. We offer a range of aerator sizes to fit any pond, from small ornamental features to large water gardens or fish ponds.
- Add Some Splash: While the aerator cycles the subsurface water, a decorative fountain like our EcoSeries Fountains, or even a garden hose (in desperation!) will break the water tension and dissipate the pollen. Check out the different styles, sizes and spray patterns of our fountains – they look great and work hard!
- Wait It Out: Pollen will eventually dissipate with the changing of the season or after a heavy rain. If you're patient and wait it out, the problem will resolve on its own.
Green Be Gone
Is the pollen in your pond a bit green? You could be battling algae and pollen problem. In addition to resolving the situation with aeration and a decorative fountain, use
Algae Defense. It's a fast-acting, algae-killing liquid formula that can be applied directly to your pond with a sprayer – so it'll destroy the green stuff and dissipate the pollen.
Last Updated: February 1, 2023