Watermeal: A Common Pond Problem and How to Manage It
What is Watermeal?
Watermeal is a tiny, floating plant that can quickly take over a garden pond, forming a dense mat that covers the water’s surface. It’s one of the world’s smallest flowering plants, measuring just 1 to 1 1/2 millimeters in length. Despite its small size, watermeal can be a big nuisance for pond owners.
Why is Watermeal a Problem?
Watermeal can quickly cover the entire surface of a pond, blocking sunlight from reaching underwater plants and depriving them of oxygen. This can lead to a decline in plant health and even fish kills. Additionally, watermeal can make it difficult to enjoy the pond for swimming or fishing.
How to Control Watermeal
There are several effective ways to control watermeal in a garden pond:
1. Remove Nutrient-Rich Materials
Watermeal thrives on nutrient-rich materials, such as decaying plant matter and fertilizer runoff. Reducing the amount of these materials entering the pond is crucial for long-term watermeal control.
- Clean up fallen leaves and debris from the pond regularly.
- Divert fertilizer runoff from lawns and gardens away from the pond.
- Limit the use of fertilizers around the pond, especially during heavy rains.
2. Use Bubble Aerators
Bubble aerators increase oxygen levels in the pond, which helps to break down organic matter and reduce the growth of watermeal. Place an aerator in the deepest part of the pond to maximize its effectiveness.
3. Introduce Pond Creatures
Certain pond creatures, such as koi fish, grass carp, and ducks, feed on watermeal. Introducing these creatures to the pond can help control watermeal populations naturally.
- Koi fish: Koi readily eat watermeal.
- Grass carp: Grass carp may prefer to eat other plants first, but they will also consume watermeal.
- Ducks: Ducks are known to gobble up watermeal.
Preventing Watermeal
Prevention is always better than cure, so here are some tips to prevent watermeal from taking hold in your pond:
- Keep the pond clean: Regularly remove fallen leaves, debris, and other organic matter from the pond.
- Control fertilizer runoff: Divert fertilizer runoff from lawns and gardens away from the pond.
- Use floating plants: Floating plants, such as water lilies, can help shade the water’s surface and prevent watermeal from growing.
- Add barley straw: Barley straw releases compounds that can inhibit watermeal growth.
Conclusion
Watermeal can be a nuisance in garden ponds, but it can be effectively controlled and prevented with the right strategies. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your pond clean and free of watermeal, allowing you to enjoy your water feature to the fullest.
