Why Should I Use Pond Dye?
Posted by Jeff Kennedy on Mon, Dec 06, 2010 @ 12:24 PM
A question we are often asked is-Why should I use pond dye?
Two of the biggest problems a pond owner faces are nuisance aquatic plants and algae. Traditionally, pond owners have relied on herbicides and algicides to control outbreaks of algae and submerged plants. Copper Sulfate, Diquat, Endothall and Floridone are just some of the chemical treatments many have become dependent using year after year. Often, pond owners are reluctant to use these chemicals due to irrigation restrictions, aquatic species limitations and chemical residues.
Pond dye is a low cost all natural alternative that can significantly reduce submerged aquatic plant and algae growth. Like all plants, aquatic plants and algae require sunlight and nutrients to flourish. Plants can only grow when sufficient light reaches the bottom of the pond or the "photic zone". If light cannot penetrate the lower layers of the pond plants cannot grow. Limiting light by adding dye limits the potential for algae and plant growth. Dyes are less effective in shallows, but in many cases the reduction in overall biomass is sufficient for most pond owners. Dyes will not impact emergent plants, such as cattails or floating leaved plants.
The effectiveness of Pond Dye depends the time of year you apply the product, water shed, dosage rate and maintenance schedule. Apply dye early in the spring to prevent germination and limit early season growth. Water exchange is also critical, so if you shed water, you will have to re-treat. Getting the color right is fairly easy as Organic Pond bases our dosage rate on water volume-five acre feet per gallon. This represents the typical 1 acre pond with an average depth of 5 feet. The key is maintaining the color throughout the season. If you see the color fading-add more dye.
Pond dye is easy to use, simply pour around the edge of the pond and natural water movement will disperse the dye in 24 hours.Once dispersed, the dye will not stain you, your pets or your fish.
You will find that pond dye is easy to use, very effective and earth friendly.