There are numerous aquatic plants that are used to combat algae. However, not all of them are really suitable; some can become a nuisance themselves. You can read in this article to what extent waterweed is suitable for combating or containing algae.
Does waterweed help against algae?
Waterweed can definitely help youto curb algae growth. At the same time, the plant improves the water quality as it enriches the water with oxygen. However, it tends to grow and is difficult to remove. So it can become a problem itself.
What exactly is waterweed?
Waterweed (bot. Elodea) is a genus of plants from the frogbite family (bot. Hydrocharitaceae). Depending on the species, the freshwater plants come from North or South America. They were not originally native to Europe, but some species have spread here as neophytes. Waterweed roots at the bottom of the pond and forms highly branched stems. Depending on the species, the shoots can reach a length of up to three meters.
How can I use waterweed against algae?
Since waterweed needs the same substances to live as algae, these plants are directnutrient competitors. Where waterweed grows, there is little to no basis for algae to live. Their reproduction is severely inhibited.
Where do I get waterweed?
Waterweed is soldin garden centersas well as in specialist shopson the internetSince the plant is also used in aquariums, it is also in theSpecialist supplies for aquariumsavailable. If you know aquarium owners or have friends with a garden pond, then ask them for a few stems of waterweed. You can easily plant these stems.
Does the use of waterweed also have disadvantages?
Yes, the use of waterweed against algae hasalso disadvantages. The perennial herbaceous plants are considered undemanding and grow quite quickly. Once the aquatic plants are rooted in the bottom of the pond, they are difficult to remove.
Is there a good alternative to waterweed against algae?
You can also use other aquatic plants against algae. Duckweed has proven to be quite unproblematic. They can also push back algae. Because they float on the surface of the water, they are easy to keep in check or remove if they get out of hand.
Tip
Waterweed in the aquarium
The undemanding and easy-to-cultivate waterweed is very popular in aquarium keeping. It grows to around 50 centimeters tall and grows quite quickly. By using waterweed, you can not only limit the growth of algae in the aquarium, but also increase the oxygen content of the water. Shy inhabitants, such as shrimps, like to hide between the long stalks.
