Copper Sulfate

Which types of algae will copper sulfate eliminate?

Copper sulfate will eliminate filamentous algae and planktonic algae. We recommend using one pound of copper sulfate for each 5,000 sq. ft. of algae growth. Copper sulfate is also great for killing Chara. We recommend using the maximum label rate for Chara.

When should I apply copper sulfate?

Algae should be present and actively growing before applying a copper algaecide. This product can also be applied at the same time as an aquatic herbicide.

How to apply copper sulfate?

Evenly broadcast copper sulfate over algae mats in the treatment area. We recommend using a scoop or a broadcast spreader. Copper sulfate should be applied on a sunny, calm day when the water temperature is 60° F or warmer.

Is copper sulfate safe to use if I have fish?

Fish such as trout, koi, and channel catfish have a copper sensitivity. If you have these fish in your pond or lake, we recommend using a non-copper algaecide for algae control. For other fish species, copper sulfate is safe to use when spot treating or for treating no more than ½ of the body of water at one time.

What is swimmer’s itch?

Swimmer’s itch is a temporary rash that is caused by an allergic reaction to parasites that are carried by waterfowl, semi-aquatic mammals, and snails.

Can you avoid getting swimmer’s itch?

Swimmer’s itch is not spread from person to person. You can avoid getting swimmer’s itch by keeping waterfowl away from your dock and swim area (check our out our Goose D-Fence system), staying out of the water by the shoreline, or by drying off with a towel as soon as you get out of the water.

What is the best type of algaecide for a lake?

Using a copper algaecide such as copper sulfate is the best algaecide to use on bottom-growing algae. It works great on killing planktonic and filamentous algae and Chara.

Read all labels for complete instructions before applying products.

Algae identification

Swimmer’s itch information

Our recommendations:

Algae control

Swimmer’s itch control

How to apply

• Use a broadcast spreader or scoop for easy application
• Evenly broadcast the granules over the algae or into the swimming area of the infected snail bed
• If spraying is preferred, dissolve 1 lb. copper sulfate in 1 gallon of water

When to apply

• Apply on a sunny, calm day when the water temperature is 60° F or warmer
• If using for algae, treat when algae are actively growing and near the surface of the water
• If using for swimmer’s itch, apply to the infected snail bed two days before swimming.

Other tips

• Application rates based on a 2 ft. average depth, areas with dense growth may require a higher rate to be used
• In a pond, if the algae are around the perimeter, treat the whole perimeter
• In a pond, do not treat more than half of your pond at one time. Wait 10-14 days before applying a second treatment to the remainder of the pond

Copper Sulfate 5 lbs. & 15 lbs. Label

Copper Sulfate 5 lbs. & 15 lbs. SDS

Copper Sulfate 50 lbs. Label

Copper Sulfate 50 lbs. SDS

Aquatic herbicides water use restrictions according to label:

• Swimming: none mentioned
• Drinking water: none mentioned
• Domestic uses: none mentioned
• Fish consumption: none mentioned
• Irrigation for food/crop: none mentioned
• Irrigation for turf/ornamental: none mentioned
• Livestock watering: none mentioned

Hazmat shipping fee for 50 lbs. is $30.00.

FREE shipping on orders $99+

Orders $98.99 or less will be charged $12.95.

Orders are usually shipped within one day by a ground carrier.

U.S. shipping only.

Certain regulations apply for shipping to AK, CA, CT, DE, HI, ID, KS, ME, MA, NH, NJ, NY, SD, VT, VA, WA, DC. Please contact us if you live in one of these states: 1-877-428-8898.