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Control Chara Algae

Often misidentified for a submersed plant, this special type of algae can invade spaces and clog waterways. The following options can be considered for how to control Chara.

Click here to read more about identifying these algae.

Manual/Mechanical Control:

If you are considering how to remove Chara, physically raking the algae can be a somewhat effective method of control. However, physical control can be difficult. Chara can re-grow from any spores or fragments remaining in the water. Chara regrowth is quickened by high nutrient load and warm temperatures.

Algaecide Control:

There is an option for how to kill Chara that offers great control. Copper algaecides are not recommended in ponds with trout, koi, or channel catfish.

Copper algaecides:

Mizzen *Max label rate* (for ponds or lakes) – liquid that is diluted with water and sprayed over the algae, fast acting. Re-apply when algae bloom again.
Copper sulfate *Max label rate* (for ponds or lakes) – granules that are broadcast over the algae, fast acting. Re-apply when algae bloom again.

Treatment Tips:

When treating Chara,

Treat when the algae are young. As Chara matures, calcium deposits develop that make it more difficult to absorb the copper algaecides.
If the algae are around the perimeter, treat the whole perimeter.
Treat no more than half the pond at a time, about two weeks apart.

Prevent Algae Growth:

There are no products available that can completely prevent algae growth. Directly managing nuisance pond algae growth through regular pond algae treatment or removal efforts will always be important for pond algae control. However, you can work to limit algae growth by reducing the nutrients that algae need to grow. Phosphorus is the main nutrient for algae growth, and removing the phosphorus from the water is a proactive effort for algae reduction.

PhosControl (for ponds or lakes) – granules that are broadcast into the treatment area. Bonds with the free phosphorus and some other organic materials. Use when there is minimal plant and algae growth.
SparKlear (for ponds or lakes) – granules that are broadcast or liquid that is diluted and sprayed into the treatment area. The beneficial bacteria dissolve the excess nutrients, fast-acting.