Surface Pond Film

Surface pond film can be described as pond scum, surface oil, oil slick ect…

The truth is, surface pond film is fairly common for many pond owners and can come and go unexpectantly.  The trouble with surface pond film is that it can be caused by so many different variables, which makes it difficult to treat.

We have been working with a proud pond owner for the past several weeks regarding his pond film and it seems to be clearing up.  Here are some tips and tricks to diagnose your pond film.

The first step is to ask if there has been a major change (major landscape work, excessive rain, excessive drought).  If you have had a major change in your pond recently this could have contributed or intensified and existing problem in your pond.  Typically with these instances you need to give your pond some time to recover and get back to a normal healthy balance before taking drastic treatment measures.

Some pond films are caused by algae blooms.  Algae can give off proteins and oil like substances that will sit on the surface of the water.  Dirt, pollen, sand, and any other particles that may enter your pond will then become trapped on top of the water making the pond film look even worse.  To relieve some of the surface tension you can mix 1 tsp of liquid dish soap with 5 gallons of water and do a spray application over the top of the water.  You can also use Sanco’s Crystal Plex to treat your algae bloom.  Several algae applications may need to be made depending on how severe your algae bloom is. 

In our experience with diagnosing and treating surface pond film it is trial/error and time.  The most difficult thing to do is to wait after treatment in order to see the real results of the treatment just attempted.

For more information on Sanco’s complete line of pond products contact our helpful staff.