Chara Algae Identification

Chara, also known as muskgrass, is a pond algae that is frequently misidentified as a weed.  Visually chara grows just like a weed so it is understandable why pond owners would make this assumption.  The most important part to treating any growth in your pond is to properly identify your plants.  If you misidentify chara as a weed you will most often be given an herbicide to treat your pond.  Herbicides can be really expensive and will not do anything to control the chara. 

Chara algae grows on the pond floor in large billowing pillows.  It can grow slightly above the surface of the water.  Chara will often have a musky odor and a crunchy texture.   

Chara algae should be treated with Crystal Plex, a liquid copper sulfate.  The best way to treat is by using a spray application.  While chara can hinder recreational use of a pond, having some chara is beneficial for a pond.  Chara is a filter algae and can keep pond water very clean and clear looking.  If possible, treat areas that are most used for recreation.

For more information on chara or other pond plants contact Sanco.