Aquatic Plants and Algae
Information on pond management and aquatic plants, including identification, chemical or biological control of aquatic plants and harmful algae blooms. Tips on invasive species, such as European water chestnut, pondweeds, filamentous algae.
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ArticlesMid-Atlantic Pocket Guide to Water Garden Species
This information is intended to help select native aquatic plant alternatives and avoid invasive plant species. This guide is intended as a portable reference. -
ArticlesControlling Nuisance Aquatic Plants and Algae in Farm Ponds
Unwanted, overabundant aquatic plant and algae growth is one of the most common management issues pond owners face. -
NewsEuropean Water Chestnut Reported in Indiana County
Date Posted 6/3/2024This invasive aquatic plant was previously reported in only eleven northwestern and eastern Pennsylvania counties. -
ArticlesGuide for Completing the State Application for Aquatic Herbicide Use
Tips to help rural property owners complete DEP’s application for use of algaecides or herbicides in private ponds in Pennsylvania. -
VideosPhysical Control of Aquatic Plants
Length 4:23There are a variety of physical control strategies that can be employed. Physically harvesting aquatic plants can have a positive, long-lasting effect. -
ArticlesFacts About Aquatic Invasive Species and Water Gardens
A water garden is fundamentally an outdoor aquarium. The gardener needs to manage the pH, nutrients, and organisms introduced into the system. -
ArticlesManagement of Fish Ponds in Pennsylvania
General information on all aspects of pond construction and maintenance for building a new pond or taking care of an existing pond used for swimming, irrigation, fishing, or other activities. -
ArticlesPenn State Extension Resources for Pond and Lake Owners
Penn State Extension has many written and video resources to help with the proper management of ponds and lakes. -
VideosGetting to Know Your Pond
Length 3:19Proper pond management practices should always start with an assessment and inspection of the current conditions in the pond. -
VideosHarmful Algae Blooms (HABs)
Length 6:10A harmful algae bloom (HAB) in your pond can endanger people and animals. This video describes HABs and discusses possible courses of action if you have one. -
ArticlesPond Algae: It's Not All Bad!
Late summer brings questions to Penn State Extension from pond owners about nuisance algae growth. -
VideosCauses and Prevention of Aquatic Plant and Algae Growth
Length 3:24When plants and algae grow abundantly, pond and lake owners often think about ways to eliminate the offending plant. Nutrient control is the long term solution. -
VideosAquatic Invasive Species in Pennsylvania
Length 12:36Several Aquatic Invasive Species of particular concern in Pennsylvania are discussed, and their identifying characteristics reviewed. -
VideosAquatic Plant Identification
Length 4:14While aquatic plants and algae may interfere with pond uses, they also serve vital roles in supporting the fish and animal life that make up the pond ecosystem. -
VideosBiological Control of Aquatic Plants
Length 2:50There are a few biological methods, that when applied correctly can be very effective and environmentally friendly to your pond. -
ArticlesPermit Requirement for Use of An Aquatic Herbicide in Ponds
If you use any aquatic herbicide on your pond to control algae or aquatic plants, you must first obtain a state permit. -
VideosChemical Control of Aquatic Plants
Length 7:14Herbicides are often the first thing pond owners turn to when nuisance aquatic plants appear in their ponds. -
VideosPond Ecology and the Role of Aquatic Plants
Length 3:11This video provides an overview of aquatic plants. -
VideosIdentifying Aquatic Plants
Length 6:01This video will look at the four categories of pond plants, and some of the most common aquatic plants that are found in Pennsylvania. -
VideosFive Tips for a Healthy Pond
Length 8:44Many earthen ponds have problems with algae, nuisance wildlife, or water quality. This video provides a few simple tips to help solve or prevent these common problems and ensure a healthy pond. -
ArticlesBarley Straw for Algae Control
In recent years, the use of barley straw has become more common as an alternative method for controlling excessive algae growth. -
ArticlesWinterkill in Ponds
In the winter, the water gets much colder, and ice may cover the top of the pond for an extended period. This can lead to what is called "Winterkill." -
ArticlesPond Measurements: Area, Volume and Residence Time
An explanation of basic pond measurements that are vital to pond management practices. -
ArticlesPond Agencies and Permits in Pennsylvania
Information on the role of various agencies and permits that may be required for construction or maintenance of earthen ponds. -
ArticlesDuckweed and Watermeal
Duckweed and watermeal are free-floating aquatic plants that are commonly encountered in Pennsylvania. They are commonly found in nutrient-rich ponds with stagnant or little flow.
