Maintaining a clean and transparent pond can sometimes be tough when the water begins to change colour. Each type of water colour in your pond, such as green, brown, cloudy, or black, reflects a unique situation where you can find some helpful information. Awareness of these issues allows you to repair any imbalances.
A pond drum filter makes it much easier to keep water clear by efficiently catching debris. You can rely on the products and services of That Pond Guy to keep your pond water healthy and spotless. They offer well-tested products from the most trustworthy manufacturers in the UK.
Green Water and Slimy Algae
Owners of ponds have found that green water often looks as bad as pea soup. It happens when algae increase because of more sunlight, heat or an imbalance of nutrients. Algae growing on rocks or liner material is yet another sign.
Fix this by looking at your UV clarifier, putting some lilies into the pond, and ensuring the water is properly aerated. Giving fish too much food or keeping too many in the pond can worsen the problem, so regular feeding and population checks are necessary.
Cloudy Water Woes
Most of the time, cloudy pond water means the water contains more sludge or dead organic matter. It might be because the filter is filthy or there are not enough helpful bacteria. Keeping the water tank clean and adding sludge treatment now and then can do a lot to fix the issue.
If fish look stressed or breathe heavily, poor oxygen supply might be causing the issue. Having waterfalls or fountains in the pond ensures oxygen levels are high and prevents the water from becoming murky.
Brown Water Troubles
Brown water is less common but can stem from tannins (released by leaves or wood) or floating sediment. A simple jar test helps identify the cause—if sediment settles at the bottom, fine filter foams or a partial water change can help.
For tannins, bacterial treatments like gel balls work well. In severe cases, a full water change might be necessary.
Foamy Water Fixes
Foamy water often signals excess protein from overfeeding or decaying plants. Testing water parameters is crucial here. Reducing fish food and performing a partial water change usually resolves the issue. A well-sized pump and filter system also play a big role in preventing foam buildup.
Black Water Blues
Though rare, black water is alarming and often linked to waste buildup, low oxygen, or a damaged liner. Immediate water testing is essential. Avoid overusing chemical treatments, as they can sometimes worsen the problem. Aeration and proper filtration are your best defences.
Prevention Is Key
Regular maintenance—like removing debris, controlling fish food, and using treatments sparingly—keeps discolouration at bay. Covering the pond during leaf fall and vacuuming sludge periodically also helps. Giving the right attention to your pond will ensure it stays clean and clear all year long.
If you are proactive, you will likely not experience the stress of unexpected water colour changes in your pond. For expert advice and reliable products, That Pond Guy can help you achieve the best water quality for your pond.
