This article has been checked for horticultural accuracy by Oliver Parsons.

Ad

What is blanket weed?

Blanket weed is a common type of algae found in garden ponds, especially in spring and early summer. Masses of fine, hair-like, bright green strands form cotton-wool-like clumps in the water. Blanket weed is most vigorous in the early part of the growing season when rising temperatures, increasing day length, and a high level of available nutrients all boost growth. Later in the year, aquatic plants growing in and around the pond tend to out-perform blanket weed, so it usually becomes less of an issue. During winter, blanket weed usually disappears from view as growth slows and stops.

Is blanket weed a problem?

While small amounts of blanket weed are not a cause for concern, particularly early in the year, an abundance of weed may cause problems by inhibiting plant growth, and affecting fish health by reducing oxygen levels in the water. Large amounts of blanket weed make the pond look unsightly. However, some wildlife such as newts and toads use blanket weed to lay their eggs, and it provides cover for their young. Young tadpoles eat blanket weed and other algae, so it provides plenty of food for developing larvae.

Loading...

Sponsored content

Ad
Ad
Ad
Loading...

Sponsored content

Loading...

Sponsored content