🍂 Autumn Algae & Cyanobacteria: Risks and Why It’s Time to Call the Experts

Autumn isn’t just about colourful leaves - it’s also the time when invisible changes begin happening in ponds and lakes. Falling leaves, decaying plants, and cooler nights create the perfect conditions for algae and the even more harmful cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).

Many pond owners try to tackle these problems themselves, but well-meaning DIY treatments often make things worse. That’s why it's best to leave autumn pond care to professionals like FishLife Pond Services.

Why Do Algae and Cyanobacteria in Ponds Thrive in Autumn?

• Leaves and dying plants settle on the bottom, forming a sludge rich in phosphates, the primary food source for algae.

• Beneficial nitrifying bacteria slow down as water temperatures drop.

• Plants stop absorbing nutrients, giving algae the upper hand.

• The result? Green sludge, cloudy water, foul odours, and toxic byproducts are released by cyanobacteria, which can be harmful to fish, pets, and even humans.

  
  

Signs Your Pond Needs Help

• Water turning green or brown

• Slime on rocks, plants, or surfaces

• Lethargic fish or signs of stress

• Visible sludge on the bottom

  
  

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's time to take action.

What Needs to Be Done (And Why You Should Leave It to FishLife)

In theory, you could remove the leaves, test the water, and apply treatments yourself. However, in practice, it requires time, expertise, and knowledge of which products can be used together safely.

Here’s what FishLife Pond Services can take care of for you:

Professional Sludge Removal

Our Process:

FishLife uses a combination of manual removal, pumping systems, and OASE Lake Therapy treatments such as SchlixX Plus to extract organic sludge and restore a healthy pond ecosystem safely.

Unlike basic cleaning services, we understand the aquatic science behind the buildup, and know how to remove it without harming your fish, plants, or beneficial bacteria.

Water Testing

We analyse KH, pH, phosphate and ammonia using OASE professional-grade test kits, providing precise, actionable results.

Application of OASE Lake Therapy Products

Including SeDox, SchlixX Plus, ClearLake and OptiLake to:

• Eliminate excess phosphates

• Stabilise water chemistry

• Boost beneficial bacteria

• Suppress algae and cyanobacteria.

  
  

  

Aeration System Installation & Servicing

We supply and maintain aerators, such as OASE AquaOxy, as well as floating fountains, to enhance oxygenation and circulation.

Now Is the Perfect Time to Act

Before temperatures drop further and the pond enters its dormant phase, take action to protect your pond for the months ahead.

Autumn pond care means: 

✔ Fewer algae issues next spring 

✔ Healthier fish through winter 

✔ Clear, stable water quality year-round.

Don’t let small issues become big ones - book your autumn pond service with FishLife today.

📞 Ready to schedule your autumn pond service?

Contact us now for a personalised quote or expert advice. Let’s make sure your pond is ready for winter, and even better, next spring.