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Uncle Marvo · 12-09-2006, 09:23 AM posted to uk.rec.gardening

In reply to hzatph ) who wrote this in
, I, Marvo, say :

I've used the UV systems, which are not as effective as I thought
they would
be. What was the answer, in the end, is to pump the water up a level
to another "pond" which was a 1 metre square hole filled with fine
gravel, into which were planted bullrushes, then let the water run
back down (over an ornamental rockery slope planted with alpines and
hostas). The bullrushes "eat" whatever it is that blanketweed likes.
My biology/chemistry are not up to knowing exactly what, but I
believe it's somthing to do with nitrogen balance. Also my Koi Carp
"Frank" became pregnant, so they must like it too. He became known
as Frances. HTH

Interesting. The UV system seems to work well on all but the sunniest
and warmest period. I did check the lamps were OK and clean at the
beginning of the season and all looks well. Maybe we should get some
more plants in the ponds next year.

Agreed, in the hot sunny times the UV doesn't keep it down, whereas the
bullrushes work even better. Added advantage is that the bullrushes thrive
in that environment and look tremendous.

Have you got lilies? They help as well but obviously they stop you (and the
cats, herons, kingfishers etc) seeing your fish :-)