Your Pond Deserves Better Than Algae and Chemicals

Three ways. First, plant roots provide massive surface area for biofilm, the microbial communities that trap and digest pollutants. This drives about 80% of the treatment. Second, the plants themselves absorb dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus through their roots. Third, suspended particles get caught in the root network and settle out faster than gravity alone. Clemson's research overview goes deeper on each mechanism.

A common starting point is 5-10% of your water surface, but it depends on your nutrient load, depth, and what you're trying to achieve. That's exactly what our sizing calculator is built for. Plug in your pond dimensions and we'll give you a module count. For complex installations, our team does custom layout design with an expert review.

You've got options: earth anchors for bank mounting, or concrete blocks and plow anchors for deeper water. The system is engineered to handle up to 6.5 feet of water level fluctuation and has been tested for wave chop, wind, and boat traffic. The NC State Extension installation guide covers anchoring best practices in detail.

Native wetland sedges, rushes, and grasses tend to perform best. You're looking for species with strong buoyancy and extensive root systems. Recommended density is 3-5 plants per 10 square feet. We help you select the right species for your region and conditions. Clemson Extension's plant guide has a solid species list to start from.

Chemicals need to be reapplied. Floating wetlands get better over time as root systems and biofilm communities mature. No power, no ongoing chemical costs, and the treatment is continuous. Studies show a 4-13 year breakeven compared to chemical programs, and after that it's essentially free treatment with minimal maintenance. For many of our clients, the math isn't even close once you factor in 3-5 years of chemical costs.

Very little. Clemson Extension recommends cutting plant crowns once a year, ideally in late fall, to keep dead material out of the water. Check your anchors occasionally and pull any invasive weeds by hand if they show up. Never apply herbicides or fertilizers to the wetland. That's about it.

Plant uptake slows down when things go dormant, but the biofilm on root systems continues working at reduced capacity through cooler months. The HDPE modules handle freeze-thaw cycles just fine. Most installations stay in place year-round. Peak treatment happens during the growing season, which is also when nutrient loading and algae pressure are highest.