Apply 0.6 to 1.2 Gallons of Cutrine Plus Per Acre-Foot of Water
To treat a one-acre pond, apply 0.6 to 1.2 gallons of Cutrine Plus per acre-foot of water. For a pond averaging four feet deep, this equates to 2.4 to 4.8 gallons total. Dilute the chemical with water at a nine-to-one ratio and apply during sunny conditions for the best results.
Calculating Total Pond Volume
Chemical dosing is based on acre-feet rather than surface area alone. One acre-foot equals one surface acre of water at a depth of one foot. To determine your pond's requirements, multiply the surface acreage by the average depth. Accurate volume measurements prevent under-treatment or excessive chemical use.
If a pond is one acre in size but has varying depths, calculate the average depth by taking several measurements across the basin. For example, a one-acre pond with a two-foot shallow end and a six-foot deep end has an average depth of four feet, requiring a higher dosage than a shallow pond.
Dosage Rates by Algae Type
| Algae Type | Dosage Per Acre-Foot | Growth Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Planktonic Algae | 0.6 Gallons | Microscopic, green water soup |
| Filamentous Algae | 1.2 Gallons | Stringy, floating mats or "pond scum" |
| Chara or Nitella | 1.2 Gallons | Benthic, carpet-like bottom growth |
Preparation and Mixing Instructions
- Dilution: Mix the liquid concentrate with water in a clean spray tank. A common ratio is one part chemical to nine parts water to ensure even coverage.
- Agitation: Stir or shake the solution thoroughly before beginning the application process.
- Equipment: Use a pressurized backpack sprayer for shorelines or a boat-mounted tank for larger open water areas.
Best Practices for Effective Treatment
- Treat ponds in sections if algae cover is heavy. Treating more than half the pond at once can lead to oxygen depletion as vegetation decays.
- Apply during bright, sunny days when algae are actively growing and absorbing nutrients.
- Ensure the water temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold water slows the metabolic rate of the algae, making the treatment less effective.
- Focus the spray directly onto floating mats or use weighted hoses for bottom-growing species like Chara.