Easy to mix and use Because Coptrol is a non-corrosive viscous liquid similar in consistency to honey, it is really easy to measure, mix and apply.
It readily dissolves in water. Once diluted it can be applied from horticulture sprayers or even a knapsack spray. For smaller storages it can be applied from the bank and it can even be dripped directly in high volume treatments such as flood irrigation. Before treating with Coptrol, calculate the volume of the body of water. Do this by measuring the surface area and multiplying it by the average depth down to 1 metre (you can ignore depths below 1 metre). Click here to learn how to calculate the volume of water.
The best application method is by spraying using a 1:10 or 1:20 Coptrol/water dilution. For the best result, apply on a sunlit, wind-free day when algae first appear.
Where the water is heavily infested with algae, it is advisable ‑ where practicable ‑ to remove clumps of algae with a rake or net before applying Coptrol. In really heavy infestations it may be necessary to apply a second treatment after 10‑15 days. Coptrol can be used wherever algae pose a problem or cause a nuisance. General Application Rates The rate of use depends on the degree of infestation. The kinds of algae present and the depth of water to be treated. To identify algae see the website www.algae.info Potable Water (Drinking Water) 2-5 mL Coptrol per 1000 litres of water.
Dams, ponds 2-5 litres Coptrol per 1000 square metres surface or per million litres of storage water.
Blue Green Algae
Free floating algae
Free floating algae application (Euglena, Microcystis, Aphanizomenon, Oscillatoria, Dictyosphaerium and Anabaena) require treatment with Coptrol of only 0.2 mg/litre of copper in the water. In practical terms this is equivalent to only 2 mL Coptrol per square metre of surface or 2 litres of Coptrol per million litres of water.
Note: 1 square metre is approximately equal to 11 square feet Filamentous algae
(Spirogyra, Chlorella, Hydrodictyon, Cladophora and Oedogonium) require treatment with Coptrol 5 mL per square metre or 5 litres per 1000 square metres surface or per million litres of storage water. Note: Chara and Phormidium are more resistant and may require treatment with Coptrol in the range of 0.5 mg to 1.0 mg/litre - 5 - 10 litres Coptrol per 1000 sq. metres of surface area. In recurring cases it is worthwhile having algae identified to assist in accurate control. Use this link for detailed dose rates for specific applications Higher rates are generally beneficial, because there is NO WASTAGE of Coptrol. It remains active in the water until algae actually use it up thereby inhibiting further build up of algae.
For best results ensure that water temperature is at least 16°C (61°F). If fish are present read How to Control Algae in Aquaculture