The members have it correct about your small pond algae issues. Even more dramatic to what FishinRod said "Algae spores are nearly everywhere in non-desert environments". Algae spores ARE everywhere especially where there is any wind. Algae seems to grow everywhere. Different species prefer different conditions. Sunlight, water and nutrients make them grow. IMO it will be hard to maintain good water quality all the time in those tiny ponds. If they were mine I would research wetlands and then try and copy and use a few of the recommended nutrient consuming plants that are used in wetland management.
https://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/updates/ephemeral-ponds-seasonal-habitat-for-wildlife/https://ngs.org.uk/app/uploads/2024/01/How-to-make-a-mini-wetland-guide_NGS.pdfsee the section on How to Build a Wildlife pond. Appropriate for your situation.
See THIS FROM PENN STATE
HTTPS://EXTENSION.PSU.EDU/MANAGING-YOUR-RESTORED-WETLAND
The following listing is a selection of plants adapted to wetlands. Plants are grouped under headings indicating their ability to tolerate standing water. Appendix A describes these and other common wetland plants and their benefits for wildlife.
Obligate
• Arrow arum (Peltandra virginica)
• Beaked spikerush (Eleocharis rostellata)
• Blue flag (Iris versicolor)
• Cattail (Typha spp.)
• Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
• Hardstem bulrush (Scirpus acutus)
• Manna grass (Glyceria striata)
• Overcup oak (Quercus lyrata)
• Rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides)
• Skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus)
• Tussock sedge (Carex stricta)
• Water tupelo (Nyssa aquatica)
Note there are also other good marginal pond plants that will grow in your tiny ponds. Do diligent homework.
