What the Muck? — SchlixX It!: Your Webinar Questions Answered
In our latest webinar, “What the Muck? — SchlixX It”, we explored organic sediment and a revolutionary technology designed to tackle organic sediment like never before. While we covered many of your questions during and after the session, our experts have compiled this follow-up to address the most frequently asked questions.
- What is the expected muck reduction?
The expected muck reduction varies based on sediment composition, water conditions, and application rates. On average, SchlixX Plus can reduce muck by 4-12 inches per application, depending on the severity of the buildup and other environmental factors. Water temperatures need to be above 50 degrees.
- When is the best time to apply SchlixX Plus for maximum efficiency?
For optimal results, apply SchlixX Plus when water temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C) and are expected to remain at or above this level for at least 60 days. In northern climates, this typically limits applications to spring and summer, while in southern regions, year-round treatments may be possible. Warmer temperatures support increased microbial activity and chemical processes that accelerate sediment breakdown.
For preventative maintenance, an early spring application helps reduce organic accumulation before peak summer growth.
When applying SchlixX Plus during the growing season, you will need to be mindful of macrophytes in the pond/lake that could prevent the product reaching the bed of sediments and working properly.
- How should SchlixX Plus be applied, how often should the application be repeated, and what is the annual dosage for a 1-acre (4,050m²) pond?
- Application Method: SchlixX Plus can be applied dry or in a slurry (preferred application). Product should be applied evenly to the surface of the body of water.
- Frequency: Treatments are typically applied annually during the active season. Maintenance doses are applied annually or bi-annually at a lower rate.
- Dosing Rate for a 1-Acre Pond: The average application rate is 450 lbs per surface acre, though actual dosing may range from 250 to 700 lbs per acre depending on muck depth and overall water conditions.
- What is the recommended protocol for use in flow-through lakes, and how long does treatment take?
For flow-through lakes, it’s essential to:
- Apply in calmer areas where water residence time is longer.
- Inject the slurried SchlixX Plus into the surface sediments to prevent product loss. Applying it this way rather than through the water column would ensure the majority of the product remains insitu.
- Use multiple smaller applications instead of a single large dose to prevent excessive product loss.
- Target coves, inlets, and problem areas first, as water movement in these spots is slower.
Treatment Duration: Results are typically observed within 6-8 weeks, with significant muck reduction occurring over the course of a season (3–6 months). For continuous improvement, ongoing applications may be required.
- How can SchlixX Plus help maintain water levels in lakes and ponds?
SchlixX Plus reduces organic muck, which helps:
- Increase water depth by breaking down accumulated organic matter in the sediment.
- Prevent clogging of outflows and reduce nutrient overload, which can contribute to excessive plant growth that accelerates water loss.
- Speed up organic decomposition, helping to stabilize shoreline contours.
- Can you provide more details on the solutions offered by SchlixX Plus?
SchlixX Plus is a dual-action formula that:
- Accelerates organic muck breakdown using oxygen-releasing compounds.
- Binds phosphorus that is released from the degradation of organic matter and preventing its release into the water column which helps to prevent nutrient-driven algae blooms and excessive weed growth.
- Works in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, making it effective in deep sediment layers.
- Combats odors in lakes through the decomposition of hydrogen sulfide and ammonia
- Improves the buffering capacity of sediments through formation of calcite which can buffer lowered pH produced from organic matter decomposition
- Safe for aquatic life with no known detrimental impacts to aquatic biota.
It is commonly used in lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and golf course water features for sediment reduction, nutrient control, and water quality improvement.
- How does SchlixX Plus work to reduce organic sediment and improve water quality?
SchlixX Plus works through a chemical and biological reaction:
- Breaks down organic sludge by releasing oxygen, which stimulates aerobic microbial bacteria which are more effective at decomposing organic matter than anerobic bacteria.
- Binds phosphorus that is released through organic matter decomposition, limiting nutrients that fuel algae and unwanted plant growth.
- Improves oxygen levels in sediment layers, allowing beneficial bacteria to decompose muck more effectively.
- Improves the buffering capacity of the sediments to allow further decomposition of organic matter and prevent acidic conditions whilst organic matter is decomposed.
Over time, this reduces organic buildup, restores natural lake depth, and improves overall water clarity.
- How does the product bind phosphorus, and what impact does this have on nutrient balance?
SchlixX Plus contains compounds that chemically bind free phosphorus by the formation of apatite. This prevents phosphorus from being available to algae and aquatic plants, leading to:
- Reduced algae blooms and harmful cyanobacteria growth.
- Improved water clarity and reduced turbidity.
- Better balance of aquatic ecosystems, promoting healthier aquatic fish populations.
In addition to binding Phosphorus, SchlixX Plus helps restore long-term C-N-P ratio.
- Is SchlixX Plus safe for fish, plants and wildlife?
Yes! SchlixX Plus is non-toxic to fish, plants and wildlife when applied as directed. It is a mineral formulation with added bacteria that are naturally found in the environment and does not contain harsh chemicals that could harm aquatic life.
- Fish & Wildlife: Safe for all aquatic species, including game fish and amphibians.
- Plants: Does not harm aquatic plants or directly control algae.
Always follow recommended application rates to ensure environmental safety.
- Why should we choose SchlixX Plus over competitors?
SchlixX Plus stands out because of its dual-action formula, which not only aids muck degredation but also binds phosphorus that is released during organic muck breakdown, offering a comprehensive, all-in-one approach to water quality management.
✅ Works in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions – effective even in deep, low-oxygen environments.
✅ No aeration required – unlike some products that need added oxygen.
✅ Long-lasting effects – reduces the need for frequent reapplications.
✅ Environmentally safe – does not contain harmful chemicals.
This makes it a superior solution for long-term pond and lake health compared to many competing products.