How to Remove Nitrogen from Water with Plants

Many bodies of water, both natural and manmade, have become severely polluted with nitrogen due to human activities such as agricultural runoff, sewage treatment, and industrial discharges. Excessive nitrogen in water can cause harmful algae blooms, decreased oxygen levels, and negatively impact aquatic life. However, there is an eco-friendly solution to removing nitrogen from water – using plants!

The Basics of Nitrogen Removal

The process of removing nitrogen from water with plants is known as phytoremediation. It involves using plants to absorb and metabolize nitrogen compounds, converting them into harmless substances or releasing them back into the atmosphere.

Phytoremediation can be done through two main methods:

Constructed wetlands – these are engineered systems consisting of gravel and sand layers with various water-tolerant plants growing on top, where water is directed and allowed to flow through.

Bioreactors – these are artificial systems that mimic the wetland environment, containing plants grown hydroponically in water or soil-less mediums.

What Plants are Ideal for Phytoremediation?

Some plants are more efficient in absorbing and metabolizing nitrogen compounds than others. The ideal plants for phytoremediation are those that have:

Large roots to absorb nutrients and water from the water source

A high nitrogen metabolism rate

A deep root structure to reach the nitrogen compounds in the water

Tolerance to standing water, as they can grow in areas with high water levels.

Some examples of phytoremediating plants include:

Cattails

Reed canary grass

Duckweed

Pickerelweed

Wildflower meadow mixtures

Benefits of Phytoremediation

Phytoremediation provides several benefits when it comes to removing nitrogen from water:

It is an eco-friendly and sustainable solution that eliminates the need for chemical treatment of water, which can have toxic byproducts.

It reduces nitrogen concentrations in water, which can help prevent harmful algae blooms, protect aquatic life, and improve water quality.

It can be less expensive than other treatment methods, such as mechanical aeration, sand filters, and chemical treatments.

Conclusion

Removing nitrogen from water is crucial for maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. Phytoremediation is a sustainable and cost-effective way to reduce nitrogen concentrations in water bodies. By using plants that are efficient in absorbing and metabolizing nitrogen compounds, we can protect our water sources and improve their quality for the benefit of all life that depends on them