Are you fed up with your pond because it is full of unsightly string or hair algae? Farmers have had the solution to this problem for hundreds of years. They toss Barley bales into their dug outs, streams, and irrigation ponds to keep them clear all summer long. Finally, we have Barley Straw algae control formulas that are designed for backyard ponds and water gardens. I would like to talk about what Barley Straw algae control is, how is works, and why we should use it.

How Does Barley Straw Work?

Unsightly string or hair algae is actually a branching form of algae that can clog filters, block light from reaching decorative plants and rob oxygen from the water at night.

As Barley Straw breaks down in the water, it releases a phenolic compound that is similar to hydrogen peroxide.

This compound appears to work in two ways:

1. It acts as a natural herbicide to prevent the growth of algae.

2. It breaks the bond between algae cells causing it to become free floating so that it can be removed by filtration.

Hair and string algae are easy to control in your pond or stream with the simple addition of Barley Straw. Another great benefit of this algae control method, is that it is environmentally friendly and will not harm pets or wildlife.

When is it time to add Barley Straw to my pond?

One of the major benefits of Barley Straw is that it stops the algae before it starts. As soon as your pond is up and running, it is time to start adding your Barley formula.

In Canada, pond season is kicked off when the pond water temperature averages 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit. To control pond algae all season, you will continue to add your Barley formulas at regular intervals.

How do I use Barley Straw?

There are 3 formulations available:

Concentrated Liquid – For Concentrated Liquid add 10ml per 100 gallons two times weekly for the first two weeks, then 10ml per 100 gallons weekly as a maintenance dose for the rest of the year.

Concentrated Pellets – For Concentrated Pellets place 1lb for every 500 gallons in a mesh bag in an area of moderate water flow. Replace the pellets every 3 months

Loose Straw – For Loose Straw place 1lb for every 1000 gallons of pond water in a mesh bag in an area of moderate water flow. Replace the straw every 2 months.

How fast does it work?

While liquid additives require a little more work to remain effective, they are the most active form of Barley and will begin to work almost immediately. Pellets and straw will take up to 6 weeks to reach effectiveness in water temperatures of 10-15 Celsius.

The best approach to keeping clear pond water all season is to be proactive and treat the pond as soon as it is running in the spring. As well, keep the beneficial bacteria abundant throughout the season. There are many other quality additives and filtration options that you can use to keep your pond clear and your fish and plants thriving. We would be pleased to show and explain to you all the water additives available for your pond.