Barley Straw & Barley Straw Extract
Q: I have heard that barley straw will control algae. Is this true? Also I have noticed a product on the market called barley straw extract. Why can’t I just use a bale of barley straw? – Samantha of California
A: Barley Straw has been known for a long time to help in the control of algae. The concept is that as the straw decays, a chemical is released that will reduce algae growth. The problem with using actual Barley Straw is that it takes up to 8 weeks for the straw to decay and begin to work. It also “decays”, which means it puts nutrients back into the pond that will cause future algae growth.
We strongly recommend using an extract (liquid) such as Barley Straw Extract PLUS. The extract is the by product of rotting barley straw. This starts to work on contact instead of having to wait weeks for the straw to decay. It also will not contribute to the nutrient load and is all-natural and safe.
Another great benefit of using the Barley Straw Extract PLUS product is that it contains muck & sludge reducing bacteria.
Filed under: Barley Straw, Water Gardens & Features | Tagged: Algae Control, all natural algae control, baley straw extract, barley, barley bale, barley extract, barley straw
I have small pond(figure8,16″ deep,@500gal) barley extract not working. Very dissatisfied,water green, have pond partially shaded, change filter every couple of days, several small goldfish,two pumps circulated water and airateing it ,any suggestions??
Don,
Planktonic Algae (Green Water), is a good sign that there is quite a bit of nutrients getting into your pond. Also, planktonic algae can replicate very fast so sometimes treating it can show little results.
One question I have for you if you have “several” goldfish. Do you know approximately have many and how big they are? Having too many fish in a 500 gallon pond can definitely be a reason why you are having such a hard time with green water.
Another question, what type of filtration do you have? Is it just a pump in the water? Do you have an external filtration system such as a pressurized filter? Do you have a waterfall or skimmer filter? This would help as well.
If you don’t have a lot of fish and you still cannot get it under control I would highly suggest a UV Filter. They are fantastic for situations like this.
Hope this helps!