Barley Straw Revealed
Pond barley straw is an all natural approach that is safer for fish then algaecide, to control of string algae. But how does it work? To uncover the reason barley is used in pond we first must recount a circling folk story surround its discovery.
It is told that on one warm summer day, a bale of barley straw fell into a pond owned by a farmer in Scotland. Several weeks go by, and the farmer noticed that there was less string algae in the pond then usual. Somehow, the farmer’s accidental discovery made its way to England’s Center for Aquatic Plant Management. After investigating and much testing, the studies confirmed that barley straw does stop the growth of forms of algae.
Barley straw has taken several forms in recent years. Most well know for it bale like shape, it also comes in pellets and extract forms. Bales, usually small, are placed in area where water flows to begin a 30 day rotting process in warm water. Often preventive bales have received limiting results and are for the most patient pond owners who think about such things months in advance. Pellets, much like bales, are also placed in the water flow, but begin working in a matter of weeks not months. Hence, the development of barley extracts the most potent of the barley family and works immediately.
Barley extract is a proven natural water treatment for pond in the prevention of string algae. Not a fast as an algaecide, but safer, extract begins working right away. Beware. Not all barley extract is created equal. Much like food it can be diluted. Be sure to compare doses and ounces before purchasing.
So how does barley straw work? The simplest explanation is that barley is a natural form of hydrogen peroxide. Yes, when barley rots it gives off this same chemical which prohibits lower life, such as algae from growing successfully. Only difference is that barley will stay in the system longer. Really the doses of bale are so low compared to extract it is amazing that they still sell. One ounce of barley can be equivalent to pounds of barley straw without the wait for rotting. But remember barley extract needs to be added every 10 days for maximum effectiveness.
The barley extract is the best natural choice for ridding your pond of string algae without putting your fish at risk with chemicals.
Platinum Ponds designs, installs, & services ponds in Greenville, Spartanburg, Asheville, Columbia, Charlotte & Atlanta in Upstate South Carolina. For more information or service visit our website at http://www.PlatinumPonds.com/services.html
