How Does Barley Straw Extract Work?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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How does it work? Barley straw does not kill existing algae, but

it inhibits the new growth of algae

. The exact mechanism is poorly understood, but it seems that barley straw, when exposed to sunlight and in the presence of oxygen, produces a chemical that inhibits algae growth.

How long does barley straw take to work?

You should start seeing results from physical barley straw from

2-6 weeks if treated in spring/summer

, and 6-8 weeks if treated in autumn/winter. For barley liquid treatments, results will usually be slighter quicker and the concentration of hydrogen peroxide slightly higher.

Why is barley straw extract being banned?

The sale of Barley straw used as a pond algaecide is

under threat

. … When barley straw is sold as a product to control algae in ponds it will be classed as a biocide and will cost manufacturers thousands of pounds to prove it is safe to use, making it just too expensive to continue producing.

How does barley straw clear a pond?

When barley straw

begins to decompose

, it releases chemicals into the water that stunt the growth of algae, if used correctly. The addition of barley to the pond will cause the decomposition of the straw and when this reaches a certain stage, will begin reducing the algae in your pond.

Does barley extract work for ponds?

This powerful liquid barley concentrate works faster and cleaner than barley pellets or barley straw bales. As barley straw slowly ferments or rots, it produces a

natural extract

which has been proven to clear pond water. … Barley Extract is the natural solution to maintaining a clean and healthy pond all year long.

Does barley straw clear green water?

In general, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that barley straw is effective in controlling planktic algae, and

will clarify water that is green from algae

. … Using barley straw in ponds is not known to cause harm to people or to any higher plants or animals.

How can I make my pond water clear?

  1. Maintain a healthy fish population. …
  2. Don’t over-feed your fish. …
  3. Create a proper balance of plants. …
  4. Choose the right size pump for your pond. …
  5. Clean debris from pond before it has a chance to decay. …
  6. Choose proper filtration for your pond.

What is in barley straw extract?

Made from

all natural, organic Barley

, The Pond Digger Brand Barley Straw Extract is highly concentrated and put through a special stabilization process to ensure a fresh and potent product that reacts quickly to keep put your pond’s water quality immaculate.

Is barley straw extract safe for cats?

Barley Straw Extract Keeps Ponds Clear and Algae-Free


Safe for fish, pets and plants

; won’t clog fountain pumps.

How do I get rid of algae in my pond naturally?


Barley straw

is a natural way to fight algae. On contact with water, the straw starts to break down, and as it does so it releases peroxides into the water which combat algae. Available in mini bales, or as a concentrated extract of barley straw liquid, it’s a natural way of chemically fighting algae.

What kills algae in a pond?

For pond algae or lake algae control, we recommend

the copper based algaecide Mizzen®

to help control nearly all types of Planktonic Algae, Filamentus Algae, and Chara. Mizzen® is an EPA approved algaecide that is safe for most fish, however, it is not recommended for use where there are Koi, Trout or Channel Catfish.

Can I put hydrogen peroxide in my pond?

Is hydrogen peroxide safe for pond fish?

Yes

, hydrogen peroxide is safe for fish as long as you follow the instructions and pour it into the pond away from the fish. Hydrogen peroxide is only a temporary solution and continual use can damage the koi’s gills.

Does barley extract remove algae?

Barley straw

does not kill existing algae

, but it inhibits the new growth of algae. … Barley straw does not reduce the growth of other aquatic plants. In fact, in some cases aquatic plant growth has increased after barley straw applications because algae are no longer present to compete with the aquatic plants.

Is barley straw good for fish pond?

Barley Straw bales for ponds are most effective in shallow water with sunlight and good water circulation.

Safe for fish, plants

, pets and pond wildlife. A 1⁄2 pound bale treats up to 500 gallons.

Why does pond smell bad?

Causes of Pond Water Odor

Bad odor is

formed at the bottom of the pond

, in the no-oxygen zone where hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) is created and causes the “rotten egg” smell. Not only does bad sludge build up cause bad odors, but these bad “anaerobic bacteria” also are disease-causing and harmful to fish and animals.

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.