Algae Control: The Pros and Cons of Using Barley Straw in a Pond

This is how most pond owners discover barley straw. The pond turns green overnight. Fish are just swimming along happily but nobody can see the bottom. Then there's a hunt around for something "natural," and barley straw pond treatment comes up everywhere.

It's just too good to be true. A bundle of straw is chucked into the water. No chemicals or anything. And the algae just magically disperses. Well, it is quite enticing, especially if you're not in favor of using drastic measures.

But the question is, "Does barley straw really solve the algae problem in ponds?" And the simple answer to this question is, "Yes, but not in the manner most believe." Barley straw does not solve pond algae problems in a matter of time. Barley straw does not kill algae directly.

In this article, the usage of barley straw, the beneficial applications of barley straw, the limitations of barley straw application in ponds, and how barley straw should be applied in ponds will be discussed.

How is Barley Straw Effective in the Pond?

Barley straw is also called an algae killer, although that is not a correct description. Barley straw is not an algicide, which is a product that kills algae upon contact. The process is much more gradual.

As soon as the barley straw is put into the water, the process of decomposition begins, caused by the action of certain bacteria. Because of the decomposition, a small amount of hydrogen peroxide is produced in the water. The amount is small, which won't have any effect on fish but will degrade algal cells.

This explains why it is always recommended that you use barley straw for algae control. Barley straw will slow down the rate at which algae reproduces, but it will not kill it. In most cases, it will take four to eight weeks for it to be fully effective. Sometimes, it can take longer if it is used in cold water.

Its effectiveness is in treating suspended algae, which gives water a greenish appearance. It is not effective in treating either string algae or algae already established in the ponds. Adding barley straw to ponds already filled with algae mats will be ineffective.

For more information about how science is involved in this process, please click [here].

Pros and Cons of Using Barley Straw in Pond Management

Pros:

• Barley for ponds may still be a popular choice because it is safe. Barley straw is safe around fish and beneficial bacteria, as long as it is properly used. It also won't shock the pond environment as some chemicals may.
• It is easy to implement. There is no need to measure liquid quantities or repeat the treatment every few days. After adding the barley straw to the water, the treatment occurs in the background.

Cons:

• The treatment is not quick. This is the reason why it will necessarily be disappointing if used in a pond already filled with algae.
• Using more straw does not improve performance. Too much organic material can boost nutrient levels (algae food), especially in poorly circulating ponds. Small ponds can be adversely affected by too much of the material.
• Barley straw requires oxygen to decompose effectively. In still ponds, it will be less effective.

How to Use Barley Straw in Ponds Correctly

Correct use is where most success, or most failure, occurs.

Barley straw should be added at the beginning of the season, or better yet, in the spring before the algae reach their peak levels. Water temperatures of more than 50°F (10°C) are required for the breakdown process to commence.

Follow these steps for best results:

1. Use a mesh bag or fishing net. The straw should never be deposited loose in a pond. Place it inside a mesh bag or a fishing net.
2. Position it in moving water. The straw should be located in a spot where there is moving water and oxygen levels are higher. Barley straw responds better to moving water.
3. Use the correct dosage. Use 25 to 50 grams of barley straw per 1,000 liters of water. Beyond that quantity will not help increase the effect.
4. Ensure good circulation. Otherwise, the beneficial compounds created through decomposition won't be properly distributed. This is why some pond owners add barley straw along with gentle filtration or aeration. A small circulation system like the 20W 280GPH Solar Pond Filter Fountain by Poposoap is essential in ensuring that the water keeps moving.

Barley straw is most effective in ponds that are already being maintained properly. This includes proper feeding, shade, and filtration.

Conclusion: Barley Straw as Part of Integrated Pond Management

Barley straw can be a helpful aid in the control of algae, but it is only effective with reasonable expectations. Barley straw does not eliminate algae overnight. It won't turn around a neglected pond.

Rather, the use of barley straw should be considered in the context of pond management. When used in conjunction with pond circulation, filtration, and control of pond nutrients, it will help manage algae growth.

If algae continues to plague your pond, it may be time to consider other solutions. For more information on pond solutions, check out this comprehensive guide: Controlling Pond Algae - Tips and Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barley Straw Safe with Fish?

Yes, if used within recommended levels. It does not release dangerous levels of chemicals.

Will the barley straw be able to eliminate the algae that already exists?

No. Its main purpose is to stop the growth of algae, but not remove the existing algae.

Is barley straw effective in cold water?

It becomes less effective in cold temperatures since the decomposition process is slowed.

Is it possible to use barley straw along with other algae treatment methods?

However, it should not be used together with strong chemical algicide agents.