BARLEY STRAW BASICS

HOW BARLEY STRAW WORKS:

The decomposition of barley straw in water produces an enzyme compound that does not directly kill the existing algae, but does inhibit the growth of new algae cells.

As the old algae cells die off, fewer new algae cells will be produced as long as the enzyme from the decomposing barley straw is present. This process is usually described as being algistatic (prevents new growth of algae) rather than algicidal (kills already existing algae).

For the barley straw to decompose, it needs a certain amount of oxygen in the water, and thus it should be applied near the water surace, where some type of water movement is present. In most cases, water clarity will improve over time and that is due to reduction in algae populations.

Please note: In stagnant, totally non-moving water, barley straw may not be effective.

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANTAGES OF USING BARLEY STRAW:

While barley straw does produce an enzyme that helps to inhibit the regrowth of algae in water, it's natural process of decomposition is not unlike that of any other decomposing plant. The use of barley straw has not resulted in any documented ill effects to fish, waterfowl, animals or humans.

Thus, to present, the use of barley straw to inhibit the regowth of algae is the only known all-natural method available.

At Eastern Sierra Commodities, Ltd. we have had great success with this method. We are happy to assist you & your team with its implementation.