Natural Algae Control

In the Middle Ages sheaves of corn were ceremonially thrown into village ponds and wells to ensure the purity of the water. More recently farmers have found, often by accident, that a bale of straw in the farm pond keeps it clear of algae.

According to a paper by Edward Roberts about the Bishop of Winchester's Fishponds in Hampshire (12-15 Century), the fishponds were drained regularly and 'Occasionally, a crop of barley was taken from the dried pond bottom...', which we understand was to help control algae.

Research over twenty years at the Centre for Aquatic Plant Management has proved the effectiveness of barley straw in the control of all forms of algae and many lessons have been learned about the techniques to be used.

Building on this research work, Green Ways have designed and developed a complete range of products, for ponds of all sizes, to bring the benefits of barley straw treatment to all garden ponds in the most convenient, safe and effective way.