7 inches square, each pad treats 700 gallons, 4 months. 3 pads per pack
New Lavender Pond Pads have been developed as a result of further research by the Centre for Aquatic Plant Management. It was discovered that lavender could be more effective as a natural algaecide than barley straw but needed more oxygen to break down. Green Ways have combined the benefits of the two plant materials into their New Lavender Pads but recommend that the pads are only used where there is a pumped system to ensure sufficient quantities of oxygen in the water.
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. Research over fifteen years at the Centre for Aquatic Plant Management, an outstation of The Institute of Arable Crop Research at Long Ashton, has proved the effectiveness of barley straw in keeping pond water clear.
Pond Pads and Pond Strip have been developed to provide a natural, chemical free solution to clarity in ponds. Made from a matting of barley straw and natural cotton netting, Pond Pads have a large surface area allowing easy access of water and oxygen to the straw and free release of natural compounds. Since they are cut from a wide sheet of matting, there are many open ends of straw all round the edges of each Pond Pad which allows water to penetrate into the hollow stems, greatly speeding the breakdown process. Soluble carbohydrates released from the surface of the straw act on the monocellular green water algae causing them to clump together (flocculate) and sink to the bottom of the pond. In this way green water is often cleared in just a few days. Making the best use of the oxygen in water, safe aerobic decomposition is assured and the natural compounds which keep ponds clear are released into the water. The process continues for about six months giving long term protection.
Clear Pond started doing business in 1977. They began operations as consultants and developers of natural based products in the aquaculture industry world wide. In 1978 they were the first company to offer laboratory cultured bacteria and enzymes to hobbyists in the pond and water garden market. Since 1978 their product line, has expanded to include a full range of natural water treatment products, pond filters, barley straw, pond kits, and many other water garden accessories. They specialize in manufacturing and selling a natural and ecologically safe line of water treatment products designed for safety, ease of use and simplicity.
