What ingredient can be safely added to the barrel water to kill the bacteria, but not harm the plans when used.
by
Lloyd Beaman
+3
I have constructed 4 rain barrels along the side of my home with 3/4 inch fittings. I have found that the higher off the ground the better water pressure, but even though I strain the water before going into the barrel, still particles and mosquitos get in to contaminate the water.
6 answers
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You can read more than 1 post on this topic by typing "clean rain barrel" into the search area above. Hope this helps.
Dee W
on Jul 30, 2012
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seems like you maybe could use the same thing that you use in ponds. Here is a product that might work for you http://www.biosafesystems.com/industry_RETAIL-IntroPondCare.asp
360 Sod (Donna Dixson)
on Jul 30, 2012
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Mosquito Dunks are plant-safe and will take care of the mosquitoes.
Douglas Hunt
on Jul 31, 2012
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So I did a little research and I am totally impressed with a product called barley balls. It is used for ponds (even with Koi) and can be used safely in your rain barrel. I even have some on order for the nursery. Since you live in Texas though, you might want to check these out on line because the drive might be a little much to Georgia. :) This product combined with the product that Douglas recommended (Mosquito dunk or Mosquito torpedo) will eliminate algae and the mosquitoes. http://www.gardeners.com/Barley----the-Secret-to-Clear-Water/5433,default,pg.html
360 Sod (Donna Dixson)
on Jul 31, 2012
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I have several barrel system and gravity works great on my system,best way is make it sealed off ,my main barrel can be completely drained after it supply's the more sealed barrels .I don't know of any additives but chlorine is out
Allen B
on Jul 31, 2012
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I add a few drops of kerosene to my 55 gal. barrels, each time it rains {ONLY a few drops!!} to get rid of the mosquitoes.
Gloria S
on Aug 01, 2012
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