Microbe-Lift Barley Straw Pellets are a natural, organic pond treatment that suppresses algae and clarifies water without harsh chemicals. As barley straw decomposes in the presence of sunlight and oxygen, it produces hydrogen peroxide — a natural oxidizing agent that inhibits algae growth and softens water chemistry. The pellets are enriched with organic peat and humic acids, which buffer pH, reduce nitrates and phosphates, and support a balanced aquatic ecosystem.
How It Works
Microbial decomposition of barley straw releases humic acids and hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide acts as a natural oxidizer that suppresses algae without harming fish or plants
Organic peat buffers pH and matures pond water chemistry
Nitrate & phosphate reduction removes key algae nutrients from the water column
Key Benefits
Naturally clarifies cloudy, green, or turbid pond water
Buffers and stabilizes pH levels
Reduces nitrates and phosphates
Safe for fish, plants, and wildlife
Works year-round — apply in any season
Fast-dispersing pellet format for easy, mess-free application
Who It's For
Ideal for pond owners, water gardeners, and aquaculture managers dealing with algae blooms, cloudy water, or unstable water chemistry. Suitable for decorative ponds, koi ponds, water gardens, and small lakes up to several acres.
Application Rates — Pond & Water Feature (Apply Every 6 Weeks)
Pond Size (Gallons)
Clear Water (oz / mL)
Turbid Water (oz / mL)
80
2 oz / 70 mL
4 oz / 140 mL
100
3 oz / 90 mL
6 oz / 180 mL
150
4 oz / 130 mL
8 oz / 260 mL
200
6 oz / 175 mL
12 oz / 350 mL
300
9 oz / 260 mL
18 oz / 520 mL
400
12 oz / 350 mL
24 oz / 700 mL
500
15 oz / 425 mL
30 oz / 850 mL
600
18 oz / 525 mL
35 oz / 1,000 mL
700
21 oz / 600 mL
40 oz / 1,200 mL
800
24 oz / 700 mL
48 oz / 1,400 mL
1,000
30 oz / 870 mL
60 oz / 1,750 mL
Coverage by Bag Size
2.2 lb — treats up to 400 gallons for 8 months
4.4 lb — treats up to 800 gallons for 8 months
10.5 lb — treats up to 2,500 gallons for 6 months
Application Rates — Ponds & Lakes (Apply Every 3 Months)
0.25 acre — 30 lbs
0.50 acre — 60 lbs
0.75 acre — 90 lbs
1.0 acre — 120 lbs
2.0 acres — 240 lbs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for fish and aquatic plants? Yes. Microbe-Lift Barley Straw Pellets are safe for fish, koi, aquatic plants, and wildlife when used as directed.
When will I see results? Results typically appear within 2–4 weeks as microbial decomposition begins. Consistent reapplication every 6 weeks maintains clarity.
Can I use it in winter? Yes — the product is effective year-round, including cold-water conditions.
Will it leave residue? A small organic residual may settle on the pond bottom. This is digested naturally by Microbe-Lift bacteria or can be addressed with Microbe-Lift Sludge Away.
What is the active mechanism? Decomposing barley straw produces hydrogen peroxide and humic acids that inhibit algae cell growth — a process well-documented in aquatic science literature.
RMBA is committed to provide natural and organic products that support healthy soils. Even if a product is not listed as 'organic' you can rest assured that it will help, not hurt your soil.
Mixed to standard recommendation and after 12 days, dandelions browned but still growing. I will reapply, but so far, I am not impressed compared to Ground clear (w/glyphosate).
Hello Andrew, thank you for your review and for giving Finalsan a try.
It is helpful to note how Finalsan operates compared to synthetic, systemic options like glyphosate (Ground Clear). Finalsan is an organic, contact-only herbicide made from ammoniated soap of fatty acids. It works by rapidly stripping the plant’s waxy cuticle to dehydrate the foliage. Because it is a contact spray and does not translocate to the roots, tough, deep-rooted perennials like mature dandelions may attempt to push new growth back up.
There are three rates of application. I would suggest using the highest rate and thoroughly coat the weeds to drip off. Finalsan is a weed and grass eater so something has to be off in the application rates, or amounts applied to the weeds. Finalsan is very effective.
Reapplying to starve the root system of energy is definitely the correct next step. We appreciate your patience as you transition to an organic approach, and our team is always here if you want to discuss application tips to get the most out of your spray!
I spot spray dandelions with it and they are gone within a few days. I like there is no herbicide odor to it.
Hello Rob, thank you for the fantastic 5-star review!
We are thrilled to hear that Fiesta Turf Herbicide is making quick work of those dandelions and that you appreciate the clean, odor-free application. It is one of our favorite things about this selective iron-based formula, you get powerful spot-spray results without the harsh chemical smells of traditional herbicides.
It works!!! I use 5 oz. to the gallon for dandelions, but 6-7 for other weeds that are more resistant such as Japanese clover and thistle. It drys quickly and is safe for our pets.
Hello Catherine, thank you for the wonderful 5-star review! It is great to hear that Fiesta Turf Herbicide is working so well for you and keeping your lawn pet-safe. We appreciate you sharing your specific dilution tips for handling tougher weeds like thistles and dandelions—that is incredibly helpful for the community. Thank you for your support and happy growing!
Hello Chris, thank you for the 5-star review! We are glad to hear you are having great results with Finalsan Weed Killer. We appreciate your business and support!
