Algae are not only very diverse in their appearance, but also in their benefits. Some species are used as fertilizer, others are considered poisonous. Algae can be found almost anywhere that is moist, including in irrigation water. What to do?
Are algae in irrigation water harmful?
Algae in irrigation watercan be quite harmful, depending on the type of algae. Cyanobacterium, formerly known as blue-green algae, is poisonous. Food plants can absorb it through irrigation water. Green algae, on the other hand, are considered harmless. However, foul-smelling water does not belong on crops.
Can I use irrigation water with algae in it?
In principle, you can definitely use irrigation water with algae, most types of algae that form in rainwater or watering cans are harmless. However, things are different with blue-green algae. It often multiplies explosively in hot weather, threatening what is known as an algae bloom. Then the green streaks under the surface are clearly visible, the water becomes cloudy and starts to smell bad. So if the water in your rain barrel stinks, you should stop using it for watering.
How do algae get into irrigation water?
Ifsunlight hits water and the water is not germ-free, then algae have the best chance of developing well. It doesn't matter whether this happens in the pool, in the rain barrel, in a pond or in the watering can. The nutrients from the water and the sun are sufficient for algae to form.
How do I get the algae out of my watering can?
You should clean your watering candefinitely without chemicals, otherwise residues can easily get to your (food) plants. Scrubbing algae off stones is quite easy, but it's a bit difficult inside a watering can. Put coarse sand or fine grit into the watering can, add some water and shake the can vigorously. However, you also roughen the surface inside the pot, which makes it easier for new deposits to form. An alternative is cleaning with baking powder or baking soda. You should then rinse the pot thoroughly.
How do I keep my irrigation water algae-free?
To prevent algae from forming in the rain barrel or watering can, they should under no circumstances be left in the blazing sun, but should be given a shady spot. Move the water frequently and clean the rain barrel from time to time. The algae can be easily removed with a scrubber or street broom.
Tip
Algae as fertilizer
Some types of algae make excellent fertilizer. These are usually seaweed and other seaweed. Algae fertilizer is said to stimulate plant growth, improve the soil and ensure a rich harvest. Algae that form in the watering can or rain barrel don't play a big role in this regard, but they usually don't do any harm either.
