Rain Barrel - Need Help

[lisa's lillies]

I have a 55 gallon drum that I catch rainwater from my shed's gutter. The problem is that algae keeps growing in it. Is is safe to add bleach to it and will it harm my lilies? I'm getting tired of turning it over and dumping it out. Ideas Suggestions - Welcomed!

[Janie2004]

Hi Lisa.
I don't know, but I don't think algae will hurt your plants as much as bleach would???

Do you keep a lid on the barrel?
If not, it can be a place where mosquitos hatch!

Rain water is GREAT for you plants, including your house plants.

You might ask at a garden center about the algae and bleach.
Sincerely, Janie :lol:

[Newt]

Hi Lisa,
I wouldn't recommend the bleach as it's bad for the soil and organisms in the soil. Best to get a couple of goldfish or suckerfish from a pet store or keep the rainbarrel covered to keep out the algae.

You might find this conversation interesting.
http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/l...0173033.html?9

Newt