It can be annoying that your bird bath is always green with algae after you’ve made it a bird sanctuary in your backyard. The easiest way to fix this is to follow these four suggestions, which will stop algae from growing in your bath in the first place. I’ll talk about how to use apple cider vinegar in bird baths correctly and give you some other tips to keep your bird bath clean.
Having a bird bath in your backyard is a great way to attract birds and provide them with a reliable water source. However, dealing with algae growth can be a frustrating issue for bird bath owners. Not only is algae unsightly, but it can also make the water unpleasant and unsafe for visiting birds.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore several effective methods for keeping algae under control in your bird bath, so you can enjoy watching birds splash around in clean water.
Why Does Algae Grow in Bird Baths?
Algae are plant-like organisms that grow in damp places where sunlight is available. Bird baths provide ideal growing conditions for algae – stagnant water, nutrients from bird droppings, and exposure to sun.
Green algae in particular thrive in these small, contained bodies of water. Without any natural predators algae can spread quickly to form thick, slimy mats across the surface of the water.
While not inherently harmful, too much algae can make a bird bath unappealing and unsanitary for visiting birds. Plus, it just doesn’t look very nice! So taking measures to control algae is important for maintaining a clean, healthy bird bath.
Effective Ways to Prevent Algae Growth
Here are some simple yet effective solutions for keeping algae at bay in your backyard bird bath:
1. Use a Water Circulation System
Water circulation systems like fountains or aerators help prevent algae by keeping the water moving The agitation makes it harder for algae to establish themselves on the surface Adding a solar-powered fountain or bubbler is an easy way to get circulation going,
2. Change the Water Frequently
Refreshing the water every 2-3 days denies algae the time needed to spread. This quick fix takes only a minute and is key for hot summer months when algae grow faster.
3. Clean with Vinegar
White vinegar safely kills algae and slows regrowth. Periodically scrubbing the basin with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution helps control algae between full cleanings. Rinse well afterward.
4. Use a Bird Bath Cleaner
Specialty bird bath cleaning solutions are formulated to kill existing algae and prevent its return. Look for an EPA-registered algaecide made specifically for bird baths and safe for birds.
5. Add a Drop of Bleach
Adding 1 teaspoon of plain bleach per gallon of water prevents algae without harming birds. Be sure to only use plain bleach without scents or soaps. Rinse the bath well before refilling.
6. Use Hydrogen Peroxide
As an oxidizing agent, hydrogen peroxide effectively kills algae upon contact. Spray full-strength hydrogen peroxide directly onto visible algae Rinse thoroughly afterward.
7. Scrub Often
A good scrubbing with a stiff brush helps remove established algae. Scrub the basin weekly or more with hot, soapy water. This also takes care of any organic buildup.
8. Apply Lemons
Rubbing lemon halves over the surfaces of a bird bath introduces antibacterial citric acid, inhibiting algal growth. Rinse away pulp and seeds before refilling.
9. Block Sunlight
Prevent abundant sunlight from fueling algae growth by placing your birdbath in partial shade. Keep it under a tree or use a shade hood to limit direct sunlight.
10. Add Copper
Copper releases ions that are naturally toxic to algae. Add a few pre-1982 copper pennies to the bottom of your birdbath’s basin. The copper will help suppress algae growth.
11. Use Rubbing Alcohol
Wiping down the bird bath weekly with 70% isopropyl alcohol kills existing algae via dehydration and makes conditions less hospitable to new growth. Just rinse after using.
When to Call in Reinforcements
For serious recurring algae issues, consider seeking professional help. Many pool maintenance companies offer bird bath cleaning services to tackle stubborn algae with commercial-grade algaecides.
Bringing in the experts for an occasional deep clean when other methods fail can get your bird bath back into shape. Then maintain that algae-free status using the simple daily and weekly prevention techniques outlined above.
Avoid Toxic Algaecides
When exploring algae solutions, steer clear of any algaecides containing copper sulfate. The level of copper in these products can be toxic to birds. Opt for a bird-safe algaecide or alternative natural method.
The Reward – Happy Birds!
A bit of regular care will keep your bird bath algae-free and ready for visiting birds. Then you can relax and enjoy watching birds bathe while providing them with a healthy water source. Listening to songbirds splash as you sip your morning coffee is worth the effort!
Implementing a consistent algae prevention strategy, along with promptly addressing any growth, will help you win the battle against bird bath algae. Use these tips to keep your bird bath clean, safe, and ready for the birds!
Change Water Often
Algae is caused by spores from nearby shrubbery and surroundings. Every two to four days, change the water in the bath and add fresh water. This will get rid of the source of age spores.
This will also keep the water cooler and the bacteria count lower. Birds hate a dirty water source so having fresh water will attract more to the bath as well.
Also, changing the water often will get rid of mosquito larvae that could carry the West Nile Virus, which is bad for both people and birds.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good For Preventing Algae In Bird Baths?
Yes, apple cider vinegar (ACV) that has been diluted is a great natural way to get rid of algae in your bird bath. The higher pH value of the ACV makes it too acidic for algae to grow.
The typically suggested ratio is 1 tsp ACV per gallon of water.
3 Ways To Keep Algae From Growing In Bird Bath
FAQ
Do copper pennies prevent algae?
How to stop algae from growing in a bird bath?
What kills algae but is safe for birds?
How do you keep algae from growing in a bird bath?
Sun feeds the growth of algae. Algae survives on photosynthesis so if you cut down on its food source, you’ll have less growth. Placing your bird bath in the shade will also keep the water cooler and minimize water evaporation. 2. Change Water Often Algae is caused by spores from nearby shrubbery and surroundings.
Can algae grow in a birdbath?
The existence of algae in a birdbath is common, especially since algae spores can be transferred or deposited into your birdbath by the wind, bird feet, or even from nearby trees. To prevent algae from growing in your birdbath, you need remove algae when you see it by cleaning your bird bath regularly.
How to keep a bird bath clean?
Give it a proper clean! Soaking the bird bath in vinegar will help to kill any algae that may have found its way in. Keeping a bird bath clean is a task all by itself but it becomes even more difficult when there is algae present. Although the algae won’t harm the birds, it makes the water unattractive to them and so they won’t visit your garden.
Can birds eat algae in a bird bath?
Algae in a bird bath are rarely harmful to birds. However, you’ll find that birds will start to avoid your bird bath with more and more algae growth. That’s because algae start to take all the nutrients from the bath water. Algae water also doesn’t taste nice for birds.