Clean a Bird Bath Effortlessly Using Copper Pennies: Discover a Straightforward Method for Sanitizing a Bird Bath and Learn Why This Trick Can Benefit Your Avian Haven
In the quest to maintain a bird-friendly garden, a surprising ally has emerged: copper pennies. These small coins, when placed in bird baths, can help inhibit the growth of algae, keeping the water clean and inviting for our feathered friends.
Copper ions leached from pre-1982 pennies (in the US) or pre-1992 UK pennies create a chemical barrier that prevents algae from building up. This is due to the weakening effect of copper on algal membranes, causing them to collapse and fail.
To make the most of this natural algae control method, it's essential to clean the copper pennies thoroughly before adding them to the bird bath. A mixture of white vinegar, salt, and lemon juice, or lemon juice with a little baking soda, can be used to scrub the coins with an old toothbrush. After scrubbing, rinse the pennies well and allow them to dry until they shine.
Regular maintenance of the bird bath itself is also crucial. Remove debris such as leaves and feathers at least once a week, and more often in hot weather. For deeper cleaning, use a mild bird-safe solution such as white vinegar and water or a mild dish soap (like Dawn). Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can be toxic to birds and wildlife.
Once the bird bath is cleaned and filled with fresh water, add the cleaned copper pennies. The copper ions slowly released will inhibit algae and slime growth, helping to keep the water clearer for longer periods.
In addition to copper pennies, other maintenance tips include placing the bird bath in partial shade to naturally slow algae growth, changing the water regularly, adding a small solar fountain or dripper to encourage water movement, and surrounding the bird bath with native plants and providing nearby perches or cover to attract more birds.
One or two copper pennies are enough to make an impact. The bird bath cleaner works similarly to the copper penny trick for water purification.
Janey Goulding, a former assistant editor of Amateur Gardening and current writer and editor for GardeningEtc and Homes & Gardens, is a proponent of this method. She has participated in conservation and rewilding projects for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV). Currently, she is undertaking her RHS Level 2 certificate in The Principles of Plant Growth and Development.
However, it's important to note that post-1982 pennies are mostly zinc and should not be used in bird baths as they can be toxic if ingested in large quantities by birds. It's also crucial to check for any signs of rust and safeguard against rust being dipped into the water, as small garden birds like songbirds are especially sensitive to chemical imbalances in water.
By following this routine, you can ensure your bird bath remains a healthy, inviting water source for birds, with copper pennies assisting in natural algae control without the risks of chemical cleaners. Take advantage of the Amazon Prime Day event, which offers bird-friendly deals on gardening products, including a bird bath cleaner, until July 11. Happy gardening!
In the realm of personal growth and home maintenance, utilizing copper pennies in a bird bath serves a dual purpose –not only does it assist in the natural control of algae growth, but it also promotes a bird-friendly lifestyle. A cleaning solution made from white vinegar, salt, lemon juice, or a combination of lemon juice and baking soda is effective in preparing the pennies for use in the bird bath. Regular bird bath maintenance, such as cleaning, debris removal, and changing the water, ensures a healthy and inviting environment for our avian companions. To enhance the bird bath's effectiveness, consider placing it in partial shade, adding a small solar fountain or dripper, and surrounding it with native plants.
Incorporating this simple coppers-in-the-bird-bath technique into your shopping list comes with the added benefit of supporting a wildlife-friendly lifestyle. Be mindful to use only pre-1982 US or pre-1992 UK pennies, as post-1982 pennies are mostly zinc and may be toxic if ingested. Maintaining a consistent routine and investing in bird-safe products, such as a bird bath cleaner, found during sales events like Amazon Prime Day, will help you contribute positively to the conservation of bird habitats and promote a bird-friendly lifestyle.
