American Pondweed submerged weed with floating leaves

Potamogeton nodosus is a rooted aquatic plant that produces stems up to 6 feet long. These stems are connected to elongated leaves that float at the water surface. Thin leaves also grow along the stem and stay submerged.

It is also known as long leaf pondweed. Other similar weeds within the Potamogeton family are variable leaf pondweed, curly pondweed, sago pondweed, and large leaf pondweed.

You can find American pondweed growing throughout the United States. It can grow in water up to 20 feet deep, if water is clear.

Most spreading and reproduction is done through rhizomes and fragmentation of the stems.

This is a native submerged weed. Pondweed provides shade and cover for fish. Cover is needed by largemouth bass and other species for spawning. Vegetation like this also provides protection for young fish.

As with many pond weeds, there is a difference between weed management and complete kill. Vegetation can be managed by spraying only areas where weeds are not desired.

Early season application of Pond Dye can limit pond weed growth. Dye must be applied before growth begins and maintained throughout the year to be effective.

Existing weed growth can be removed manually with a pond rake. Manual removal be needed multiple times per year.

Grass carp can be used to control pondweed growth. Grass carp can eat 2-3 times their own body weight in vegetation per day!

Aquathol K and Aquathol Super K provide excellent control of American pondweed. This treatment yields quick results. These treatments have no water use restrictions after use.

Sonar provides a long term management solution. Sonar reacts slowly, taking 30-60 days for results. However, this treatment successfully kills to the roots. The entire pond must be treated for success. This treatment option is only for ponds with little or no flow coming into the pond. Sonar AS, Sonar RTU, and Sonar One are all available options.

Propeller provides good control of american pondweed. Noticeable results appear in 1 week after treatment.

Duckweed Destroyer is a great fast-acting, broad spectrum treatment option. This is a great choice if there are multiple weed species needing controlled. Duckweed Destroyer is also great for ponds that have weeds and algae growing in the same area.