Choose the Right Aquatic Weed Killer

Are aquatic weed killers safe for fish?

This is the number one question that pond owners ask before treating weeds in a pond. The answer is yes, but follow the aquatic herbicide label and be sure the pond is well aerated.

Selecting the right pond weed killer is important. You should use a good pond weed identification guide to determine what pond or lake weeds are present. You can then choose the best weed killer for treating the aquatic plant.

Are there different types of aquatic herbicides?

Yes, there are different types of aquatic herbicides. It is essential to understand the various options to make an informed decision. There are two main categories of aquatic herbicides: contact herbicides and systemic herbicides.

Contact herbicides work by directly killing the plant upon contact. They are effective for treating floating or emergent pond weeds on the water surface or along the shoreline. Pond managers spray these herbicides directly onto the targeted plants, causing them to wither and die. Contact herbicides are generally fast-acting and provide immediate results.

The plant absorbs systemic herbicides and then transports them throughout its system killing it to the roots. This type of herbicide is effective for treating submerged weeds or those with extensive root systems. Cattails and water lilies have extensive root systems and are best treated with a systematic aquatic herbicide.

People usually apply systemic herbicides to the water allowing the plants absorb them which gradually kills them over time. They are a more long-term solution and may require multiple applications for complete pond weed control. Systematic aquatic herbicides kill pond weed more slowly than a contact herbicide, but the effect is longer lasting.

Duckweed and water milfoil are difficult to kill so a combination of products may be used. These small plants reproduce so rapidly that both a contact herbicide and systematic herbicide can be used to quickly kill the weeds that the spray contacts and prevent growth of more floating pond weeds in the future.

When selecting an aquatic herbicide, it is crucial to consider the specific weed problem you are facing. Certain aquatic herbicides target specific types of weeds, while others provide a broader spectrum of control.

Always read and follow the instructions on the herbicide label carefully to be sure your application is fish safe.

What is the difference between liquid and granular aquatic herbicides?

Liquid and granular aquatic herbicides are two different forms of herbicides that are used to control weeds in ponds and other aquatic environments. The main difference between the two lies in their physical form and how they are applied.

Liquid herbicides are concentrated and typically require mixing with water. Adding a surfactant helps the chemical to stick to and penetrate the weed. Spray the herbicide directly onto the water surface or exposed plants.

Liquid pond herbicide sprays are effective in targeting submerged weeds and floating plants. Plants easily absorb liquid herbicides yielding quick results.

Granular weed killers are in a solid form of weed killer pellets or small granules. They are typically spread over the water surface or directly onto the targeted weeds. Granular herbicides are effective in controlling emergent and shoreline weeds. They slowly dissolve in water, releasing the herbicide over time.

This allows for a longer-lasting effect and can be beneficial in treating larger areas. Granular or pellet weed killers can be used to prevent growth early in the growing season since they sink to the bottom. This type of lake weed killer is often used when there is a lot of water flow that would dilute a liquid herbicide.

Both liquid and granular herbicides have their advantages and disadvantages. Liquid herbicides are generally easier to apply and provide quicker results, but they may require more frequent applications. Granular herbicides, on the other hand, have a longer-lasting effect but may take longer to show results. The choice between the two depends on the specific weed problem and the desired outcome.

Remember, it is very important to have a pond water aerator running after an aquatic herbicide treatment!