Algae

Algae grows in various forms, Filamentous algae is most common, it grows in strings or mats – often on the surface. Planktonic algae causes green water. It is millions of individual cells that cloud together. Chara is a weed-like form of algae. It grows like a carpet along the bottom of the pond. It has a musky odor and feel gritty. Use Cutrine liquid of filamentous and Planktonic, Cutrine granular on Chara. Also see Cide-Kick II.

Cattails and Other Emergent Plants

Emergent plants grow around the perimeter of a pond in shallow water with all or most of their foliage above water. Cattails, Blulrush, Reeds, Purple Loose Strife, Pennywart and Pickeralwood are common emergents. Use Shore Clear for best control.

Pondweeds

The pondweed family has over a dozen varieties with the four shown being the most common. Each of these plants can grow in deeper water – up to 10’ deep in clear water. Sonar, Aquathol Super K and Hydrothol work well to control growth.

Elodea

This plant grows in thick clumps and is usually not a big problem. The leaves are in whorls of three around the stem. It also grows in deeper water like the pondweeds. Komeen is most commonly used to combat Elodea.

Duckweed and Watermeal

Duckweed is hard to control. It forms a thin layer over the surface in calm, wind free ponds. Duckweed will not grow well in moving water so use of a surface aerator will help in controlling growth. For chemical treatment Sonar is the best choice. Often times one Sonar treatment will last for multiple season. Cutrine and a surfactant (see Cide-Kick II) can also be used, but regrowth can occur quickly if application is not done properly.

Waterlilies

While beautiful to look at, waterlilies can become a problem in many ponds. They grow off a large central root system (much like popal trees). Some growth is great for shade and cover for fish, but when let unchecked they will over populate. Use Navigate to control unwanted growth. Shore Clear/AquaPro with surfactant will also work if used after blossoms appear.

Eurasian Milfoil

A very prolific plant! Spreads easily since fragments of plant can reroot and grow. Do not try to remove by raking. Grows very dense making swimming and boating difficult. Sonar or Navigate are best for treatment options.

Other Less Common Weeds:

  • Water Hyacinth
  • Parrot Feather
  • Hydrilla
  • Bladderwort
  • Coontail
  • Naiad

Many states restrict the shipment of EPA registered chemicals into the state. At this time most products that are not EPA registered are not restricted. If you would like Pond Place of Michigan to ship outside our state, please contact the store before ordering to check guidelines.

Treatment Chart

Identifying Aquatic Weeds and Algae - Resources & Blog: Ponds, Seawalls, Fountains, & More - weed_treatment_chart

Identifying Aquatic Weeds and Algae - Resources & Blog: Ponds, Seawalls, Fountains, & More - restrictions_on_water_treatmetns