How to Control Emergent Weeds

Emergent plants have roots anchored in the lake bottom or pond bed that support stems growing up out of the water.  Some emergent plants, such as cattails and phragmites, are reeds. Other emergent plants are broadleaf perennials. Arrowhead and pickerelweed are broadleaf emergent plants whose leaves stand erect above the water. Water lilies and water shield are broadleaf emergent plants with leaves that lay flat on the water’s surface and flowers that bloom in the summer.

Manual/ Mechanical Control:

Emergent plants can be effectively removed manually or mechanically if the entire rhizome, or root system, is removed from the pond or lake shore. Attempting to cut or mow the plants will be successful in the short term, but regrowth (sometimes more), will likely occur.

Herbicide Control:

There are many types of emergent plants, but most can be controlled with a broad-spectrum ALS-inhibiting herbicide such as Imox herbicide. For best results, pair this herbicide with a surfactant (sticking agent that helps break down the outer waxy coating of the plants so the herbicide is better absorbed). Keep scrolling to see our recommended products.