Control Bulrush

Bulrushes are hearty plants with strong root systems, making them tough to get rid of completely. The following options can be considered for how to control bulrush.

Click here to read more about identifying this plant.

Manual/Mechanical Control:

If you are considering how to remove bulrush, physically cutting the stems down and then digging up the roots can be a somewhat effective method of control. The roots must be dug up, or the bulrushes will be inclined to grow back more vigorously. Physical control can be difficult because bulrushes can re-grow from any seeds or roots remaining in the area.

Herbicide Control:

The following option will offer some control when looking for how to kill bulrush.

• Cattail and Water Lily Control (Imox + surfactant) (for ponds or lakes) – liquids that are mixed and diluted with water and sprayed directly on the entire exposed plants.

Treatment Tips:

• Do not cut or burn bulrushes because these plants are very resilient and will often come back with more life.
• With Imox or other systemic herbicides, treatment is most effective when the plants are mature or close to full grown. This allows for more plant surface to spray enough mixture on.
  • Treat in late summer to early fall to get better kill of the root systems. At this time, plants are pulling energy into their roots to store for the winter.
  • Two treatments will likely be necessary.