3 Steps to Control Cattails in Your Backyard Pond
Cattails can be an attractive addition to a pond, but even if you like how they look, they can become a nuisance. Because their extensive root systems produce thickets of new stalks, they spread quickly and can easily take over your pond. Here’s how to keep them at bay.
Tips for Controlling Cattails in a Pond
1. Identification
A mature cattail is easy to spot because of the hotdog-like catkin or seedhead on the stalk. This structure is green when it first forms and darkens to a brown in the fall. They will eventually sprout cottony seeds, causing them to spread. Because you don’t want them to reach this point, it’s crucial to identify them while they’re young.
2. Excavation
The rhizome is the underground root-like structure that the new stalks spring from. Because it stores a lot of energy and reaches far underground, cutting the cattails won’t be enough to get rid of them, as the rhizome will still grow new stalks. To prevent future growth, you’ll need to have professionals dig up the rhizomes. They will dig deep and far enough from the stalks to ensure they get the entire root and will inspect the area thoroughly to ensure all parts are removed, preventing them from growing back.
3. Herbicide
For ponds that have extensive networks of cattails, digging them up may not be practical because of how far the rhizomes have spread. In these cases, have a professional use a safe herbicide (a poison used to get rid of plants) to kill off these stubborn plants. The herbicide will be sprayed directly on the cattails. Then, they’ll be left for a month to absorb the poison. Next, they’ll be cut using underwater cutters, and the pieces will be removed from the water using pitchforks.
When you need help getting rid of cattails, contact Clearly Aquatics. Serving Ontario County, NY, they have over 15 years of experience caring for backyard ponds, including curbing unwanted plants. They are committed to offering quick and accurate work. To get started, call (585) 657-7679. Visit them online to learn more about their services.
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