Pond Boss Forums AQUATIC VEGETATION Controlling unwanted plants Water temp for 2,4-D application?

I want to apply 2,4-D to my pond this year to control eurasian watermilfoil. I have a couple of questions. What water temperature should apply at? The pond is 6 acres and an average depth of 6' (14' max depth). Around 80% or more of the pond is infested. Should I use granular or liquid formulation? Should I treat the whole pond at one time (worried about low oxygen from decomposition)? Will this treatment produce a kill or just temporary control? I'm new at the pond game, just purchasing the property 2 years ago. Thanks in advance for all advice!

Mark

If your talking about using Navigate witch is a granular 2,4-D then you should wait until the water temps reach the mid 60's. I tried a small area when water temps were around 55 and it didn't do much. Most 2,4-D isn't really good for ponds so try not to use it often if you can help it. I heard that ester or salt based 2,4-D breaks down in the water quicker so you should try to use one with that base.

With any of the Phenoxy herbices it is VERY important to use the proper formulation. For instance if you were to spray ester formulations in your pond you WILL kill fish. The oils in esters will suffocate the fish. For a 2,4-d application to be both safe and effective, the water should be above 60 degrees, you should use an Amine (acid) formulation, or granular. READ THE LABEL before buying or using ANY product, ALL phenoxy ester formulations carry a fish kill warning.