Pond Boss Forums AQUATIC VEGETATION Controlling unwanted plants Controling Cattails

"Use herbacide if you must, but please as an absolute last resort."

JW: Granted, there are several options - besides herbicides - for managing unwanted aquatic plants (aka "weeds"). However, I believe that herbicides should rarely be considered a "last resort" option.

A herbicide's predictable impact on a large, out-of-control plant population may sometimes cause more net-damage than benefit, as could virtually any remedial action that produces a rapid and drastic alteration in an aquatic ecosystem.

Aquatic herbicides are a safe and viable plant management tool (option) in the hands of experienced, knowledgeable applicators - or under the guidance of same. However, even I question their appropriateness in some "last resort" situations.

Kelly,

Ok, "last resort" did not accurately convey my thoughts. I think that people have lost patience and tend to want whatever will give them the quickest or cheapest resolution to their problems.

I guess the point I was trying to make is based on my desire not to use Herbicides unless I don't have any other "reasonable" options.

Now, I am not as single minded as Howard "The Dirt Doctor" Garrett!

For me, I am just willing to spend more money and more time on a non chemical solution.

I do agree with you that "...any remedial action that produces a rapid and drastic alteration in an aquatic ecosystem" can cause more damage than benefit.

I just prefer not to use herbacides and encourage others to do the same.

Cheers,

JW