can you tell me if these are willow trees (see photos)? I have them all around my pond. I have mechanically removed them from the dam side, but I have left some to grow on the opposite side of the dam. Should I eradicate them, and what is the best way to do so? I have heard of the glyphosate glove of death.
Those are willows. I THINK they are a scrub type willow, maybe a black willow. As thick as those are, I'd remove most of them personally. They will absorb a lot of water if they are at the pond's edge.
It is the active ingredient in Roundup herbicide, but there are formulations that have carriers that are suitable for aquatic applications. In other words, Roundup will kill weeds, but the carrier of the glyphosate in it is not approved for ponds. But there are formulations that are approved for pond use that have the carriers that will not harm your fish. Same goes for surfactant additives. You need one approved for aquatic situations.
A search should find several different brand names. Or ask a farm chemical dealer, they should be able to steer you in the right direction. Farm stores in some areas may carry an aquatic version.
It is the label and the law to use only approved formulations.
