Pond Boss Forums AQUATIC VEGETATION Controlling unwanted plants Willows and Ponds

Our new 1 acre pond in Texas is great. I am contemplating planting a few more trees surrounding the pond. I've always enjoyed Willow Trees (i.e. Weeping Willows, etc.) but I hear that these may be problematic to ponds in that they will absorb much of the water from the pond. Is this true of Willow trees?

Mike

i don't know about them sucking up alot of water. i do know they are very messy , when they get big the winds tear them apart , then you end up getting rid of whats left.

You are aware there should be no trees on the dam? If I were to plant a willow on a 1 ac pond it would have to be at the farthest point from the dam as the roots can grow 100 ft or more.
Yes willows drink alot of water. Here's a link I found searching for willow tree : http://www.pondboss.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=14;t=000015

I am looking for some chemical way to get rid of willow trees that will not hurt the fish or the rest of our lake.

Skains,

A 2% solution of 2-4-D works well on small willows up to about 3-4 feet. Make sure you get the salt (amine) type as it is less toxic to fish. I've read that you need a license to buy it in Texas. A license is also required in Louisiana for any amount over a quart. You'll probably pay quite a bit for shipping, but you can buy it from ebay if you have trouble finding it.

Habitat is excellent at killing willows (roots and all) and is safe for fish/frogs etc. Not cheap though. Here is the label link for most products.

http://www.pondboss.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=14;t=000247

http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/guide/labmsds.html#imazapyr

Here's a place to purchase on line:
http://www.alexweb.net/mgc/chemicals_alpha.htm

I don't see Habitat listed but maybe you could e-mail them.