re: Getting rid of cattails

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Two chemical compounds are the most effective in controlling cattails and are approved for aquatic use. These are diquat and glyphosate. Common trade names for these products are Reward (diquat) and Rodeo (glyphosate). However, a number of companies market other aquatic products using these compounds. They are generally available or can be ordered through agricultural supply or feed stores. Using either compound in accordance with the product label should not result in adverse effects on fish.

Diquat is a contact herbicide, meaning it kills only those portions of the plant that it touches. Thus, complete coverage of the cattail is needed to eliminate the plant. This requires spraying the area of cattails from several directions, a definite drawback. Another drawback is that diquat does not travel through the plant and therefore does not reach the cattail?s roots. The root system is not killed, allowing the same roots to grow new shoots the following year. Using diquat will require yearly applications.

Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide, meaning that it travels throughout the plant killing both the roots and vegetative portions. Systemic herbicides are preferred in the elimination of perennial plants, which the cattail is classified as. In treating cattails, a person can walk the shore making sure to spray glyphosate liberally on the portions of the cattails that can be reached. There is no need to spray from multiple directions. Another advantage is that one application can totally (or nearly so) eliminate the cattail stand. One drawback of glyphosate is that it is more expensive?systemic herbicides usually are.

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