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    Lily Pad Control in a Pond

    Many people refer to the water lily, either the native or introduced varieties, as lily pads but that is simply the emergent part of the plant or part of the plant we can see above the water. The entire plant is much more complicated and includes a sophisticated root system which serves as one of its ways of reproduction. This root system is the aspect that should be considered when one decides how to best manage their water lily issues.

    The water lily has large, round, cleft leaves that grow six to 12 inches in diameter; they are cut about halfway to the mid-vein. The underside of the leaf is purplish red, and the flower is white or yellow with multiple rows of petals.

    Most exotic or non-native water lilies usually have brightly colored flowers in either pink, purple, or red. Some exotics also have white or yellow flowers and can be difficult to distinguish from native species. Non-native varieties are classified in most states as a “regulated exotic species” making them legal to purchase and own, but illegal to put anywhere that a person cannot control the plant and its growth.

    As with many weeds, destroying the root system is the best way to eliminate a plant that has taken over part or a complete body of water. Unfortunately, mechanical removal is often not the answer as any root system fragments left behind can re-grow into an entirely new plant within a growing season or two. Additionally, cutting the plants back at the wrong time of year can lead to stimulated growth, causing an even bigger plant problem.

    Lake Restoration recommends the use of the Cattail & Water Lily Control package. Mix Imox herbicide and a surfactant (wetting/sticking agent) together with water in a sprayer and spray the lily pads directly. The Imox herbicide travels from the visible and reachable leaf, or lily pad, all the way to the root system. Read all product labels before application.

    Treat water lilies at the end of summer or beginning of fall, when there is plenty of leaf space to get the products onto, and the plants are getting ready to pull their energies down to the root system, which helps pull the herbicide down as well. There is no need for the back-breaking effort that can come with physical or mechanical removal.

    The Cattail & Water Lily Control package is excellent for treating just certain areas. If the lilies are taking over the entire pond, Spritflo fluridone is an outstanding alternative. Spritflo can simply be poured into a few places in the pond, and the fluridone spreads throughout the entire body of water. Because of this, this product is only recommended in ponds with no overflow/outflow. It needs 30-45 days of contact time with the plants to see full results, and the Spritflo remains suspended in the water for extended periods of time.

    If you have any questions about identifying what may be a native or invasive water lily problem or wonder how to get your plant problem under control, please contact us at Lake Restoration, we’re happy to help.