Control Arrowhead

Although there are many varieties of arrowhead, controlling this plant is the same no matter which variation. The following options can be considered for how to control arrowhead.

Click here to read more about identifying this plant.

Manual/Mechanical Control:

If you are considering how to remove arrowhead, physically raking this plant can be a somewhat effective method of control. However, physical control can be difficult. Arrowhead can re-grow from any roots or seeds remaining in the water.

Herbicide Control:

There are multiple options for how to kill arrowhead that offer great control.

1. Cattail and Water Lily Control (Imox + surfactant) (for ponds or lakes) – liquids that are mixed and diluted with water and sprayed directly on the plants.
2. Liquid 2, 4-D (for ponds or lakes) – liquid that is diluted with water and sprayed directly on the plants and over the water where they are growing. Most effective on treatment areas larger than a half-acre, this allows longer contact-exposure time.

Treatment Tips:

When treating arrowhead,

• With Imox or other systemic herbicides, treatment is most effective when the plants are mature or close to full grown. This allows for more plant surface to spray enough mixture on.
  • Treat in late summer to early fall to get better kill of the root systems. At this time, plants are pulling energy into their roots to store for the winter.
• With 2, 4-D, treat when the plants are established and actively growing.
  • In spring and early summer, younger arrowhead plants are pushing their energies outward and will not absorb as much herbicide in the roots. For this reason, multiple treatments during the season will likely be needed.