Pondweed

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Pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.) are a large, varied group of rooted plants with totally submerged or a mix of submerged and floating leaves (see photos). Some members of the group are very difficult to control.

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Pondweeds have alternate leaves. Flowers and fruits are spikes or heads. Stems vary from upright to horizontal and from a few inches to several feet long. Stems usually reach almost to the surface of the water and may trail just beneath or even on the surface. Flowers are usually greenish or brownish and are small and close together in oblong or ball-like spikes. Many pondweeds have two kinds of leaves: (1) floating and firm-textured and (2) submerged, ribbon-like, and membranous. Depending on the species, the leaves may be small and thread-like, large and oval-shaped, or large and lance-shaped. Leaves, although alternate, can be paired or bunched toward stem tips. Stems are jointed and have fibrous roots at the lower nodes.

Potamogeton can occasionally cause severe problems in ponds in Mississippi. Usually the treatments suggested on the treatments page will effectively control most species of Potamogeton. Be sure to read and follow label instructions before applying.

Special care was taken to make certain that all herbicide treatments are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency for use in the manner described. Registrations of specific practices are often changed or deleted; therefore, treatments suggested in this information sheet may not remain current indefinitely. Read and observe the manufacturer's label to prevent misuse of a herbicide. It is not intended or proposed that usage of any given practice suggested in this information sheet be in violation with existing registration or manufacturer's label.

If you fail to carefully read and follow suggested treatments, you could cause extensive damage to the environment, crops, livestock or humans.