Spikerush

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Spikerush (Eleocharis spp.) is a slender, erect green stem that arises in clumps from relatively shallow roots and can form dense mats. The stems are topped by brown flower heads in summer. The stems are usually 6 inches or less long. Often they are completely underwater, although they frequently break loose and form floating mats on the surface. When submerged, the plant changes from slender, individual stems to dense, trailing mats.

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Spikerush is not usually a problem in Mississippi but can become abundant enough to require treatment. It occurs most frequently in acid waters, although a few species can tolerate alkaline conditions.

You can usually control spikerush with treatment (a) given on the treatments page. However, in some cases, you may have to use treatment (b) for effective control. Read and follow label instructions before using any chemical in water.

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.