Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) is an emersed aquatic weed that grows 3-4 feet tall. Leaves are large and shiny with a heart-shaped base. Each leaf has very fine veins is attached toon its own stem in clusters. Pickerelweed is easily recognized by its beautiful 4” spike of blue-purple flowers. Each flower has 6 petal-like parts united below into a tube. Flowers bloom from June through November and attract insects, bees and butterflies. Pickerelweed reproduces from seed & rhizomes rooted in the mud.
Control methods:
1) Aquacide Pellets are a 2,4-D based, systemic aquatic weed killer that is best-applied early spring as new growth begins to appear. Repeat treatment 3-5 weeks after the first application may be needed to kill the entire root system.
2) Aqua Neat Liquid and Shore-Klear Liquid are both glyphosate based, systemic aquatic herbicides best applied mid-season when all the weeds are above the water surface and in full bloom. Again, repeat treatment 3-5 weeks after the first application may be needed to kill the entire root system.
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