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Watermeal is a challenge to aquatic managers everywhere.
It is often misidentified as algae or simply "just green pond
scum." Wolffia can easily cover the entire pond, especially when
little or no wind is present. Wolffia continues to germinate all season
adding to its persistent nature. Bottom line is we are not sure why
some Watermeal responds well to treatment and other times it is tolerant
but, we do know that we gain control more times than not and in nearly
all instances the success is directly attributed to Sonar.
Identification Tips:
- Free floating
- Color is shiny deep or
lime green
- Size is about half the size
of a grain of rice, sometimes no larger than
poppy seed.
- Shape
is slightly elliptical or round.
- Wolffia
has no root structure. Place a finger or two
into the water and withdraw it, your fingers
will be coated with these small distinct green
bb's. Rub your thumb and forefinger together,
they will feel like miniature ball bearings.
Q. What are my best control options?
A. Herbicide Application:
As a starting point there is no better alternative
for Watermeal (Wolffia) control than Sonar
herbicide. The herbicide contains the
active ingredient Fluridone. Sonar is available
in Gallon, quart and pint sizes.
Other Control Methods:
It is our opinion that some techniques work as
an adjuvant to aquatic herbicide treatments such as
aeration/fountain systems but will not negate the
need for a herbicide maintenance program. We know of no skimming
technique or equipment that will successfully control Watermeal.
Q. When is the best time to treat?
A. Generally, active growth stages respond best to treatment. Unlike
many herbicides, Sonar can be applied in colder waters.
Note: If the pond has a persistent outflow of water you will need
to damn it temporarily or reapply depending upon volume outflow. Free
consulting with your product purchases.
Q. How do I actually apply the product(s)?
A. Apply Sonar with a hand held or Solo
Backpack sprayer. Mix Sonar
with enough water to help facilitate distribution around the pond.
It is not important with Sonar to contact all the Duckweed just get
it in the water, its long contact time will take care of even distribution.
Small ponds that require mere ounces of Sonar can be directly applied
from a measuring cup. Make sure to vigorously shake Sonar prior to
application.
A Great Tip: Back pack sprayers cost more but they hold more product,
get the job done faster, spray farther and are much easier to use than
carrying a hand held sprayer that are awkwardly carried and require
frequent stooping, filling and pumping. Once you use a backpack sprayer
there is no going back – You can use it for all your yard weed
control and fertilizer applications too. Always triple rinse spray
tanks after each use!
Q. How often do I need to treat Watermeal (Wolffia)?
A. Start with the full label dose. Look for color change within the
first two weeks for signs that the Watermeal is responding to treatment.
Be patient, control can take 30 to 90 days. It is our experience that
control is achieved within these parameters. Yes, Watermeal can be
tolerant but conversely we have also eradicated it from many ponds
by applying Sonar/Avast.
Purchase
recommended products online:
- Sonar
- Solo
Backpack sprayers
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