Duckweed Control in Lakes and Ponds

What is Duckweed?

Duckweed comes in five species: watermeal (Wolffia, sp.), common duckweed (Lemna minor), mosquito fern (Azolla pinnata), dotted duckmeat (Landoltia punctate), and giant (Spirodela polyrhiza). If you have a still pond or lake, a sluggish stream or other standing water, you may have seen how duckweed creates a thick floating layer on the top.  

Why is Duckweed a Problem?

Duckweed quickly covers still water and depletes oxygen. This creates fish kills.

How Do I Get Rid of This Invasive Weed?

If duckweed is just starting to reproduce in your water, grass carp can be introduced as they eat duckweed. This is a natural, environmentally friendly method and should work if the infestation is not extensive. Aerating the water is helpful, using a submerged system or installing a fountain.

If you drop the water level to expose the duckweed, it will die back. Reoccurrence is a possibility.

How Much Does It Cost?

Duckweed is a floating invasive, or introduced plant. It quickly chokes out native plants. The ecosystems in a body of water are depended upon by birds, fish, and animals for survival.
The cost to control duckweed depends on your unique situation.

For a long-term solution, Estate Management Services offers no-cost, no-obligation site surveys, which can be scheduled online or by calling 1-888-307-6637.