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Cattails are tall, dense plants that grow along pond edges and can quickly take over if not managed. While they provide some natural benefits, such as habitat and shelter for wildlife (if you happen to be a muskrat or redwinged blackbird), their rapid growth can clog ponds, reduce water flow, and even limit oxygen levels. They will adversely affect fish and other pond life. If you’re looking to control cattail growth, here’s how to tackle it.
Ah the Cattail… It has been the subject of poems and songs and it is a devilishly clever foe when it's facing the imminent doom of a dedicated pond manager. Patience and determination is key to obtaining lasting control of cattails.
CONSTANT VIGILANCE!!!!
Whose the target?...BEHOLD… The Narrowleaf Cattail.
Otherwise known as Typha angustifolia, like most of our freshwater invasive species - this jerk is native to Europe/Asia and has spread coast to coast. Fouling up waterways and reducing habitat vibrancy / diversity all along its path of conquest.
This is not our native cattail (though the methods below will work for both species). The narrowleaf cattail sucks - it has degraded the wildlife potential of countless wetlands nationwide. Be sure to keep it out of your aquatic haven. Use these tips to help you along the way…..
Manual removal can be labor-intensive but is highly effective for small ponds or areas with sparse cattails.
Step 1: Use a weed razor or sickle to cut down cattail stems at or below water level.
Cutting off below water level is best - it can lead to permanently "drowning" the plant
If you're looking for a work out, yank them out by the roots. Pull out as much of the plant as possible, to prevent regrowth. It is near impossible to get all of the rootstock on the 1st try, so…..CONSTANT VIGILANCE!
Step 2: For areas with dense growth, cutting cattails in late summer or early fall can help, as this is when they transfer nutrients to their roots. Cutting them at this stage weakens future growth.
Step 3: Clear the debris away from the pond and compost or burn the dried husks.
Composting cattails is great! It only takes elevendy billion years to decompose completely ;). I always tell people that we would still be using the space shuttle if we just plastered cattails to the outside…..
Tip: Cattails spread through both seeds and rhizomes, so removing the entire plant is key to reducing their spread.
For larger ponds, you can cut the cattails and cover the area with a pond-safe liner or barrier to prevent regrowth.
Step 1: Cut cattails close to the root level using a sickle (or shears if you are a masochist that likes a sore back) .
Step 2: Cover the area with a pond liner or natural barrier, depriving the cattails of sunlight and oxygen. This method prevents them from photosynthesizing, weakening their ability to grow back.
This works kind of…. Cattails are resilient buggers with really long rhizomal root systems. This can work, but be prepared to give it a long time to make a lasting impact on the total population.
This method was successfully used in a Michigan community pond where cattail overgrowth was an issue. By covering cut areas with liners, they reduced regrowth by over 80% in the first year.
In cases where manual methods aren’t feasible, pond-safe herbicides can be effective in controlling cattails. Opt for environmentally friendly, pond-specific herbicides to avoid harming fish and other plants.
Step 1: Choose a triclopyr or glyphosate-based herbicide labeled for aquatic use. Apply with a non-ionic surfactant or sticker agent to help the chemical penetrate the waxy cuticle. Treat a 2nd time after 2 weeks as you’ll miss some and you’ll want to round up any stragglers. (Heh, get it….ROUND UP any stragglers…LOL…I’m hilarious)
Step 2: Apply in late summer when cattails are transferring nutrients to their roots. Apply directly to the foliage, allowing it to travel to the roots for effective removal.
Important: Always read the herbicide label and follow usage guidelines to protect pond life. Avoid spraying on windy days, as this can lead to accidental exposure to non-target plants. WEAR GLOVES and spray down wind with a large droplet size. If you aren't confident in your gear or technique, please hire a qualified applicator to apply this treatment for you.
Pond aerators play an essential role in keeping your pond balanced. They have very little to do with keeping cattails under control, but they are a great strategy to keep the pond healthy and happy. Aeration improves oxygen levels and reduces stagnant areas where cattails thrive. By circulating water, aerators promote a healthier ecosystem, making it harder for cattails and other invasive plants to overtake the pond.
3 Types of pond aeration: Which is best for your pond?
Studies show that ponds with proper aeration experience a 25-30% reduction in invasive plant/algae growth compared to non-aerated ponds.
After removing cattails, consider using natural barriers or floating vegetation mats to cover exposed areas and prevent cattail seeds from taking root. This method adds a layer of protection against regrowth while enhancing the pond’s natural beauty.
Real-World Case Study: A wildlife pond in Texas installed floating mats after cattail removal, creating both a barrier to regrowth and a habitat for local fish and amphibians. Within six months, the mats had established enough to prevent cattails from returning, supporting long-term control.
After you’ve finally gained control of the cattails infesting your shoreline, keep an eye out for any regrowth or new seedlings. Cattail seeds can remain dormant in the soil for several years AND the fluffy seeds are easily carried by the wind to your property from miles away. Keep your eyes peeled for new plants attempting to invade your hard won cattail-free environs.
Q: Will removing cattails harm my pond’s ecosystem?
A: Removing cattails won’t harm your pond. In fact, reducing dense growth can help improve water flow, oxygen levels, and sunlight availability, benefiting fish and beneficial aquatic plants.
Q: Are herbicides safe for fish?
A: Only use herbicides labeled for aquatic use, and apply carefully. Properly applied, they’re safe for fish, but avoid overuse to prevent unintended effects on pond life.
Q: Can I prevent cattail regrowth naturally?
A: Yes, adding natural barriers like floating vegetation mats or pond liners after removal can prevent regrowth without chemicals. Monthly cattail patrol to uproot seedlings is a good idea to maintain long-term control.
Monitor Growth: Check regularly for new shoots and remove them promptly.
Use Preventative Methods: Maintain healthy pond circulation with pond pumps and aerators.
Plan Seasonal Maintenance: Late summer or early fall is the ideal time to tackle cattails for maximum impact.
Good luck, cattails can be a very labor intensive ordeal, but, as one of my good friends once said…
