Cattail Removal: Your Next Steps

For many lakefront homeowners, cattails can become an unsightly blot on your beautiful property, sometimes blocking boating or swimming space. At Waterfront Restoration, we understand how frustrating unkempt cattails can become. Luckily, we are happy to work with you to find the perfect method on how to get rid of cattails, reinvigorating your lakefront in just hours. Wondering how to start the cattail removal process? First, you will need to determine which removal method is the best option for you. Read below to take the first steps!

Cattail Removal Method One: Cutting

Cutting cattails is a quick and effective method of removal. One of the best ways to cut cattails is by using an aquatic weed cutter. This gas powered underwater weed cutting machine can cut through cattails quickly and easily, and it is especially useful for cutting cattails rooted in hard, sandy sediment. This tool cuts the cattails below the waterline, which drowns the root system and prevents regrowth. This method is less costly and labor-intensive than hand plucking, and it is much easier to maintain after the initial cutting.

Another option for cutting cattails is to use a Weed Razer tool. This tool is made of tough stainless steel that helps you take down even large stands of cattails with ease. It’s important to aim for the base of the plants when using this tool so that you can effectively kill them off without leaving any roots behind.

Finally, if you don’t have access to either of these tools, you can also use a hedge trimmer attachment head on your weed eater or a string trimmer head to cut down cattails. This method will require more effort than using an AVG or Weed Razer tool but it will still be effective in controlling your cattail population.

No matter which cutting method you choose, it’s important to remember that cutting off the heads of the cattails before they go to seed (while they are still brown) will help prevent them from spreading further.

Cattail Removal Method Two: Hand Puckling

Hand plucking cattails is a great option for those looking for long-lasting results in a smaller area. Best in sandy, mucky sediment, this solution removes the cattail and its root system through the use of hand plucking. This method is more labor-intensive and tends to be at a higher cost than cutting cattails.

The process of removing cattails by hand is quite simple. First, you will need to identify the area in which you would like to have the cattails removed. Next, you can start to pull the cattails out by hand or you can use a tool for assistance like a rake or shovel. You want to make sure to get the entire root in order to prevent spread and regrowth. Finally, you will want to monitor the removal area regularly to ensure new growth does not occur.

Cattail Removal Method Three: Bog Removal

Cattail bogs can be a nuisance to manage, but with the right strategy, they can be controlled. Waterfront Restoration offers an effective solution to cattail bog management: cutting sections of the cattail away and completely removing them from the water. This is a labor-intensive and costly process, but it is highly effective in preventing regrowth for several years after removal.

In addition to cutting away the cattails, other strategies such as reducing water levels during the growing season for mowing or hand pulling, partially freezing the cattails, or using herbicides can also be used to control their spread. With these methods in place, cattail bogs can be managed effectively and kept from becoming an invasive nuisance.

Cattail Bog Removal: Before and After

Wondering when is the best time for cattail removal? Check out our blog about Fall cattail removal to learn more.

It is important to remember that any removal method of cattails requires a DNR permit, which we at Waterfront Restoration can take care of for you. Regardless of the method your lakefront needs, Waterfront Restoration’s team of account representatives is here to help. Fall is a great time to remove both your lake weeds and your cattails, preparing your lakefront for winter and the next summer season. Call us at 952-356-0614 or visit us online to schedule your free, no-obligation cattail removal consultation today!