For many Minnesotans, lake weeds are an annoying but expected part of lake life. Here at Waterfront Restoration, we specialize in by-the-root lake-weed removal, ensuring you love your lakefront all season long. Are you interested in beginning your lake weed removal journey? To start, you may be wondering when to expect weed growth for each species. We’ve outlined three of Minnesota’s most common weed species.
Curly-leaf Pond Weed
Image from University of Minnesota
Curly-leaf pond weed is a rooted, submerged plant that begins to flourish in late May and early June. Not native to Minnesota, this species can pose a threat to native plants and animals by growing into dense mats, which also impedes swimming and boating access. We recommend hand-plucking strategies to manage curly leaf (1).
Milfoil
Most Minnesotans are familiar with Eurasian milfoil, one of the most common lake weed species in our region. Similarly to curly-leaf, the invasive milfoil grows extensive root systems, making it essential to remove by-the-root. Long, stringy, and usually found in lakes and streams, milfoil weed growth is most prominent in late June into July (2).
Coontail
Image from Minnesota Wildflowers
Bushy and lightly rooted, coontail is native to Minnesota and thrives throughout the hot summer months. Coontail can flourish in more stagnant water, and it is not unusual to see the species growing rapidly in an area where a lot of lily pads are present. Also known as “hornwort”, this weed species is best managed with blowers and manual removal (3).
Lilypads
Image from Minnesota Wildflowers
Lilypads are a beautiful, yet pervasive, weed that typically begin to flourish in early spring. Regulated by the DNR and growing in mucky, stagnant water, lilypads are decorative and provide habitat for natural species. Waterfront Restoration is able to hand-pluck up to 15 feet of channel without a DNR permit (4).
There is no better time than now to schedule your free, no obligation lake weed removal consultation with one of our experienced account managers. Whether this is your first or fifth season with us, we ensure long-lasting results that will keep your lakeshore pristine, no matter the weed species.
