There are many aquatic plants nonnative ones found near Longwood, Florida. A study done in 2017 found that 18/26 plants that were researched were invasive. Invasive, meaning harmful to the pond life. Below are some of the invasive nonnative aquatic plants, and how to help your local waterway.
Aquatic Plant: Hydrilla
First found in southeast Asia in the 1950s, within a year or two, they cover the entire water body surface. In peak growing season their stems grow up to 6-8 inches per day. Hydrilla is invasive since it blocks sunlight, to shade native plants below. It blocks air exchange and consumes all the oxygen, causing the fish to die. If it breaks loose, can cause jams against bridges and dams. In conclusion, Your best management effort is to eradicate new infestations to better control the established plants.
Aquatic Plant: Water Lettuce
First founded in South America during the Colonial period. They float on the water and harbor mosquitos. In a few weeks, they can completely double in size. These plants supply harborage for mosquitos; hence deemed invasive. They also displace native plants, fish, and wildlife. As well as, increase sedimentation, and reduce property value and tax revenue. The best management is to pull them from around bridges and flood control structures. Or, wait till winter and do a drawdown, which is causing them to dry out.
Aquatic Plants: Water Hyacinth
Discovered in South America, found floating in the water. Found all over Central Florida, especially in the peninsula. Firstly similar to the Water Lettuce, in as little as two weeks it can double in size. Therefore, deemed invasive because how it creates dense mats that prevent air and light to come into the water. Also, like the water lettuce, displace native plants, fish, and wildlife. Its seeds can lie dormant in sediments for years. In conclusion, the best management is to hand pull them into the biggest populations. You can use harvesters or shredders at bridges to control them as well.
Prevention of Aquatic Plants
Most invasive plants are transferred by birds, or wildlife; making it impossible to prevent getting them in your local pond. Invasive plants are difficult to control and have the ability to degrade entire ecosystems. Firstly they reproduce quickly. Secondly, they cause quite a commotion really quickly, the best prevention of the growth and taking over the water source is to let licensed professionals deal with it. Thirdly, most chemicals should not be applied close to the water. Therefore that is why it is important to let a licensed professional take care of it.
All of us at RH Miller Pest Services take pride in making sure that you can have peace of mind. Servicing cities like Longwood, in Central Florida for over 29 years, we have the expertise to get the results you desire! Ponds, Bugs, Wildlife, or Lawn; we do it all. Find out why we have a 5 STAR rating on Google today! Give us a call at 407-339-7119.
