Protect Your Lake from Invasive Aquatic Weeds with Spring Management
Curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) is an aggressive, non-native aquatic plant that poses a serious threat to Wisconsin’s lakes and ponds. With its wavy, reddish-green leaves and early-season growth pattern, it quickly outcompetes native vegetation, degrades water quality, and disrupts recreational use.
At Wisconsin Lake and Pond Resource, we specialize in science-driven, timely aquatic weed control strategies that stop curly-leaf pondweed before it spreads. The key to success? Early spring treatment—before this invasive plant can release its seeds and take over your lake.
Why Is Curly-Leaf Pondweed a Concern in Wisconsin?
This hardy plant thrives in cool water and begins growing beneath the surface as early as late winter or early spring—far ahead of most native aquatic species. By the time summer arrives, curly-leaf pondweed has formed dense, tangled mats that block sunlight, reduce plant diversity, and disrupt fish habitat.
When it dies back in early summer, it leaves behind heavy organic matter and excess nutrients—conditions that fuel algae blooms and reduce oxygen levels, sometimes even leading to fish kills.
Curly-leaf pondweed spreads by turions, small reproductive buds that settle into lake sediment and remain viable for years. That means one infestation can lead to long-term problems if not managed early and effectively.
Problems Caused by Curly-Leaf Pondweed
- Overtakes Native Aquatic Plants – Reduces biodiversity and aquatic habitat
- Reduces Water Clarity and Oxygen – Promotes algae growth and decay
- Interferes with Lake Recreation – Dense weed beds make fishing and boating frustrating
- Hard to Eliminate – Turions allow it to return year after year without intervention
The Best Time to Treat in Wisconsin: Early Spring
The most effective way to control curly-leaf pondweed in Wisconsin is with a selective herbicide treatment in early spring, when water temperatures are between 50–60°F. At this stage, the plant is actively growing but hasn’t yet produced turions. Targeting it now prevents it from reseeding and reduces its spread in future seasons.
If treatment is delayed until summer, the plant has already completed its life cycle and begun to decay—at which point control is ineffective and water quality can suffer due to decomposing vegetation.
Our Proven Management Process at Wisconsin Lake and Pond Resource
Our team of aquatic biologists and licensed applicators delivers effective, environmentally sound solutions to keep Wisconsin lakes and ponds healthy. When tackling curly-leaf pondweed, we:
- Monitor seasonal water temperature trends to find the ideal treatment window
- Apply targeted aquatic herbicides that focus on invasive species while preserving beneficial plants
- Develop custom lake management plans tailored to your goals, usage, and location
- Provide ongoing support and follow-up evaluations to ensure long-term success
From private lakefront properties to community lakes and ponds, we deliver results that improve water quality, preserve recreation, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Ready to Stop Curly-Leaf Pondweed Before It Spreads?
Don’t let invasive species take over your lake or pond. Early spring is the most effective time to treat curly-leaf pondweed and prevent future infestations. Let Wisconsin Lake and Pond Resource help you reclaim your waterbody with professional, science-based solutions.
Contact us today to schedule a spring assessment and start protecting your lake the smart way.
About Wisconsin Lake & Pond Resource, A Jones Lake Management Partner
Wisconsin Lake & Pond Resource specializes in comprehensive lake and pond management solutions, including algae and aquatic weed control, aeration, hydraulic dredging, erosion control, and fisheries management. As a Jones Lake Management Partner, we serve a diverse range of clients, including HOAs, golf courses, municipalities, and private lake owners. With a commitment to science-driven strategies and environmental sustainability, Wisconsin Lake & Pond Resource helps maintain and restore aquatic ecosystems for long-term health and enjoyment.
