Chemistry & herbicides
2,4-D
2,4-D is a selective broadleaf herbicide effective on water hyacinth, water lettuce, and Eurasian watermilfoil. Available in aquatic-labeled liquid and granular forms. Generally safer for native grasses and emergent monocots than glyphosate but still damages native broadleaf emergents (lily, pickerelweed) at typical rates. Drift is the most common cause of off-target damage when sprayed.
Related terms
- Aquatic herbicideAny EPA-registered herbicide labeled for application to standing water or aquatic vegetation.
- Water hyacinthA free-floating invasive plant with bulbous petioles and showy purple flowers, capable of doubling in 8–12 days.
- Eurasian watermilfoilA submerged invasive with feather-like leaves in whorls of 4, dominant across northern US lakes.