Aquatic Weed Management in Citrus Canals and Ditches

Aquatic plants are necessary for maintaining the balance of nature and offering food, protection, oxygen, and shelter to aquatic species. One reality of growing citrus in Florida flatwoods areas is that nearly every citrus grower will sooner or later experience aquatic weed control problems. Maintaining a balance in the aquatic system while sustaining crop success and avoiding loss of income can be a challenge. Over-abundant aquatic weed growth can also lower drainage rates following heavy rains, resulting in severe root pruning, increased disease incidence, and fruit drop. Therefore management of aquatic vegetation species should be an essential component of the overall water management strategy for most Flatwoods citrus groves.

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