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STEP#6: FOLLOW-UP |
The degree and duration of control desired plus the climate, weather conditions, species present and water
quality will determine the frequency of chemical applications required. Follow-up treatments to control plants
in areas missed by the initial applications or for control of re-growth may be required from 10 to 30 days following
the first application. It is wise to have sufficient herbicide on hand to re-treat 1/4 to 1/3 of the original area.
Touch-up work can often be accomplished by spot treating with granular products. Re-growth, which occurs in the same
season, should always be examined to determine whether a species change has occurred. It is not uncommon for different
mid-summer plants to replace species that infested an area in spring. Alternative chemical or dosage rates may be
required to treat late season growth.
Where algae growth is a recurring problem, maintain a suitable supply of chemical for several treatments.
Typically, algae will be actively growing during the months when water temperatures are above 600F (150C). Frequency
of application will normally range from 3 to 6 weeks apart. Warmer water temperatures, high nutrient concentrations
and intense sunlight will promote algae growth.
Although conditions may vary from year to year, with some experience it is possible to predict the annual chemical
treatment requirements of a body of water. This is why accurate record keeping is important (see report format below).
To prevent problems from getting out of hand, stock the necessary chemicals so they are available at the first signs of trouble.
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Descriptions and pictures are from the book "How to Identify and Control Water Weeds and Algae", Edited by James C. Schmidt, 5th edition revised 1998, copyright 1976 Applied Biochemists |
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