Curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) is one of the most aggressive invasive aquatic weeds threatening waterbodies throughout the Northeast. With its crinkled, reddish-green leaves and rapid early-season growth, it can quickly take over lakes and ponds—disrupting ecosystems, clouding water, and choking out native plants.
At Water & Wetland, we specialize in science-driven curly-leaf pondweed control strategies designed for the unique conditions of Northeast waterbodies. The key to success? Timing your treatment early—before this fast-growing species has a chance to spread and dominate.
Unlike native aquatic vegetation, curly-leaf pondweed grows aggressively in cool water, beginning in late fall and continuing through early spring. By the time other plants start emerging in late spring, curly-leaf has already formed dense underwater mats that outcompete beneficial species and limit biodiversity.
By early summer, the plant collapses and begins to decay—leaving behind thick mats of dying vegetation that:
Even worse, curly-leaf spreads through turions, or seed-like buds, which sink into the sediment and germinate in future seasons. These turions can lie dormant for years, making this invasive species especially difficult to eradicate without early, targeted action.
Because curly-leaf pondweed grows in cool water and dies off by midsummer, the most effective time to treat it is early spring, when water temperatures are between 50°F and 60°F. Treating during this window stops the plant before it produces turions, reducing the chances of a recurring infestation.
Treatments applied too late in the season are far less effective. By summer, the plant is already decomposing, and its turions have settled into the sediment, setting the stage for next year’s outbreak.
Early spring aquatic herbicide application is the most effective way to disrupt the life cycle and preserve long-term pond health.
At Water & Wetland, our team understands the seasonal dynamics and regulatory considerations specific to the region. When it comes to curly-leaf pondweed treatment, we provide:
We work with homeowners, lake associations, municipalities, and golf courses across the Northeast to keep their waterbodies clear, healthy, and free from invasive weeds.
Curly-leaf pondweed is one of the most persistent invasive weeds in the region—but with the right timing and strategy, it can be effectively managed. Don’t wait until summer when the damage is already done. Let our experts at Water & Wetland help you reclaim your lake or pond this spring.
Contact us today to schedule a site visit and build your early-season treatment plan.
About Water & Wetland, A Jones Lake Management Partner
Water & Wetland is a trusted expert in lake, pond, and wetland management, providing innovative and environmentally responsible solutions to control invasive species, restore shorelines, and improve water quality. As a Jones Lake Management Partner, we serve HOAs, golf courses, municipalities, and private landowners with customized lake and pond management plans designed to promote long-term ecological health. We understand the importance of proper permitting and regulatory compliance, ensuring that all projects meet local, state, and federal environmental standards. With a commitment to sustainability and science-based practices, Water & Wetland helps clients maintain thriving, well-balanced waterbodies.