Unbranched Bur-Reed (Sparganium emersum)
This aquatic weed is characterized by floating strap-like leaves which may emerge in shallower water. It spreads by growth of rhizomes and, although seeds are viable, British rivers tend to lack suitable substrates. It is common on clay substrates and has deep rooted rhizomes which are not easily uprooted by fast flowing water, even in spate conditions. It is most common in lowland areas of Britain.
Control
Mechanical control - This plant is controlled by cutting and dredging. Cutting and removal with our Truxor can have good effect with regrowth to original densities taking two to three years.
Chemical control - There is no appropriate chemical method of control for this species when submerged in flowing water. Application of glyphosate to emergent growth will give good
control when applied from August onwards.
Biological control - In still, enclosed waters, grass carp will eat the leaves of but it is not their first choice. They do not provide long-term control as the rhizome persists and regrowth in subsequent seasons is relatively unaffected. The plant will be weakened by continued loss of its leaves and will die after four to five years of this type of treatment. No other form of biological control is known.
Environmental control - The plant is very susceptible to shading and even a slight increase in the amount of shade will lead to a loss of this species in rivers. Increased turbidity created by bottom-feeding fish or other methods at critical times of the year (April - May) may also lead to reduced biomass of this species.