Reeds grow very quickly and form roots up to 1.5 meters long, so they can take up an entire pond. Below you will find out how to prevent this and how to remove reeds from the pond.
How to remove reeds from a pond?
To remove reeds from a pond, you can dig up the reeds, let reed roots rot, or do a complete pond cleaning. Do not use weed killers as they are harmful to the environment and living beings.
Dig up reeds
Reeds on the edge of the bank can be dug up with a pickaxe and spade. The effort involved varies depending on the height and age of the reeds. The taller or older it is, the deeper the roots go and the more you have to dig to remove all parts of the plant. You can find out more about the procedure in our guide to digging up reeds.
Allowing reed roots to rot
If the roots are in water, you can try to get rid of the reeds with a trick:
- In autumn, cut off the leaves and fronds below the water surface. Be sure to use gloves!
- Water penetrates the stems, which with a bit of luck leads to them and the roots rotting.
- Clean the pond thoroughly in spring and remove the reed residue.
In the worst case: complete pond cleaning
If the reeds are already very tall and threaten to completely take over the pond and/or destroy the pond liner, your only option is probably to completely renovate it.
- Carefully remove any plants you want to keep and store them in buckets filled with water or similar. Also remove decorative elements and stones.
- Then empty your pond.
- Now cut down the reeds and all unwanted plants and dispose of the plant parts.
- Dig up roots at the edge of the bank.
- Remove stones, roots and plant debris from and around the pond.
- Clean the film thoroughly with a scrubber and a water hose.
- Inspect the film for damage and patch any holes and tears. (Note the dry season!)
- Then fill your pond with water and add plants, stones and other decorative elements.
No weed killers in the pond
Don't fight reeds in the pond - or in the garden - with weed killer! Roundup and Co. are extremely harmful to the environment and the human organism. They lead to cancer, deformities and kidney and liver damage in animals and humans. For the sake of your pets, pond inhabitants, chirping garden companions and yourself, grab a shovel!
