When was water hyacinth introduced

So, how do we make the best of the evil? Perhaps, instead of trying to destroy the species, the invasiveness and massive proliferation of the plant could be utilised for the good of the environment.

Water hyacinth might have some good intent after all. View the discussion thread. Skip to main content. About Introducing Research Matters 2. Search form. Water Hyacinth—Invasion with good intent? Flowering can begin as early as October and continue through summer. Each flower stays open 1—2 days before beginning to wither. When all flowers have withered, stalk gradually bends to water and, after about 18 days, releases seeds from capsules at base of each dead flower.

Seeds sink to substrate and persist there for at least 15 years. Affected animals Native aquatic animals Humans. Impacts Environmental Destroys native wetlands and waterways, killing native fish and other wildlife.

Depletes water bodies of oxygen. Increases water loss. Provides breeding ground for mosquitoes. Social Large infestations stop movement of boats by clogging engine water-cooling systems. Degrades quality of swimming and makes fishing impossible. Interferes with and damages infrastructure. How it is spread Seeds and stem fragments spread mostly by water movement. Prevention Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread. Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

Control Mechanical control For small areas or when numbers are low, remove by hand or machine before plants flower and seeds set. Control large areas with harvesters. Herbicide control Spraying an entire infestation can cause water hyacinth to sink and result in pollution from the rotting plant.

Avoid this by spraying strips of plant or by mechanically removing much plant before spraying. Destroy scattered plants when they appear rather than delaying treatment until entire water body has been choked. Diquat is the only herbicide registered for use in water storage areas used for human consumption. Note that 14 days must elapse after treatment before water can be consumed.

In non-potable water bodies, water hyacinth can be treated with 2,4D, Diquat, Amitrole and Glyphosate. Fruit is a capsule with many seeds. Stolons extend outward from the parent plant to produce new plants. What You Can Do Learn how to identify water hyacinth and how to prevent accidentally spreading this plant with your watercraft.

Do not plant water hyacinth in your pond or water garden. Water gardeners should only use native or non-invasive plants and are encouraged to ask garden centers for plants that are not invasive. Never release unwanted plants into any natural waterbody. Return or donate unwanted plants to a garden center, a school or a friend, or dispose of them in the garbage. Clean, Drain, Dry your boat, trailer, and boating equipment.

Think you have seen an invasive species? Report it! Invading Species Hotline