How to Control Phragmites on Stormwater Ponds and Ditches in Hampton Roads

Phragmites, or common reed, is one of the most aggressive invasive plants in coastal Virginia and North Carolina. It grows 10 to 15 feet tall, spreads by underground runners, and can take over a pond edge, ditch or marsh margin in a few seasons. Once it is established, mowing alone will not get rid of it. Here is how phragmites control actually works.

Why phragmites is a problem

• It crowds out native plants and wildlife habitat along ponds and wetlands.
• It blocks views, inlets, outfalls and drainage ditches.
• Dead stalks build up into thick, dry thatch that can become a fire hazard.
• On stormwater facilities, it makes slopes and edges hard to inspect and maintain.

Why mowing alone does not work

Phragmites stores energy in an extensive root and rhizome system. Cutting the tops off leaves those roots untouched, and the stand grows right back, often thicker. Mowing before treatment can also reduce how well herbicide works, because there is less leaf surface to absorb it.

What works: a multi-season program

• Map the stand so every patch is treated, not just the most visible one.
• Treat at the right time of year. Late summer into fall, when the plant is moving energy down into its roots, is usually the most effective window for herbicide.
• Use products labeled for the site, especially near water, applied by licensed applicators.
• Cut and remove dead stalks after treatment has taken effect, so new growth is easy to spot.
• Follow up the next season to catch regrowth and seedlings. Most established stands take two to three seasons to get under control.

Phragmites on stormwater ponds

On BMP facilities, phragmites control fits naturally into an annual maintenance program alongside slope mowing and woody-growth removal. One crew can handle all of it on the same visits. See our stormwater pond and BMP maintenance and invasive species control services.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get rid of phragmites?

Most established stands take two to three seasons of treatment and follow-up before they are under control.

When is the best time to treat phragmites?

Late summer into fall is usually the most effective window for herbicide treatment, followed by cutting once the treatment has taken effect.

Do you treat phragmites in North Carolina?

Yes. Ives Contracting is licensed in Virginia and North Carolina and treats phragmites across Hampton Roads and northeastern North Carolina.

Fighting phragmites on your property? Request a quote or email estimating@ivescontracting.com with the site and the size of the stand.