Invasive Plant Control in the North Carolina Sandhills
Alternanthera philoxeroides - alligatorweed
Alligatorweed is an
herbaceous perennial that grows in aquatic and semiaquatic
environments. Alligatorweed's rapid establishment, growth, and spread
of dense mats on water surfaces alter water flow and light resources,
making the environment unsuitable for native aquatic vegetation growth.
Altered water flow can lead to the accumulation of sediment and debris,
or aggravate flooding. The best strategy to prevent the spread of
alligatorweed is to limit public access to infested areas. Mechanical
means can be used to control alligatorweed in already established
populations, but since it spreads vegetatively, this technique will not
eradicate populations. The vegetation should be removed and killed by
either drying or herbicide. The procedure may need repetition more than
once a year for several years.
