How to Kill Creek Plants

Pull the plants slowly out of the creek to get the roots out of the dirt at the bottom of the water. Larger plants like cattails have larger root bulbs that may need to be dug out of the dirt with a shovel while wearing waders. The roots must be removed for the plant not to grow back.

Cover the plants in question with a thick tarp to prevent them from getting sunlight. The sun is vital for plants to complete their photosynthetic processes and the tarp will also help prevent the plants above water from getting moisture from rain. Once the plants are dried out, they are often easier to remove.

Cut the plant with scissors as close to its base as possible and pour boiling water into the opening in the stock. Boiling water kills off plant growth and kills any roots it comes into contact with. Cutting the plant and pouring the boiling water over it will damage and weaken the plant. Continued applications should kill it off.

Spray the plants with a herbicide to kill off any remaining plants. Follow all instructions on the container to prevent damage to the creek itself and not to affect any fish or other organisms who live in the water.