Vegetation – Friend or Foe?

Folks ask us what vegetation to plant in their new pond.  The short answer is, don’t introduce random plants.  Nature will sprout varieties compatible with your environment.  Your “very” important task is managing a healthy balance.

Bob and Chad don’t become concerned about vegetation until it covers more than 20 percent of a pond.  The presence of most plants sets off bells and whistles.  One that doesn’t cause great alarm is American pondweed in the adjacent photo.  It’s perennial, with floating and submerged leaves in alternate patterns.  Submerged leaves are not abundant, slightly transparent, and have smaller growth.  Floating leaves offer some shade.  It often has open pockets of growth that provide cover for fish.

You can fish it with Ribbits, Scum Frogs, and similar weedless lures.  American pondweed may not be on the top ten most dreaded list, but keep an eye on it.  Remember the 20 percent rule.

If a vegetation condition progresses to a level that catches your attention, don’t postpone treatment.  Ask anyone who recently purchased aquatic chemicals.  They liken it to liquid gold.  Bushy pondweed, niad, coontail, and lily pads are fast growers.  Delay action 30-days and you’ll be surprised how fast they spread.

Spring is the best time to initiate a management plan while plants are dormant during cold-water temperatures.  Timely implementation can make or break success.  If runaway vegetation is limiting use of your pond, call for an appointment to nip it in the bud.