Aquatic and marsh plants have been an important piece of natural ecosystems since the dawn of time. But in today's world of artificially created ponds and lakes, there is an ongoing debate about the need for plants in these systems.
Should you, or should you not, have plants in and around your pond? The answer really depends on your goals.
BEAUTY SPOT. If your pond is more or less for looks, there are many beautiful aquatic and wetland species to choose from. Ornamental water lilies and colorful submersed species are available at many aquatic garden centers.
Pond edges can be enhanced with locally grown cattails, bulrushes and sedges. In many cases these can be "plucked" from the wild—with the landowner's permission.
Species like pickerelweed and Virginia iris can produce beautiful flowers for color throughout the growing season.
Sometimes wetland trees like bald cypress and Tupelo gum can be valuable if planted around a pond. The shading they provide can limit other plants from growing. And as an added benefit, they are said to help reduce mosquito populations.
EROSION CONTROL. Certain wetland grasses that lend themselves to mowing can be planted near the edge. These grasses can help limit erosion and trap runoff.
Be aware that if you plan to swim in your pond, you will probably not want vegetation in or near your swimming area.
Some submerged species can even entangle swimmers. Rushes and grasses often create a haven for snakes.
USEFUL TOOL. Do you want to irrigate or water livestock with your pond? Ponds can be a good source of water for crops, gardens, even landscaping. They are also often used as a source of drinking water for farm animals.
You'll want to keep your water clear of vegetation that can clog pump intakes.
FISHING HOLE. You get into a real balancing act when plants and fish are managed together.
Researchers continue to investigate the best ways to use plants to enhance fish production. They are focusing on how much plant material is enough and what are the best kinds of plants. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Properly maintained pond vegetation can be beneficial. Submerged plants help create protective structures for small fish, which draw in the larger fish.
Plants can produce large amounts of oxygen using photosynthesis. Rushes, sedges and cattails around the fringe help control erosion while providing cover for fingerlings and minnows.
However, more than 15 to 20% plant coverage can create problems. Fish populations can become unbalanced. And even though plants produce oxygen, they also respire and remove oxygen from the water that surrounds them.
During summer months, this removal of oxygen from a pond can cause a fish kill, especially after a period of cloudy weather followed by a long, hot night.
