Just as the sun will go down in the west today, you WILL have aquatic vegetation. It's just a matter of what species will show up and when, and in what concentration.

Biologists say 10-to-15% coverage with native plants provides plenty of natural cover and oxygenates the water. Beyond that is where pond owners get themselves into trouble.

It's always a good idea to get an early start on vegetation control, but without knowing what plants will show up, I don't see much value in stocking grass carp. At least not yet.

Grass carp, for instance, can not handle cattails. So you might be spending your management budget in the wrong place.

Mark McDonald
Editor, Pond Boss