Bill, I stocked Tom's pond, and it was Large-leaf Pondweed (Potomogeton amplifolius) that we put in. I believe that we also put in Eel Grass, aka Wild Celery (Vallisneria americana). I agree about the Chara keeping the algae in check, and I think Tom's pond will go through a natural process of maturing...it is a great pond with outstanding spring water flow.
Tom, I'd recommend spraying liquid Cutrine Plus on the surface patches. If it's a tough type, like Pithophora, you may need to mix in some Weedtrine-D or Reward. Don't spread granular Cutrine at this time, because it will drop down and hurt the Chara. If you'd like to hire a pro to apply it, I'd recommend Robert Burke, who replied above...he's a nice guy & will do a good job.
Did the lilies come up for you at the end of summer?
Mike Robinson
Keystone Hatcheries
