The first step to understanding how to maintain your pond is knowing your pond's life cycle. The Life Cycle can be broken down into two basic stages. During stage 1, organic matter from plants, birds, animals and debris begins to accumulate in your pond. The nutrient load is low, resulting in minimal weed and algae growth. The amount of debris your pond receives and the type of soil your pond was constructed from will determine how long your pond will stay in this stage. Generally, your pond will remain in Stage 1 for three to five years.

As your pond begins Stage 2, excessive algae blooms and pond weeds become noticeable. Emergent plants, such as grasses and cattails, begin growing around your pond's edge. As Stage 2 continues the total nutrient load is increased resulting in more frequent and more severe weed and algae growth. When the Airmax® Ecosystem is not present and Mother Nature is allowed to take her course, chemical applications will be necessary during this stage. When chemicals are used correctly, they only provide a temporary fix to weed and algae growth. It is important to understand that chemicals are not designed to prevent growth because they will not eliminate the nutrients that cause weeds and algae.