The first step to understanding how to maintain your pond is knowing your ponds 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 in your pond receives and the type of soil your pond was contructed from will determine how long your pond will stay in this stage. Generally your pond will begin to enter stage 2 in three to five years.

As your pond begins stage 2, excessive algaeblooms 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 requent 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 desgined to prevent growth because they will not eliminate the nutrients that cause weed and algae.