Bank Stabalization
All ponds over time begin to fill in due to erosion. Signs of erosion could be small ruts and valleys along the banks, exposed seep areas, or exposed bare ground. Steep slopes, loose soils, heavy foot traffic, and seasonal rains increase this erosion. Native beneficial planting helps hinder by stabilizing the banks and reducing the sedimentation that is unloaded in the main body of the pond.
Water Quality
Agriculture fields, livestock, and lawn fertilization can increase the nutrient load in a pond. An overabundance of nutrients in a pond is one of the most contributing factors to poor water quality and heavy algae blooms including noxious blue-green algaes. Placing plants along these areas help take up phosphorus and nitrogen thus making it less available for other unwanted growth such as algae.
Habitat
Having plants in the littoral zone of a pond is ideal for fish production and overall wildlife diversity. Most of a ponds activity is around vegetation in the littoral zone including aquatic insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and fish. It is widely accepted that a fishing pond should have at least 30% of its perimeter with beneficial plants.
Aesthetics
Lush foliage and colorful flowers...what else needs to be said? Whether it is a small water garden or a pond, having beautiful plants in and around the pond enhances the look and value of your investment. Native perennial vegetation planted in and around ponds have a high success rate and with good management will out compete invasive species. It is highly recommended that exotic plants be only planted in the lined water gardens for ease of maintenance and good stewardship.